Dr. Massih Taybi
Founding Partner, Chairman
Massih Taybi Founding Partner, Chairman
Massih Tayebi LinkedIn
Dr. Massih Tayebi is Founding Partner and Chairman of the Bridgewest Group. Massih and his brother and Co-founder Masood, create novel businesses with leading-edge processes and technology. Inspired by deep tech, Massih incorporates AI with semiconductor tech and software platforms to enable disruptive new solutions. His vision for creating a better tomorrow drives much of the ideation and innovation success. Massih and his brother have received numerous awards including: the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the American Electronics Association High Technology Industry Recognition for Telecommunications, the San Diego Venture Capital Success Story, and the Coastline Foundation's Visionary of the Year. Massih earned his M.S., Ph.D. and post-doctoral while in the United Kingdom.

Massih actively supports several philanthropic causes. The Massih & Haleh Tayebi Annual Scholarship fund educates children around the world. He donates to causes benefiting underprivileged children and local and international cultural centers.

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Dr. Massih Taybi
Founding Partner, Chairman
Massih Taybi Founding Partner, Chairman
Massih Tayebi LinkedIn
Dr. Massih Tayebi is Founding Partner and Chairman of the Bridgewest Group. Massih and his brother and Co-founder Masood, create novel businesses with leading-edge processes and technology. Inspired by deep tech, Massih incorporates AI with semiconductor tech and software platforms to enable disruptive new solutions. His vision for creating a better tomorrow drives much of the ideation and innovation success. Massih and his brother have received numerous awards including: the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the American Electronics Association High Technology Industry Recognition for Telecommunications, the San Diego Venture Capital Success Story, and the Coastline Foundation's Visionary of the Year. Massih earned his M.S., Ph.D. and post-doctoral while in the United Kingdom.

Massih actively supports several philanthropic causes. The Massih & Haleh Tayebi Annual Scholarship fund educates children around the world. He donates to causes benefiting underprivileged children and local and international cultural centers.

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Dr. Masood Tayebi
Founding Partner and CEO of Bridgewest Group
Masood Tayebi Founding Partner, CEO
Masood Tayebi LinkedIn
Dr. Masood Tayebi is a Founding Partner and CEO of the Bridgewest Group. With his expertise in international business strategy and global operations, Masood is instrumental in leading start-up firms in Biotech and Hitech through market development to outsized success.

Masood's passion for developing sound strategy and agile operations fuels the success of portfolio companies. Prior to Bridgewest Group, Masood and his brother founded Wireless Facilities, Inc., which helped to enhance the lives of billions of people in over 60 countries through pioneering advancements in wireless connectivity infrastructure.

Masood is active in several philanthropic activities. Together with his wife Surinder, the couple founded the Lotus Children Foundation. Additionally, they support local first responders, education, housing, and service member families. Masood enjoys advising and teaching entrepreneurs through one-on-one sessions, as well as volunteering for speaking engagements at various conferences and events.

Masood and his brother received the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the American Electronics Association High Technology Industry Recognition Award for Telecommunications, the Venture Capital Success Story Award by the San Diego Venture Group, and the Visionary of the Year Award by the Coastline Foundation.

Masood earned his M.S. in Electronics Engineering and Ph.D. in mobile radio propagation while in the United Kingdom.

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Dr. Masood Tayebi
Founding Partner and CEO of Bridgewest Group
Masood Tayebi Founding Partner CEO
Masood Tayebi LinkedIn
Dr. Masood Tayebi is a Founding Partner and CEO of the Bridgewest Group. With his expertise in international business strategy and global operations, Masood is instrumental in leading start-up firms in Biotech and Hitech through market development to outsized success.

Masood's passion for developing sound strategy and agile operations fuels the success of portfolio companies. Prior to Bridgewest Group, Masood and his brother founded Wireless Facilities, Inc., which helped to enhance the lives of billions of people in over 60 countries through pioneering advancements in wireless connectivity infrastructure.

Masood is active in several philanthropic activities. Together with his wife Surinder, the couple founded the Lotus Children Foundation. Additionally, they support local first responders, education, housing, and service member families. Masood enjoys advising and teaching entrepreneurs through one-on-one sessions, as well as volunteering for speaking engagements at various conferences and events.

Masood and his brother received the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Ellis Island Medal of Honor, the American Electronics Association High Technology Industry Recognition Award for Telecommunications, the Venture Capital Success Story Award by the San Diego Venture Group, and the Visionary of the Year Award by the Coastline Foundation.

