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Andy Grosso
Founder, Fortra Search. We help VC firms build Executive Sales and revenue-driving teams for their portfolio companies. We are Headhunters.
Professional Background
Andy Grosso is a seasoned executive search professional with extensive experience in recruiting top-tier sales and management teams for venture-backed companies. As the Founder of Fortra Search, Andy has established a firm that specializes in aligning portfolio companies with exceptional talent, particularly focusing on executive sales positions and revenue-driving roles. His dedication to excellence in the recruitment landscape has positioned Fortra Search as a leader in the industry, adept at bridging the gap between innovative technology firms and high-caliber executive talent.
Prior to launching Fortra Search, Andy spent eight successful years at Riviera Partners, where he further honed his executive search skills and deepened his expertise in technology markets. His remarkable journey spans over two decades in technology sales and management, demonstrating an extraordinary ability to drive revenue and build effective teams from the ground up.
Early Career and Achievements
Andy's sales acumen is substantiated by an impressive track record that showcases his ability to consistently exceed performance metrics. At Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC), Andy was ranked 11th among over 800 sales representatives during his tenure, a testament to his skills and dedication. He played a crucial role in driving revenue from $200 million to over $800 million, establishing PTC as the fifth largest software company worldwide.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to Kana Communications (KANA), where he joined as the 20th employee and was among their first sales hires. Here, Andy's performance was nothing short of exceptional—he maintained the status of top sales performer for three consecutive years, ultimately serving as the number one Regional Director. Under his leadership, the company’s revenues skyrocketed from start-up levels to over $150 million, marking KANA as one of the top ten most successful IPOs of 1999. These accomplishments underline Andy's strategic mind and his impactful leadership within the competitive technology landscape.
Furthermore, Andy has contributed to the success of other notable firms such as Endeca Technology, Proofpoint, and Vericept, reinforcing his reputation as a highly competent sales and business development leader in the technology sector.
Education and Achievements
Andy Grosso's academic foundation plays a pivotal role in his success as a business leader. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in French and International Relations from Lake Forest College. This unique combination of studies has equipped Andy with a profound understanding of global markets and intercultural communication—skills that are invaluable in today’s interconnected business world.
His earlier education includes time spent at Williston North Hampton and Wayland High School, where he developed his foundational skills in leadership and teamwork, setting the stage for his later successes in executive leadership and sales.
Personal Interests and Community Engagement
When he's not engaged in dynamic discussions with venture capital partners or strategizing the perfect executive placement, Andy enjoys a fulfilling family life in Menlo Park, California. As a dedicated father to three daughters—Tessa, Reese, and Alyssa—he cherishes the time spent with family. Andy is also an avid golfer, finding joy and relaxation both on the course and through fly fishing, as well as traveling to explore new cultures and adventures. These personal endeavors speak to Andy's balanced approach to life, combining professional ambitions with personal passions that enrich his life experience.
Overall, Andy Grosso is a distinguished figure in the realm of executive search and technology sales, with a wealth of experience and a dedication to excellence that is evident in every aspect of his professional journey. His focus on working with venture capital firms to meet their unique talent acquisition needs demonstrates his commitment to fostering innovative growth within the tech industry.
Achievements:
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Over 32 consecutive quarters of exceeding sales targets
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Top sales performer for three consecutive years at Kana Communications
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Grew revenues at Parametric Technology Corporation from $200M to over $800M
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Contributed to Kana's revenue growth from zero to over $150M, leading to a successful IPO
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Ranked among the top sales representatives out of 800 at Parametric Technology Corporation
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Established a successful executive search firm catering to technology markets
