The Lucent Perspective

The Product-to-Exit Playbook: Building, Selling, and Advising Tech Companies with Jamie Graves

Rebecca Hastings Season 2 Episode 37

Jamie Graves, a technology leader and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience, shares his journey from founding ZoneFox to his current role as an advisor and consultant in the tech industry. With a strong background in cybersecurity and AI, Jamie offers valuable insights on product management, leadership, and the evolving landscape of technology.

Key topics covered:

  • The evolution of AI in B2B environments
  • Product management challenges and best practices
  • Lessons learned from founding and selling a tech startup
  • Transitioning to advisory and board roles
  • The impact of AI on cybersecurity

Episode Highlights: 
[00:58] Jamie's background and recent experiences in various tech sectors 
[03:21] Key lessons learned from developing ZoneFox 
[05:47] The importance of documentation and preparation when selling a company 
[08:47] Strategies for achieving product-market fit 
[12:24] The role of AI in augmenting human capabilities in cybersecurity 
[16:46] Challenges in translating technical capabilities into business value 
[21:41] The evolution of product management roles as companies scale 
[25:54] Exciting applications of AI in cybersecurity
[32:18] Advice for CEOs and leaders preparing for company exits 
[37:12] Transitioning to advisory and non-executive roles 
[41:37] Leveraging board expertise and improving communication
[48:09] The potential impact of AI on board roles and decision-making 
[54:53] Tips for managing a portfolio career and staying current in tech

About Jamie Graves 
Jamie Graves is a technology leader and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience bringing cutting-edge products to market. He founded ZoneFox, an award-winning AI product and cybersecurity company that was acquired by Fortinet in 2018. Jamie has extensive experience in all stages of starting, building, growing, and selling technology businesses.

Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group

Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/

Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call

The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/

The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/

Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.