Masood earned his M.S. in Electronics Engineering and Ph.D. in mobile radio propagation while in the United Kingdom.

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Adam Gickling
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at the Bridgewest Group
Adam Gickling Executive VP
Adam Gickling LinkedIn
Adam Gickling is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at the Bridgewest Group. Adam oversees all aspects of corporate finance and operational strategy. Additionally, he is an active contributor to the operational success of the Bridgewest Group's portfolio of companies. Through his business acumen and servant leadership style, he fuels a strong multi-talented organizational structure. With great resourcefulness and a can-do employee outlook, his operational teams (finance, accounting, legal, tax, human resource) empower entrepreneurs to do what they do best - transform a great idea into a powerful solution.

Adam joined Bridgewest in 2000 and has served as an operating CFO for several of the Group's private equity portfolio companies. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the portfolio companies through his extensive first-hand operational M&A and capital raising experience. Adam received his BS in Commerce from the University of Virginia and his MBA from UCLA's Anderson School of Management.

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Adam Gickling
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at the Bridgewest Group
Adam Gickling Executive VP
Adam Gickling LinkedIn
Adam Gickling is Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at the Bridgewest Group. Adam oversees all aspects of corporate finance and operational strategy. Additionally, he is an active contributor to the operational success of the Bridgewest Group's portfolio of companies. Through his business acumen and servant leadership style, he fuels a strong multi-talented organizational structure. With great resourcefulness and a can-do employee outlook, his operational teams (finance, accounting, legal, tax, human resource) empower entrepreneurs to do what they do best - transform a great idea into a powerful solution.

Adam joined Bridgewest in 2000 and has served as an operating CFO for several of the Group's private equity portfolio companies. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the portfolio companies through his extensive first-hand operational M&A and capital raising experience. Adam received his BS in Commerce from the University of Virginia and his MBA from UCLA's Anderson School of Management.

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Saum Vahdat
CEO, Bridgewest Ventures
Saum Vahdat CEO
Saum Vahdat LinkedIn
Saum Vahdat is CEO of Bridgewest Ventures where he leads investment strategies and incubation programs, including BVNZ's partnership initiative with the Government of New Zealand.

With hands-on oversight and pragmatic management methodologies, Saum guides portfolio companies through the common challenges faced by young businesses, to accelerate and improve commercialization timelines. Utilizing a core team culture that capitalizes on development platforms and expertise ecosystems within BV and BVNZ, entrepreneurs, CEOs and partners actively share best practices and business relationships, resulting in heightened product impact and economic success.

Previously, Saum worked with Johnson & Johnson's venture capital platform, assisting with commercialization strategy formation and market research. Prior to J&J, Saum led financial analysis and business development for a global real estate investment firm. Saum graduated from Cornell University with an MBA focused on Finance and is an active member of the San Diego Chapter of Young Presidents Organization (YPO).

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Saum Vahdat
CEO, Bridgewest Ventures
Saum Vahdat CEO
Saum Vahdat LinkedIn
Saum Vahdat is CEO of Bridgewest Ventures where he leads investment strategies and incubation programs, including BVNZ's partnership initiative with the Government of New Zealand.

With hands-on oversight and pragmatic management methodologies, Saum guides portfolio companies through the common challenges faced by young businesses, to accelerate and improve commercialization timelines. Utilizing a core team culture that capitalizes on development platforms and expertise ecosystems within BV and BVNZ, entrepreneurs, CEOs and partners actively share best practices and business relationships, resulting in heightened product impact and economic success.

Previously, Saum worked with Johnson & Johnson's venture capital platform, assisting with commercialization strategy formation and market research. Prior to J&J, Saum led financial analysis and business development for a global real estate investment firm. Saum graduated from Cornell University with an MBA focused on Finance and is an active member of the San Diego Chapter of Young Presidents Organization (YPO).

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Chandima Mendis
Global Head of Fixed Income
Chandima Mendis
Chandima Mendis LinkedIn
Chandima Mendis is the Head of Bridgewest Group's Fixed Income Portfolio Management business and Capital Markets, focusing on bonds, commodities and currencies. Chandima is responsible for Treasury management and liquidity activities of the Group, as well as coordinating capital market and M&A activities with investment banks and investors. He actively works with the CEOs and business leaders of Bridgewest Group's portfolio companies to strategize and guide them in their growth and capital market activities.

Chandima has over 20 years of experience in institutional portfolio management. He previously worked for several international asset managers, including AXA Investment Managers and Fortis. Prior, Chandima worked as an economist at the International Monetary Fund in Washington DC. He graduated with a Doctorate in Economics from the University of Oxford.

