Alex Guyer

Alex is an Associate Partner at Black Nova Venture Capital and a Partner at IAG’s Firemark Ventures.
Over the last ten years, Alex has held roles in investment banking, consulting and has also held senior roles within corporate venture funds.
He has invested in companies from the earliest stages through to the public markets and across a wide range of sectors.
Alex has also held a variety of directorships in early stage technology companies.
Outside of work you can find me at? Outdoors.
Surfing, camping or exploring are my typical go to’s.
We are spoiled for choice in Australia and I’m trying to fit in as much as I can.
Best thing about startups? The passion of the founders.
There are few other work environments where you can find genuine passion for a challenge that needs solving, nor the determination to see the creation of the solution.
Top piece of advice for founders? Resilience is key.
As a founder you’ll hear “no” a lot or that something can’t be done – keep pushing! What do I look for in a founder? Passion, the ability to tell a story and confidence (not arrogance).
Two truths and a lie? I am a really good cook I have run a marathon I started surfing at 26 and am entirely self taught Favourite Quote + why? N/A Top 3 podcasts or books? Night Watch, Terry Pratchett.
I’ve always loved the satire, witty and tongue-in-cheek humour of Terry Pratchett.
Night Watch has all of this in spades.
The Most Important Thing, Howard Marks.
Recommended to me by a friend, this is a book I’ve enjoyed reading immensely and has certainly helped shape the way I think about investing.
Venture Unlocked, Samir Kaji.
Some of my current listening.
A podcast that features some excellent, respected VC’s sharing their experiences and discussing real problems those of us in the industry face – refreshingly open and painfully accurate at times.