Mitchell Kertzman

Mitchell Kertzman is an American venture capitalist and software industry executive, recognized as a pioneering figure in the development of the client–server computing and enterprise software markets. He gained prominence as the chief executive of PowerSoft, a leading database tool company he took public before its landmark acquisition by Sybase. Kertzman later led Liberate Technologies during the dot-com bubble and has served as a general partner at the prominent venture capital firm Hummer Winblad Venture Partners, focusing on investments in enterprise software and cloud computing.

Early life and education

Born in 1949 in Boston, Massachusetts, Kertzman developed an early interest in technology and business. He pursued his higher education at Boston University, though he left before completing his degree to embark on his professional career in the burgeoning computer software industry. His early entry into the business world during the 1970s placed him at the forefront of the microcomputer revolution, setting the stage for his future leadership roles in Silicon Valley.

Career

Kertzman's executive career began in earnest when he became president and chief executive officer of PowerSoft in 1991. Under his leadership, the company, known for its PowerBuilder rapid application development tool, became a dominant force in the client–server architecture market. He successfully guided PowerSoft through its initial public offering on the NASDAQ in 1992. The company's success attracted the attention of major industry players, culminating in its acquisition by Sybase in 1994 for approximately $900 million, one of the largest software deals of that era. Following this, Kertzman served as a vice chairman at Sybase before becoming CEO of Liberate Technologies, a spin-off from Oracle Corporation focused on interactive television software.

Business ventures and investments

After the dot-com bubble, Kertzman transitioned fully into venture capital, joining Hummer Winblad Venture Partners in San Francisco as a general partner. In this role, he has been instrumental in funding and advising numerous successful technology startups, particularly in the SaaS and cloud infrastructure sectors. His investment portfolio and board memberships have included companies such as MuleSoft, which was acquired by Salesforce, and Zuora, a leader in subscription management software. Kertzman is also a limited partner in several other venture funds and maintains an active role as an advisor to emerging companies in the Bay Area and beyond, applying his extensive experience in scaling enterprise software businesses.

Philanthropy and civic engagement

Kertzman is actively involved in philanthropic and educational initiatives, with a focus on supporting his alma mater and technology education. He has served on the Board of Overseers at Boston University and contributed to fundraising campaigns for the university's College of Arts and Sciences. His civic engagement includes support for various Bay Area cultural and social service organizations. Kertzman has also participated in policy discussions concerning technology innovation and entrepreneurship, sharing his insights at forums hosted by institutions like the Churchill Club and the Harvard Business School.

Personal life

Mitchell Kertzman resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is known in technology circles for his straightforward management style and his mentorship of entrepreneurs. An avid reader and history enthusiast, his interests extend beyond the technology sector. Kertzman has been married for decades and has children who have pursued careers in fields including law and technology.

Category:American venture capitalists Category:American technology company founders Category:1949 births Category:Living people Category:Boston University alumni Category:People from Boston Category:Businesspeople from San Francisco