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Chandima Mendis
Global Head of Fixed Income
Chandima Mendis
Chandima Mendis LinkedIn
Chandima Mendis is the Head of Bridgewest Group's Fixed Income Portfolio Management business and Capital Markets, focusing on bonds, commodities and currencies. Chandima is responsible for Treasury management and liquidity activities of the Group, as well as coordinating capital market and M&A activities with investment banks and investors. He actively works with the CEOs and business leaders of Bridgewest Group's portfolio companies to strategize and guide them in their growth and capital market activities.

Chandima has over 20 years of experience in institutional portfolio management. He previously worked for several international asset managers, including AXA Investment Managers and Fortis. Prior, Chandima worked as an economist at the International Monetary Fund in Washington DC. He graduated with a Doctorate in Economics from the University of Oxford.

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Jennifer Brown
General Counsel Bridgewest Group
Jennifer Brown
Jennifer Brown LinkedIn
Jennifer Brown is General Counsel at Bridgewest Group. She takes pride in serving as a trusted advisor to the Group’s businesses and assisting in transactions, commercial matters and risk management. She prides herself in her ability to understand the business team’s goals, drive creative win-win solutions and build strong internal and external relationships. Her experience across various industries and in multiple substantive areas aligns well within the Bridgewest Group’s portfolio companies and investments.

Jennifer earned her law degree and undergraduate business degree from The University of Texas at Austin. Prior to joining Bridgewest Group, Jennifer served as General Counsel of Farmer Bros. Co., where she was responsible for the legal, corporate governance, risk management and real estate functions. She previously served as a corporate, securities and M&A attorney at Jones Day and Baker & McKenzie.

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Jennifer Brown
General Counsel Bridgewest Group
Jennifer Brown
Jennifer Brown LinkedIn
Jennifer Brown is General Counsel at Bridgewest Group. She takes pride in serving as a trusted advisor to the Group’s businesses and assisting in transactions, commercial matters and risk management. She prides herself in her ability to understand the business team’s goals, drive creative win-win solutions and build strong internal and external relationships. Her experience across various industries and in multiple substantive areas aligns well within the Bridgewest Group’s portfolio companies and investments.

Jennifer earned her law degree and undergraduate business degree from The University of Texas at Austin. Prior to joining Bridgewest Group, Jennifer served as General Counsel of Farmer Bros. Co., where she was responsible for the legal, corporate governance, risk management and real estate functions. She previously served as a corporate, securities and M&A attorney at Jones Day and Baker & McKenzie.

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Rees Ward
Operating Partner and General Manager Bridgewest Group New Zealand
Rees Ward
Rees Ward LinkedIn
Rees Ward is Operating Partner and General Manager Bridgewest Group New Zealand. Rees leads the administrative and operational functions and plays an integral role in advancing New Zealand portfolio companies, the technology incubator and the real estate portfolio. His diverse experience in legal, commercial and public sector backgrounds, combined with his genuine passion for New Zealand and positivity, stands him in good stead to inspire and support key initiatives, executives, entrepreneurs, stakeholders and entities. Be kind, be present and persist, are core to the way Rees lives his life and encourages team spirit. He enjoys leading by example, connecting people, and facilitating the ongoing growth of teams, entrepreneurs and businesses to being as successful as possible.

Rees joined in 2017 and has worked to grow Bridgewest Group's activities, investments and operations across New Zealand. Previously, Rees was the founding Director of the Wellington ICT Graduate School and New Zealand's Deputy Consul General to Western USA based in Los Angeles. Rees gained his Bachelor of Laws (L.L.B.) and Bachelor of Commerce and Administration (B.C.A. specializing in Management, Marketing & Japanese) degrees from Victoria University of Wellington.

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Rees Ward
Operating Partner and General Manager Bridgewest Group New Zealand
Rees Ward
Rees Ward LinkedIn
Rees Ward is Operating Partner and General Manager Bridgewest Group New Zealand. Rees leads the administrative and operational functions and plays an integral role in advancing New Zealand portfolio companies, the technology incubator and the real estate portfolio. His diverse experience in legal, commercial and public sector backgrounds, combined with his genuine passion for New Zealand and positivity, stands him in good stead to inspire and support key initiatives, executives, entrepreneurs, stakeholders and entities. Be kind, be present and persist, are core to the way Rees lives his life and encourages team spirit. He enjoys leading by example, connecting people, and facilitating the ongoing growth of teams, entrepreneurs and businesses to being as successful as possible.

