VCs are still hiring MBAs, but firms are starting to need other experience more

TechCrunch
TechCrunch
3M ago
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Venture capital firms are increasingly valuing technical experience over MBA credentials, reflecting a shift in hiring practices.
VCs are still hiring MBAs, but firms are starting to need other experience more
A What happened
The venture capital (VC) landscape is witnessing a notable shift in hiring practices, with firms increasingly favoring candidates with technical experience over traditional MBA graduates. According to PitchBook data, while prestigious institutions like Harvard and Stanford continue to place graduates into VC roles, the percentage of mid-career professionals holding MBAs has decreased from 44% in the early 2000s to 32% today. This trend is attributed to the evolution of the VC sector, which now emphasizes expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence and hardware. As a result, firms are sourcing talent from tech companies like OpenAI and SpaceX rather than solely relying on elite MBA programs. Despite this shift, many MBA students remain unaware, as evidenced by the large membership of Stanford's VC club. The financial burden of obtaining an MBA, often exceeding $200,000, raises questions about the future value of such degrees in the VC field.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Declining MBA Influence: The percentage of mid-career VCs with MBAs has dropped significantly.

  • 2

    Technical Skills Preferred: Firms are prioritizing candidates with technical backgrounds in emerging sectors.

  • 3

    High Cost of MBA: Obtaining an MBA can exceed $200,000, raising concerns about its value.

Takeaways

The venture capital industry is evolving, necessitating a reevaluation of traditional hiring practices.

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Business & Markets Economy Startups/VC Work & Education Careers & Work