Aravind Kannan’s Post

At Gigascale, we’re passionate about enabling talented people to move into climate tech. We’ve all made the transition, and by sharing our stories, we hope to offer valuable perspectives and advice to help you on your journey. First up, meet Victoria Beasley, a partner at Gigascale. Over the past 15 years, she has been actively working to combine her background in investing and finance with her love for the environment. 🌲 Background: Victoria grew up with a deep connection to nature, thanks to her family's farming roots and her childhood adventures in the woods. A numbers whiz, she went into investment banking but always looked for ways to blend finance with environmental impact. Fun fact: Her passion for the environment led her to spend vacations at sustainability conferences, where she was inspired by entrepreneurs building significant businesses while addressing environmental concerns. ☀️ First Job in Climate Tech: Victoria joined an early-stage solar startup, learning how to merge business and science for impactful climate solutions. As head of finance, she saw firsthand how integrating science, engineering, sales, and business could work together to scale a company. From there, she continued her journey by founding an ag-tech company, applying her expertise to continue driving positive impact through innovative and effective business solutions. 🚀 What Excites Her: Victoria is excited by the influx of talent and technical founders in climate tech. She emphasizes the need for investors with real-world hard tech commercialization experience to guide these brilliant minds. From running an all-hands to setting up a 401(k), Victoria supports founders through the messy experience of entrepreneurship. 🔑 Advice: "Know you can have an impact through your job. Climate tech needs a variety of skills, not just scientists. Our work today lays the foundation for future solutions, one step at a time." 📚 Go-To Resources: “I tend to spend a lot of time digging into research. Otherwise, podcasts are a great way to get exposure to a lot of ideas in climate tech. I usually direct people to Watt It Takes with Emily Kirsch or Catalyst with Shayle Kann.” Let us know if you like this series and stay tuned for more stories from the Gigascale team! #climatetech #venturecapital #climatetechcareers #climatecareers #climatechange #podcasts

What’s the big risk of going global with hiring? It’s simple - companies are hungry for talent, and the U.S. just isn’t keeping up. On a recent podcast, the CEO of Built In - the biggest job board for startups in the U.S - shared a surprising stat: 70% of their enterprise clients are now hiring globally. Built In is all in on helping their clients find talent beyond borders, and with good reason. Imagine this: 90% of large enterprises and 50% of mid-sized businesses have set their sights beyond the borders. First, it was tech talent—engineers, and data scientists. Now? It’s everyone. From finance to accounting, companies are building entire teams abroad. Why the shift? It comes down to two major reasons: 1/ Demand → Every company is becoming a tech company, and the need for skilled talent is endless. → The CEO of GitHub even predicted that by 2027, India will rival the U.S. for engineering talent. 2/ Cost → Hiring overseas was initially about saving money, and while those savings are still there, competition is driving up costs internationally. → But for now? The financial appeal is strong. The kicker? These companies aren’t just looking for talent—they’re building a brand presence abroad. It used to be the norm to set up brand teams in the U.S. Now, American companies are the ones knocking on global doors, asking, “How do we make our brand known here?” Big players are moving fast, adapting to the global shift, while smaller and mid-sized companies sit on the sidelines. So, here’s the real question: Why wait? —— If you're gearing up to take your team global—or just curious about how top companies are making this shift—follow me for insights from the world’s best global-first entrepreneurs. And if you’re ready to hire the world’s best Growth and Tech Talent, let’s connect!

🌍 Blowing Up Borders: Embracing a Multistakeholder World ✍️ In today's interconnected world, it's crucial to recognize the power of collaboration across borders and sectors. We used to work in silos. Today and tomorrow require more collaboration. "Hey Mikel, that's nothing new?!" -> Yes I know, but we need more of it! Hence, my message is to amplify this problem. Here is some data, one more time, on why we need to embrace the multi-stakeholder approach. This study really fascinated me, so much that I am sharing a blog about it. Beyond the stakeholder economy, it highlights how diverse perspectives can drive innovation and solve complex global challenges. 🔗 Key takeaways 👉 Global Connectivity: 55% of top U.S. unicorn founders are immigrants or second-generation immigrants, emphasizing the importance of global perspectives and diverse networks in entrepreneurial success. 👉 Networks & STEM: The study highlights stories of unicorn founders leveraging global networks and diverse backgrounds to build billion-dollar companies. Many have a background in STEM, with 61% majoring in science or engineering. 👉 A career in multiple disciplines: Only 20% of these founders worked at elite firms, preferring experience in sales, marketing, and business development across various company stages for a well-rounded perspective. CEOs recognizing the need for it. Let's build networks, blowing up borders, for a better world. https://lnkd.in/e-5wsYUk