Rees joined in 2017 and has worked to grow Bridgewest Group's activities, investments and operations across New Zealand. Previously, Rees was the founding Director of the Wellington ICT Graduate School and New Zealand's Deputy Consul General to Western USA based in Los Angeles. Rees gained his Bachelor of Laws (L.L.B.) and Bachelor of Commerce and Administration (B.C.A. specializing in Management, Marketing & Japanese) degrees from Victoria University of Wellington.

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Aleksander Raic
Global VP of AI Bridgewest Group
Aleksander Raic
Aleksander Raic LinkedIn
Aleksandar Raic is the Global VP of IT at Bridgewest Group, responsible for leading and orchestrating the Group's AI technology initiatives across its portfolio companies. He is also a Member of the Management Board of Pontis Technology, a fast-growing Bridgewest IT affiliate in Croatia.

He joined Bridgewest Group from Infobip, a global cloud communication leader, where he contributed to the company's growth by leading the global People Strategy, managing M&A integration, and establishing an AI team that developed innovative AI products such as the AI Assistant solution, enhancing both internal processes and Infobip's product offerings.

Raic is a Computer Science Engineer and holds an MBA and an MSc from the IEDC-Bled School of Management, where he received an Alumni Achievement Award in 2023. Known for his optimistic and international mindset, Raić promotes innovation in strategy development and believes in leveraging diverse cultures and knowledge to improve business processes and performance. His extensive experience includes leading large IT organizations, business transformation, and change management projects. He emphasizes the importance of motivated people and a focused strategy in successfully utilizing AI and IT for business innovation.

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Aleksander Raic
Global VP of AI Bridgewest Group
Aleksander Raic
Aleksander Raic LinkedIn
Aleksandar Raic is the Global VP of IT at Bridgewest Group, responsible for leading and orchestrating the Group's AI technology initiatives across its portfolio companies. He is also a Member of the Management Board of Pontis Technology, a fast-growing Bridgewest IT affiliate in Croatia.

He joined Bridgewest Group from Infobip, a global cloud communication leader, where he contributed to the company's growth by leading the global People Strategy, managing M&A integration, and establishing an AI team that developed innovative AI products such as the AI Assistant solution, enhancing both internal processes and Infobip's product offerings.

Raic is a Computer Science Engineer and holds an MBA and an MSc from the IEDC-Bled School of Management, where he received an Alumni Achievement Award in 2023. Known for his optimistic and international mindset, Raić promotes innovation in strategy development and believes in leveraging diverse cultures and knowledge to improve business processes and performance. His extensive experience includes leading large IT organizations, business transformation, and change management projects. He emphasizes the importance of motivated people and a focused strategy in successfully utilizing AI and IT for business innovation.

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John (JR) Robson
General Manager Bridgewest Ventures, Managing Director BioOra
John (JR) Robson
John (JR) Robson LinkedIn
John (JR) Robson is the General Manager of Bridgewest Ventures NZ and he is responsible for the early stage deep technology investment portfolio in New Zealand.

JR is a finance and investment professional with over 25 years of investment experience across global equity, bond, and treasury/cash management. He has been intimately involved in the technology start-up community in New Zealand since 2008 through numerous early-stage software companies as both an executive and non-executive director. JR regularly writes and speaks about technology in a number of forums and is an avid futurist.

JR's areas of expertise are: Economics, Risk & Compliance, Technology Strategy, Risk Management, Financial Governance, Board Governance, Business Management, Investment Strategy, Financial Analysis, Venture Capital, Private Equity, Debt and Equity structuring.

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John (JR) Robson
General Manager Bridgewest Ventures, Managing Director BioOra
John (JR) Robson
John (JR) Robson LinkedIn
John (JR) Robson is the General Manager of Bridgewest Ventures NZ and he is responsible for the early stage deep technology investment portfolio in New Zealand.

JR is a finance and investment professional with over 25 years of investment experience across global equity, bond, and treasury/cash management. He has been intimately involved in the technology start-up community in New Zealand since 2008 through numerous early-stage software companies as both an executive and non-executive director. JR regularly writes and speaks about technology in a number of forums and is an avid futurist.

JR's areas of expertise are: Economics, Risk & Compliance, Technology Strategy, Risk Management, Financial Governance, Board Governance, Business Management, Investment Strategy, Financial Analysis, Venture Capital, Private Equity, Debt and Equity structuring.

