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Serena Dayal
Investment Director at SoftBank Vision Fund
Serena Dayal is an accomplished Investment Director at SoftBank Investment Advisers, where she plays a significant role in the venture capital landscape, particularly focusing on late-stage consumer technology and innovative startups. She has a notable track record of investments in various sectors, including health, property technology, and media.
Educational Background and Early Career
Serena graduated from Princeton University in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Politics. She began her professional journey at Goldman Sachs, where she spent a decade in investment banking, ultimately rising to the position of Vice President. Following her tenure at Goldman Sachs, she transitioned to private equity as a Senior Vice President at Fortress Investment Group before joining SoftBank in 2019.14
Role at SoftBank
At SoftBank, Serena is recognized for her strategic investments in high-potential companies. She serves on the boards of several notable firms, including Roofstock, Forward, Picsart, and Standard Cognition. Her expertise has been instrumental in guiding these companies through significant growth phases, contributing to their success as unicorns—startups valued at over $1 billion.134
Investment Philosophy and Impact
Serena's investment approach emphasizes innovation and societal impact. She is particularly interested in companies that utilize advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning to address pressing global challenges. For instance, she is involved with startups that are redefining consumer experiences through frictionless shopping solutions and sustainable food production methods.14
In addition to her investment work, Serena is committed to fostering corporate responsibility and community engagement. She actively participates in initiatives aimed at improving societal outcomes through technology.12
Personal Insights
Serena also shares her insights on leadership and business development through teaching and public speaking. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships with founders and understanding their visions as critical components of successful investing.45
Overall, Serena Dayal exemplifies a new generation of leaders in venture capital, advocating for diversity and innovation while making significant contributions to the startup ecosystem.