As someone who identifies as a #generalist, I've come to deeply appreciate the versatility of this mindset and its growing relevance in our AI-driven world. As artificial intelligence permeatades every facet of society, the skills that will allow humans to thrive are rapidly evolving. And in this era of exponential change, those of us with a generalist's flexible, integrative approach will be indispensable. At first glance, specialization seems paramount when narrow AI can computationally outperform humans on specific tasks. Yet it is the generalists - the "renaissance" individuals with wide-ranging curiosities and an ability to synthesize insights - who will unlock technology's true power. We blend novel concepts, transcending rigid boundaries to creatively combine human ingenuity with artificial intelligence. Envision an AI-augmented physician harmoniously navigating biological data, cutting-edge tech, holistic wellness, and empathetic care. This modern polymath seamlessly accesses machine precision while providing the context, creative spark, and ethical grounding for breakthrough preventative treatments and unifying life solutions. Or consider a dynamic business leader who grasps the interrelations of AI supply chains, generative models, anthropological impacts, and regenerative practices. Drawing from their wellspring of multidisciplinary knowledge, they reimagine entire industries aligned with evolving sociotechnical systems. At our core, generalists excel at making insightful intuitive leaps. We become indispensable sense-makers, blending abstract reasoning with diverse contextual knowledge for holistic understandings. As AI automates routine work, distinctly human talents like framing problems, expressing creativity, and navigating ambiguity become premium skills. Just as the Renaissance sparked from convergent thinkers synthesizing art, science, philosophy and technology, today's modern Renaissance will be catalyzed by generalists. These versatile minds will co-create the future by artfully combining artificial and human intelligence in profound new ways. In this era of disruptive change, specialization alone is insufficient. The rising tides of technological transformation demand a new genius - one of breadth, adaptability and infinite lenses for ingeniously combining ideas. As a generalist, I see my own pluralistic profile becoming an increasing asset. Those cultivating this versatile perspective will be indispensable trans-disciplinary thinkers and architects of society's new AI-augmented realities. #artificialintelligence #ai

Excellent Forbes article on the rise of the connected leader - and how the best of us are adding to career portfolios. From advisory boards to fractional consulting, venture startups and even publishing their own content, today's tech leaders are embracing their career portfolio and not just a career path. Exactly what I've been trying to say in each Launch Key newsletter. Our knowledge and experience have an incredible amount of value outside of the day job. Who knows what late-career blossom that turns into .... #olderpreneur https://lnkd.in/eJg3bS2T

"From Dreams to Reality: My Journey as a Woman in Finance and Tech" Hi, I'm Adelade Nyarirangwe. It’s been a long, crazy journey to get to where I am today, but I never dared to give up on myself or my dream. I'm now living my dream in two ways: running a business that has created employment and working as a data scientist for a financial institution. Both are incredibly fulfilling, but it hasn’t always been easy. I’ve faced challenges, doubt, and uncertainty—but I kept pushing forward. I know many of you, especially undergrads and recent graduates, might find yourselves in a similar pickle jar I once was in, wondering how to get from point A to point B in your careers and businesses. I’ve been there. It’s tough out here, especially in today’s not-so-easy economy, but I’m here to tell you that your dreams are valid, and it’s possible to bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. Through this platform, I want to share what I’ve learned and help you navigate the world of business and career. Whether it's figuring out how to break into tech, scale your side hustle, or overcome the challenges you're facing, I’m here to offer insights, guidance, and, hopefully, a little inspiration. Let’s connect, grow, and win together! 💼🌍🚀 #FinanceWomen #WomenInTech #Entrepreneurship #CareerJourney #BusinessGrowth #TechAndFinance #WomenSupportingWomen #AfricanEntrepreneurs #Leadership #DataScience #DreamBig

Michael Jackson's "Heal the World" inspires us to strive for a better world through social missions and causes we believe in. Many of us aim to make the world a better place by integrating social missions into our work. However, a surprising trend emerges when examining the impact of social missions on attracting talent 👨💼 to startups. Research has shown that the number of candidates applying for positions decreases when a social mission is associated with a startup unless the company is already an established brand. This is because candidates prioritize career advancement when deciding to apply for a job 📄 . For social entrepreneurs, it is crucial to communicate clearly to potential candidates that their career growth will not be hindered by the company's social cause. Assuring them of their professional development opportunities is key to attracting and retaining top talent while pursuing social missions. When hiring talent in different cultures, whether in the US, Canada, or other remote locations, it is essential to consider cultural differences, religious beliefs, and economic opportunities (or the lack thereof). These factors significantly influence the causes and values that individuals hold dear. https://lnkd.in/gNdu3qJr #techto #remote #polycareers #talentacquisition