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Lisa Carswell
General Manager Bridgewest Finance New Zealand
Lisa Carswell
Lisa Carswell LinkedIn
Lisa Carswell is General Manager of Bridgewest Finance New Zealand with over 15 years of specialized experience in property investment and development funding. Her expertise spans managing loan portfolios ranging from $3 million to $100 million across New Zealand. Lisa has a profound understanding of funding strategies and development processes which are engrained in her extensive tenure as a lender in the sector.

Prior, Lisa built a notable career at two major banks, including a managerial position at BNZ Property Finance. During her tenure, she successfully sourced and managed substantial funding projects for some of New Zealand's most renowned commercial property developers and investors. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Business in International Business, and a New Zealand Diploma in Business from Auckland University of Technology.

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Lisa Carswell
General Manager Bridgewest Finance New Zealand
Lisa Carswell
Lisa Carswell LinkedIn
Lisa Carswell is General Manager of Bridgewest Finance New Zealand with over 15 years of specialized experience in property investment and development funding. Her expertise spans managing loan portfolios ranging from $3 million to $100 million across New Zealand. Lisa has a profound understanding of funding strategies and development processes which are engrained in her extensive tenure as a lender in the sector.

Prior, Lisa built a notable career at two major banks, including a managerial position at BNZ Property Finance. During her tenure, she successfully sourced and managed substantial funding projects for some of New Zealand's most renowned commercial property developers and investors. Lisa holds a Bachelor of Business in International Business, and a New Zealand Diploma in Business from Auckland University of Technology.

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Nadia Tayebi
Portfolio Manager at Bridgewest Finance Australia
Nadia Tayebi
Nadia Tayebi LinkedIn
Nadia Tayebi is Portfolio Manager at Bridgewest Finance Australia. Nadia enjoys discovering new opportunities stemming from market research, data analysis, and process improvement. As an avid learner, she welcomes the vast knowledge of SMEs across Bridgewest Group eco-community in her quest for keen insights.

Nadia worked previously with a Bridgewest Group start-up managing operations and working with the tech team on product builds. Nadia has a BA in Anthropology and Business Finance from the University of Southern California.

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Nadia Tayebi
Portfolio Manager at Bridgewest Finance Australia
Nadia Tayebi
Nadia Tayebi LinkedIn
Nadia Tayebi is Portfolio Manager at Bridgewest Finance Australia. Nadia enjoys discovering new opportunities stemming from market research, data analysis, and process improvement. As an avid learner, she welcomes the vast knowledge of SMEs across Bridgewest Group eco-community in her quest for keen insights.

Nadia worked previously with a Bridgewest Group start-up managing operations and working with the tech team on product builds. Nadia has a BA in Anthropology and Business Finance from the University of Southern California.

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Laxman Settipalli
General Manager BCM India Private Limited
Laxman Settipalli
Laxman Settipalli LinkedIn
Laxman Settipalli is General Manager of BCM India Private Limited, Bridgewest Group's Global Capability Center (GCC), and the driving force behind the Center's strategic and operational excellence. Through his guidance, his GCC teams spur growth and innovation for portfolio companies, with operational resources and expertise.

Laxman's business acumen spans several areas including establishing and managing GCCs, overseeing operations, software development & delivery, program management, and championing change management initiatives. Laxman is recognized as a seasoned Techno-functional, organizational and Agile transformation leader with over 20 years' experience. He brings a global perspective, inspiring novel thinking and a vivacious team culture that spans throughout his organization. Laxman's recipe for a creating a workplace that people love is empathy, collaboration, and joy.

Laxman received an MBA (Leadership and Change Management) from Indian Institute of Management Raipur (IIM), and an MS in Information Systems and BS in Computers from Kakatiya University.

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Laxman Settipalli
General Manager BCM India Private Limited
Laxman Settipalli
Laxman Settipalli LinkedIn
Laxman Settipalli is General Manager of BCM India Private Limited, Bridgewest Group's Global Capability Center (GCC), and the driving force behind the Center's strategic and operational excellence. Through his guidance, his GCC teams spur growth and innovation for portfolio companies, with operational resources and expertise.

Laxman's business acumen spans several areas including establishing and managing GCCs, overseeing operations, software development & delivery, program management, and championing change management initiatives. Laxman is recognized as a seasoned Techno-functional, organizational and Agile transformation leader with over 20 years' experience. He brings a global perspective, inspiring novel thinking and a vivacious team culture that spans throughout his organization. Laxman's recipe for a creating a workplace that people love is empathy, collaboration, and joy.

Laxman received an MBA (Leadership and Change Management) from Indian Institute of Management Raipur (IIM), and an MS in Information Systems and BS in Computers from Kakatiya University.

