Member of GT since: June, 2012
Describe your involvement with the Greenberg Traurig Israel Practice Group: As Director of Global Emerging Growth Services, I lead an exciting program at GT geared exclusively for our start-up clients, and our Israel Practice Group is a key part of this program. I serve as an entrepreneur-in-residence and work closely with many Israeli clients to provide advice on the capital raising process, which includes strategy sessions, coaching on investor presentations, and help expanding US connections. I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of Israeli companies, as well as helping to organize about 15 Israel Venture and Strategic Partnering Conferences.
What should businesses be doing today to plan for successful cross-border work in 2016? A large part of my work is advice on how a start-up can best position itself to raise funds in the US. Although there are always some exceptions, generally Israeli companies need to establish a credible presence in the US, build a strong US team, and develop customers and strategic partners in the US. It is also important for the Israeli start-up to have a well-written, concise, and compelling investor presentation and executive summary. The materials should clearly communicate not only the problem being solved and how the technology addresses the problem, but also a well thought-out strategy for growth, including how the company will market and sell in the US. Being able to point to some achievements in attracting US customers and a realistic pipeline of potential customers is very helpful.
Most memorable moment as a professional: In 2003 I was chosen as the recipient of the Wharton Distinguished Alumna Award, as a result of my dedication to furthering the careers of women in business. In a similar vein, having the opportunity to help our early stage clients grow and succeed, whether they are led by men or women, makes every day at GT memorable for me. It is a great privilege to work with entrepreneurs from all over the world, and Israeli entrepreneurs always distinguish themselves with outstanding technology and impressive leadership.
Hobbies: As the mother of five children, I haven’t had a lot of time for hobbies, but I love anything on the water – swimming, boating, and kayaking to name a few. I also enjoy biking, walking, working out and travel. Listening to live music in small venues, especially jazz, is also a favorite. I have a friend who is playing in a jazz group in Israel, and it’s great to learn that Israel has a very active jazz scene.