As I've soaked up the warmth of the summer sun, I’ve found myself somewhat withdrawn from active participation on LinkedIn. Between my responsibilities at the Hampshire Growth Hub and involvement in various working groups, my contributions have dwindled to occasional ‘likes’, emojis, and sporadic comments. However, I’ve come to realise that it’s time to re-engage especially since I regularly connect with a diverse group of inspiring stakeholders who have valuable perspectives on the support necessary for driving business growth and enhancing economic prosperity. In the coming weeks, I’ll be reviving my presence on this platform and posting on a wide range of topics, all centred around the theme of economic growth from multiple perspectives. Here’s a quick preview on what you can expect: 👉 Championing AI: Bridging the Skills Gap 👉 Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities in International Trade 👉 Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace 👉 Revitalising Our High Streets: The Return of In-Store Shopping 👉 Transitioning from the ‘Great Resignation’ to the ‘Great Retention’ Alongside each post, I plan to experiment with AI-generated imagery to develop my creative boundaries and explore this emerging technology. I’m also keen to share insights on a range of research and development projects that I’m involved with, particularly focusing on how regional entrepreneurs seeking funding could benefit from a new initiative designed to enhance their engagement with traditional lenders, venture capitalists, and angel investors. Stay tuned for my first post, which will be coming very soon. In fact it’s time for me to start writing and creating! I will welcome your thoughts and invite you to join the conversation! #letstallkaboutgrowth

LinkedIn is a great platform for like-minded leaders and professionals to share purposeful insights of utmost importance for humanity - climate, biodiversity, DEI and AI are some of the subjects. Many of us would have received (1) CVs asking for a job, or recommendation or referral, (2) teasers for investing into early stage companies, (3) requests to meet for advice/guidance for a competition due in 2 weeks, (4) requests for comments on projects, or (5) connection requests which turn into marketing of products/services. While all are well-meaning and interesting, it is time-consuming to provide a prompt polite response to each of them. I find myself apologizing often since 'my calendar is overflowing for the next 2 months', and yet there are some persistent ones who want 30 minutes for something I can't give priority to at this moment (unless I cut sleep time). For sustainable investing, my focus is on global listed securities. Principles of investing in an early-stage company (even one with a prototype): (1) I know the founder - s/he has integrity, can lead and execute, can attract the right talents (hence knowing the team adds points), or (2) I know the co-investor - has industry-specific or early-stage investing knowhow; will have a board seat to monitor the startup; can open the right doors to customers/partners/regulators for the startup, or (3) There is no better alternative - it presents a unique solution with great economic moat, hard to replicate, relatively easy to scale While it doesn't please people, it makes sense to me. Health is priceless, physical or mental, and discipline is the only way to maintain good health. Thank you for allowing me to keep discipline with a rather inflexible calendar. Very grateful to friends and connections who tirelessly share professional insights that help make this a better world. May abundant blessings be with you. #wellbeing #sustainability #climate #governance #esg #investing #knowledge #gratitude

You know something the rest of the world doesn't. It's big. And you're early. Here's how it'll go down.. ⚡️ When I first started Generalist World, it was lonely AF. A dated definition. A massive stigma. A world built for specialists. But over the past few years, (with a big boost from David Epstein's book, Range) I've noticed a distinct change..... - Universities crying out for generalist education - Companies creating jobs designed for squiggly skillsets - Startups launching for generalists (heyyyy to our friends The Generalist Co. Hello Generalist and Jumpstart!) - Articles in Forbes and Harvard Business Review - And most recently, a huge shift on socials. People adding 'generalist' to their LinkedIn bio. Viral Twitter posts celebrating generalists. My TikTok surpassing 10k followers in 8 months. The social demand is real. But alas, we are still early. And when you're early to the party, it can be kinda awkward 😅 So if you feel like you're preaching the generalist message on repeat, it's because you are. It's because *most* of the world hasn't arrived. But they will. It'll happen bottom-up. It starts now, with you 👇 Early adopters on the internet. Then startups catch on. Then SME's catch on. Then universities catch on. Then corporations catch on. Slowly at first, then all at once. It's at Generalist World, where we're building the generalist workforce that solves the world's thorniest problems. With these (existential!!!) problems snapping at our heels, and the world changing exponentially fast, the rise of the generalist is inevitable. As Rebecca Wilson, PhD coined at our GW offsite, "why are we trying to master trades that no longer exist?" It's not easy being early. But hold steady, 'cos it pays to be early. What do you think? #generalist