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David Hewit
Director, Capital Markets Bridgewest Group
David Hewit
David Hewit LinkedIn
David Hewit is Director of Capital Markets at the Bridgewest Group. He is responsible for capital investments and raising external capital in support of portfolio companies. He actively works with the management teams of portfolio companies to develop and execute their capital markets strategies and support their strategic initiatives. David also assists with business development activities and provides support and investment advice to the Executive Leadership Team of Bridgewest Group.

David has fifteen years of experience in the investment management and finance industries. Prior to joining Bridgewest Group David was an investment research analyst focused primarily on the tech sector. Previously he worked for several asset management firms including Newbrook Capital, Shannon River Partners, and Duquesne Capital Management. David graduated with a BS in Finance from Lehigh University.

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David Hewit
Director, Capital Markets Bridgewest Group
David Hewit
David Hewit LinkedIn
David Hewit is Director of Capital Markets at the Bridgewest Group. He is responsible for capital investments and raising external capital in support of portfolio companies. He actively works with the management teams of portfolio companies to develop and execute their capital markets strategies and support their strategic initiatives. David also assists with business development activities and provides support and investment advice to the Executive Leadership Team of Bridgewest Group.

David has fifteen years of experience in the investment management and finance industries. Prior to joining Bridgewest Group David was an investment research analyst focused primarily on the tech sector. Previously he worked for several asset management firms including Newbrook Capital, Shannon River Partners, and Duquesne Capital Management. David graduated with a BS in Finance from Lehigh University.

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Meera Mulchandani, CA, CFA
Director, Finance & Accounting
Meera Mulchandani, CA, CFA
Meera Mulchandani, CA, CFA LinkedIn
As Director of Finance & Accounting, Meera Mulchandani leads the finance team at the Bridgewest Group. She oversees financial planning & analysis, corporate strategy, tax & risk management, budgeting, and forecasting functions for the portfolio companies of Bridgewest Group. With a can-do attitude, a penchant to acquire knowledge, and a focus on streamlining processes, she enables companies to respond to diverse and challenging business environments with agility. Stemming from her democratic leadership style, drive towards efficiency, and ability to resolve complex problems, she has a proven track record for steering organizations through accelerated growth.

Prior to joining Bridgewest Group, Meera had extensive experience in real estate financing, equity and credit markets, and domestic and international investing. Meera is a Chartered Accountant from India and a CFA Charterholder.

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Meera Mulchandani, CA, CFA
Director, Finance & Accounting
Meera Mulchandani, CA, CFA
Meera Mulchandani, CA, CFA LinkedIn
As Director of Finance & Accounting, Meera Mulchandani leads the finance team at the Bridgewest Group. She oversees financial planning & analysis, corporate strategy, tax & risk management, budgeting, and forecasting functions for the portfolio companies of Bridgewest Group. With a can-do attitude, a penchant to acquire knowledge, and a focus on streamlining processes, she enables companies to respond to diverse and challenging business environments with agility. Stemming from her democratic leadership style, drive towards efficiency, and ability to resolve complex problems, she has a proven track record for steering organizations through accelerated growth.

Prior to joining Bridgewest Group, Meera had extensive experience in real estate financing, equity and credit markets, and domestic and international investing. Meera is a Chartered Accountant from India and a CFA Charterholder.

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Chelsea Wild
Director of Human Resources Bridgewest Group
Chelsea Wild
Chelsea Wild LinkedIn
Chelsea Wild, Director of Human Resources at Bridgewest Group, has over 20 years of progressive human resources experience. She oversees all aspects of HR including strategic planning, performance management, staffing, federal and state law compliance, employee benefits, employee engagement, payroll, training and development, and management coaching. Chelsea uses her strong HR background and a blend of experiences to affect positive change in the organization, and to develop an HR team with the right infrastructure to effectively support rapid business growth.

Chelsea has managed HR in small to mid-size companies, spanning various industries including medical device manufacturing, aerospace, and hospitality. Chelsea earned her BS in Human Services Management from the University of Phoenix.

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Chelsea Wild
Director of Human Resources Bridgewest Group
Chelsea Wild
Chelsea Wild LinkedIn
Chelsea Wild, Director of Human Resources at Bridgewest Group, has over 20 years of progressive human resources experience. She oversees all aspects of HR including strategic planning, performance management, staffing, federal and state law compliance, employee benefits, employee engagement, payroll, training and development, and management coaching. Chelsea uses her strong HR background and a blend of experiences to affect positive change in the organization, and to develop an HR team with the right infrastructure to effectively support rapid business growth.

