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Why Listen:
Ken is an absolute Rockstar. His career includes working at some of the most iconic brands in Silicon Valley; Siebel Systems, McAfee, AVAST Software, FireEye, and now founding and running his own investment firm, NightDragon. Here are six different things to keep an ear out for in this episode. First of all, why veterans should consider a career in cybersecurity and what the characteristics of this industry are. Second, what life is like as a mid to late-stage investor. Third, the one thing everyone overlooks when it comes to networking. Fourth, using the lens of fun learning and money to evaluate career shifts. Fifth, why you should always take a job interview even if you're happy at your current job. And sixth, an overview of the corporate development role, something we've never talked about on the show.
About Ken:
Ken Gonzalez is the Managing Director of NightDragon, an investment and advisory firm focused on investing in growth and late-stage companies within the cybersecurity, safety, security, and privacy industry. Prior to NightDragon, Ken was the Managing Director of ForgePoint Capital. Previously, he led the strategy and corporate business development functions at FireEye, AVAST Software, McAfee, and Siebel Systems (now part of Oracle) and was responsible for acquisition target selection, deal negotiation, and post-merger integration. He also served in the United States Army as an infantry officer with the 82nd Airborne Division and the 75th Ranger Regiment.
Selected Resources:
Ken’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-gonzalez-672237/
NightDragon: https://www.nightdragon.com/
Time Stamps:
Ken’s background [0:42]
What drew Ken to cybersecurity [4:39]
Cybersecurity: “the perfect storm of opportunity” [5:46]
It’s good to have a master plan [13:28]
Business development is partnerships [15:16]
Let’s talk about investing [19:11]
Going directly to industry vs. getting an MBA [23:08]
How the military helped Ken succeed [26:03]
Staying sharp: do the interview [29:00]
Ken’s resources [34:43]
How Ken keeps his network alive [36:26]
Don't do something you don't love [38:11]