John Grillos

John Grillos is an experienced business executive and venture capitalist who currently serves as a Fellow at Sapphire Ventures, LLC.2 Here are some key details about his background and experience:

Professional Experience

• Fellow at Sapphire Ventures: John has been a Fellow at Sapphire Ventures since 2019.2 Sapphire Ventures is a global software venture capital firm with over $10 billion in assets under management.1

• Venture Capital Experience: He has managed four venture capital firms over his career and has extensive experience reviewing business plans, financing companies, and working through challenges to keep companies on a path to success.2

• Board Experience: John has been a member of 30 boards of directors throughout his career.2

• CEO Experience: He has served as CEO nine times and has managed six companies through periods of disruption to successful exits.3

Current Focus

John now focuses on:

• Helping U.S. companies grow and thrive in an increasingly competitive global environment
• Assisting emerging companies in smoothing their path to success
• Developing Tennessee into an innovation hub comparable to Silicon Valley2

Education

John earned a Bachelor's degree in Applied Mathematics with concentrations in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.4

Coaching and Advisory Work

Currently, John offers business coaching services to CEOs and owners of small to medium-sized companies experiencing growing pains.3 He leverages his extensive experience in company building and exits to help businesses maximize their value and prepare for successful exits.3

John Grillos brings a wealth of experience in venture capital, company leadership, and strategic growth to his role as a Fellow at Sapphire Ventures and in his coaching work with emerging companies.