Chelsea has managed HR in small to mid-size companies, spanning various industries including medical device manufacturing, aerospace, and hospitality. Chelsea earned her BS in Human Services Management from the University of Phoenix.

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Evan Wilson
Global Head of Real Estate Bridgewest Group
Evan Wilson
Evan Wilson LinkedIn
Evan Wilson is the Global Head of Real Estate at Bridgewest Group. Evan oversees the group's diverse real estate portfolio which includes commercial office, life science and residential properties. With thorough market research and data analysis, plus highly-honed revenue forecasting and expense management skills, Evan maximizes capital deployments while maintaining cash flow. Evan fosters strong relationships with portfolio companies, property managers, leasing agents, brokers, investors and colleagues alike by being knowledgeable, helpful and accurate. His guiding principles, which he instills in his team, emboldens them to achieve positive outcomes and desired investment returns.

Prior to joining Bridgewest Group, Evan oversaw his own commercial real estate brokerage responsible for sourcing investment opportunities in several markets across the country. Evan received his BS in Business from Chapman University.

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Evan Wilson
Global Head of Real Estate Bridgewest Group
Evan Wilson
Evan Wilson LinkedIn
Evan Wilson is the Global Head of Real Estate at Bridgewest Group. Evan oversees the group's diverse real estate portfolio which includes commercial office, life science and residential properties. With thorough market research and data analysis, plus highly-honed revenue forecasting and expense management skills, Evan maximizes capital deployments while maintaining cash flow. Evan fosters strong relationships with portfolio companies, property managers, leasing agents, brokers, investors and colleagues alike by being knowledgeable, helpful and accurate. His guiding principles, which he instills in his team, emboldens them to achieve positive outcomes and desired investment returns.

Prior to joining Bridgewest Group, Evan oversaw his own commercial real estate brokerage responsible for sourcing investment opportunities in several markets across the country. Evan received his BS in Business from Chapman University.

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Danielle Guidotti, CPA
Controller Bridgewest Group
Danielle Guidotti, CPA
Danielle Guidotti, CPA LinkedIn
Danielle Guidotti is Corporate Controller for Bridgewest Group. Danielle oversees financial reporting for the majority of portfolio companies, as well as manages the accounting team. In addition to a strong background in taxation and corporate accounting across multiple business units, her expertise is in processes and business integrations. Danielle is always looking for ways to bring system processes to life and to streamline efficiencies for optimal growth. Learning new things, people and culture is integral to her personal and professional life.

Previously, Danielle was Controller at Opterra Solutions, Inc. Danielle graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor's degree in business administration, and a major in accounting.

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Danielle Guidotti, CPA
Controller Bridgewest Group
Danielle Guidotti, CPA
Danielle Guidotti, CPA LinkedIn
Danielle Guidotti is Corporate Controller for Bridgewest Group. Danielle oversees financial reporting for the majority of portfolio companies, as well as manages the accounting team. In addition to a strong background in taxation and corporate accounting across multiple business units, her expertise is in processes and business integrations. Danielle is always looking for ways to bring system processes to life and to streamline efficiencies for optimal growth. Learning new things, people and culture is integral to her personal and professional life.

Previously, Danielle was Controller at Opterra Solutions, Inc. Danielle graduated from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor's degree in business administration, and a major in accounting.

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Kate de Ridder
Investment Director Bridgewest Ventures
Kathryn de Ridder
Kathryn de Ridder LinkedIn
As Investment Director for Bridgewest Ventures, Kate de Ridder is responsible for the Investment team and portfolio expansion of Bridgewest Ventures. In addition, Kate actively offers guidance to multiple start-ups as an operator and in board positions.

Kate transitioned to venture capital in 2019 following a noteworthy career as an Aerospace Engineer, leading large teams to support airborne defense force missions across the globe and development of capabilities for various theatres. She has a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Electronic) from University of Canterbury, NZ and an MSc (Aerospace Vehicle Design) from Cranfield University, UK.

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Kate de Ridder
Investment Director Bridgewest Ventures
Kathryn de Ridder
Kathryn de Ridder LinkedIn
As Investment Director for Bridgewest Ventures, Kate de Ridder is responsible for the Investment team and portfolio expansion of Bridgewest Ventures. In addition, Kate actively offers guidance to multiple start-ups as an operator and in board positions.

