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Ray Blanchard
Creative Executive - Entrepreneur - 3x Ironman
Professional Background
Ray Blanchard is an extraordinary entrepreneur and seasoned executive known for his dynamic leadership and innovative strategies in the technology sector. As a CEO and founder, Ray has demonstrated an exceptional ability to forge high-impact partnerships, execute acquisitions, and make strategic investments across various enterprise software, cloud platforms, and mobility ventures. His professional journey is marked by a commitment to driving growth and innovation in all his endeavors.
In 2019, Ray joined Google, where he contributed significantly to corporate strategy and business development initiatives. Prior to this pivotal role, he held influential positions at major technology firms including Microsoft Azure, VMware, and SAP. His tenure at these organizations was characterized by his successful execution of strategic partnerships that ultimately transformed the tech landscape.
As the founding CEO of TrueDemand, Ray launched a mobile sales solution designed specifically for Fortune 500 companies. Under his leadership, TrueDemand garnered significant recognition and was eventually acquired by Acosta, the largest merchandising firm in the U.S., exemplifying Ray’s acumen in driving corporate growth through innovation.
Before embarking on this entrepreneurial journey, Ray was an Executive in Residence at Mayfield Fund, where he played a crucial role in defining and launching SAP’s Auto-ID Infrastructure, a project that earned the Wall Street Journal Innovation Award in 2003. Ray’s expertise extends back to his decade-long experience in investment banking, during which he sourced and executed over $8.1 billion in equity, debt, mergers, and acquisitions within the technology, media, and telecommunications sectors.
Education and Achievements
Ray Blanchard’s academic background is as distinguished as his professional career. He graduated with honors from Harvard University, where he pursued a degree in Economics while also demonstrating his athletic prowess by competing in the US Olympic Team Trials for TaeKwonDo. In addition to his formal education, Ray immersed himself in different cultures and languages, studying Mandarin at Beijing International Studies University, which has undoubtedly enriched his global business perspective.
Ray’s commitment to continuous learning is further exemplified by his studies in Economics and Parliamentary Reform at the prestigious Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) and his participation in Semester at Sea. These varied educational experiences have equipped him with a multifaceted view of global economics and international relations, making him a formidable force in any business setting.
His professional honors include receiving the Foreign Commercial Service Award from the US Embassy in Beijing, recognizing his exemplary service and contributions while working in China. Furthermore, Ray has authored multiple insightful articles for notable publications such as the Wall Street Journal and The US-China Business Review, covering crucial topics ranging from economic reforms to innovative technologies like RFID.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Ray has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead and innovate. His legacy includes building impactful partnerships, spearheading successful acquisitions, and investing in future-forward companies that drive technological advancement.
Some of Ray’s notable positions include:
- Fellow at Sapphire Ventures, LLC, where he continues to provide insights into venture capital and new technology trends.
- GCP Business Development at Google, focusing on strategic growth initiatives.
- Partner GM at Microsoft Azure, overseeing global engineering and business development efforts.
- Corporate VP of Global Strategic Technology Partners at VMware, where he played a key role in enhancing VMware’s ecosystem of technical alliances.
- Senior Director and Head of Global Strategic Technology Partners, steering VMware’s efforts to integrate various technology partners for superior customer solutions.
- Senior Director at SAP, where he led strategic business development for the Global Ecosystem & Partner Group, working closely with the Office of CEO.
In the realm of investment, Ray’s earlier positions include Vice President of TMT/International Equities at Saratoga Research & Investment Management, where he brought forward-thinking investment strategies to the forefront of telecom and media sectors. He also honed his skills in corporate finance with prominent firms such as J.P. Morgan and Morgan Stanley, where he focused on technology investment banking.
Aside from his corporate achievements, Ray is also a dedicated family man. He is the proud father of three children, who keep him grounded and humble, often sharing memorable family adventures through skiing, mountain biking, and swimming. Ray enjoys telling jokes in Mandarin, showcasing his love for languages and his ability to connect with diverse cultures.
In summary, Ray Blanchard’s extensive experience in corporate strategy, business development, and finance in the technology sector, combined with his educational achievements and leadership roles, solidifies his reputation as a leader and innovator. His journey is one defined by a proactive approach to business and a passion for learning, making him a true inspiration in the tech industry.
