Sam Paddock

Entrepreneur; Investor; Family Man

Sam Paddock is an entrepreneur, investor, and family man based in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa.1 He has a diverse background in business and technology, with experience in various industries.

Professional Experience

Sam Paddock is currently an investor at JEFF Fitness, a role he has held since November 2020.1 Prior to this, he has had several notable positions:

Founder and CEO of GetSmarter (2008-2018)
Investor and Director at Hubble Studios (2012-2023)
Investor and Director at Yuppiechef (2019-2022)
Director at Getwine (2005-2012)

Entrepreneurial Journey

Paddock's entrepreneurial journey began during his university years. He co-founded GetSmarter, an online education company, which he led for over a decade before it was acquired by 2U Inc. in 2017 for $103 million.1 2 After the acquisition, he briefly served as a Senior Advisor to 2U and GetSmarter management teams.

Education

Sam Paddock holds a BBusSci in Information Systems from the University of Cape Town, where he graduated first in his Information Systems Honours class.1 He has also completed courses in Strategic Business Management and Values Based Leadership at the University of Cape Town's Graduate School of Business.

Personal Life

Paddock is married to Keri and is a father to twins, Violet and Fletcher.1 2 He is currently on sabbatical, exploring AI and commercializing Drakenskloof Sanctuary while supporting South African entrepreneurs.2

Recognition

Sam Paddock has received recognition for his entrepreneurial achievements, including:

Featured on the cover of Entrepreneur Magazine in September 2015
Named in Mail & Guardian's 200 Young South Africans List in June 20131

Sam Paddock's LinkedIn username is indeed sampaddock, where he shares insights and updates about his professional journey and interests.1

Experience

Investor at JEFF Fitness (November 2020 - Present)

Investor and Director at Hubble Studios (June 2012 - January 2023); Investor and Director at Yuppiechef (February 2019 - July 2022); Founder and Senior Advisor at GetSmarter / 2U Inc (April 2018 - March 2019); Founder and CEO at GetSmarter (January 2008 - April 2018); Director at Getwine (April 2005 - February 2012); Managing Director at Paddocks (September 2006 - May 2008); Director at Umthunzi Investments (July 2005 - April 2006); Director at gradzone (June 2005 - March 2006)

Education

Values Based Leadership from Graduate School of Business - University of Cape Town (2015); Strategic Business Management from University of Cape Town (2015); BBusSci in Information Systems from University of Cape Town (2001 - 2004) - 1st in Information Systems Honours Class, Golden Key Society Member every year of University