Kate transitioned to venture capital in 2019 following a noteworthy career as an Aerospace Engineer, leading large teams to support airborne defense force missions across the globe and development of capabilities for various theatres. She has a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Electronic) from University of Canterbury, NZ and an MSc (Aerospace Vehicle Design) from Cranfield University, UK.

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Darja Nelson
Investment Director Bridgewest Ventures
Darja Nelson
Darja Nelson LinkedIn
Darja Nelson is Commercialization Manager for Biotech at Bridgewest Ventures. She leverages her background in business, intellectual property (IP), science, and as a deep tech founder, to guide start-ups from incubation through commercialization. Her keen appreciation for amazing science and technology has taken her on several exciting journeys from early-stage deep tech IP commercialization to founder to Chief Commercialization Officer.

Darja has a Master's in Biomedical Science and Bioscience Enterprise from the University of Auckland. She has worked in business and science roles across the New Zealand University and research ecosystem with expertise in commercialization strategy, capital raising and company growth.

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Darja Nelson
Investment Director Bridgewest Ventures
Darja Nelson
Darja Nelson LinkedIn
Darja Nelson is Commercialization Manager for Biotech at Bridgewest Ventures. She leverages her background in business, intellectual property (IP), science, and as a deep tech founder, to guide start-ups from incubation through commercialization. Her keen appreciation for amazing science and technology has taken her on several exciting journeys from early-stage deep tech IP commercialization to founder to Chief Commercialization Officer.

Darja has a Master's in Biomedical Science and Bioscience Enterprise from the University of Auckland. She has worked in business and science roles across the New Zealand University and research ecosystem with expertise in commercialization strategy, capital raising and company growth.

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Jian Kang
Investment Manager, Bridgewest Ventures
Jian Kang
Jian Kang LinkedIn
Jian is the Investment Manager at Bridgewest Ventures. With a robust background from her tenure at McKinsey & Company and the China venture capital firm 5Y Capital, she brings a wealth of expertise to enhance project development and portfolio operations.

Jian is passionate about the potential of AI and deep tech, and is dedicated to turning this vision into reality. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Tsinghua University and a Master’s degree in Health Data Science from Harvard University.

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Jian Kang
Investment Manager, Bridgewest Ventures
Jian Kang
Jian Kang LinkedIn
Jian is the Investment Manager at Bridgewest Ventures. With a robust background from her tenure at McKinsey & Company and the China venture capital firm 5Y Capital, she brings a wealth of expertise to enhance project development and portfolio operations.

Jian is passionate about the potential of AI and deep tech, and is dedicated to turning this vision into reality. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from Tsinghua University and a Master’s degree in Health Data Science from Harvard University.

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our team

Executive Team

Dr. Massih Tayebi Founding Partner
Dr. Massih Tayebi
Founding Partner, Chairman
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Dr. Masood Tayebi Founding Partner
Dr. Masood Tayebi
Founding Partner, CEO
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Adam Gickling Executive VP, COO
Adam Gickling
Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer
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Saum Vahdat CEO, Bridgewest Ventures
Saum Vahdat
CEO, Bridgewest Ventures
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Chandima Mendis Global Head of Fixed Income
Chandima Mendis
Global Head of Fixed Income
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Jennifer Brown General Counsel
Jennifer Brown
General Counsel
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Rees Ward Operating Partner
Rees Ward
Operating Partner and General Manager Bridgewest Group New Zealand
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Evan Wilson Global Head of Real Estate
Evan Wilson
Global Head of Real Estate
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Aleksander Raic Global VP of AI
Aleksander Raic
Global VP of AI
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David Hewit Director
David Hewit
Director, Capital Markets
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John Robson General Manager
John (JR) Robson
General Manager Bridgewest Ventures, Managing Director BioOra
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Laxman Settipalli General Manager
Laxman Settipalli
General Manager BCM India Private Limited
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Lisa Carswell General Manager
Lisa Carswell
General Manager Bridgewest Finance New Zealand
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Meera Mulchandani Director
Meera Mulchandani, CA, CFA
Director, Finance & Accounting
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Chelsea Wild Director
Chelsea Wild
Director, Human Resources
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Kate de Ridder Investment Director
Kate de Ridder
Investment Director, Bridgewest Ventures
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Darja Nelson Manager
Darja Nelson
Commercialization Manager Bridgewest Ventures
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Jian Kang Investment Manager
Jian Kang
Investment Manager, Bridgewest Ventures
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Nadia Tayebi Portfolio Manager
Nadia Tayebi
Portfolio Manager
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Danielle Guidotti Corporate Controller
Danielle Guidotti
Corporate Controller
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