Venture capital firm Rally Ventures has announced the appointment of former Jamf sales leader Liz Benz as a full-time Operating Partner. Benz, who previously served as a long-time technology partner for the firm, brings decades of experience in scaling high-growth technology companies. Her new role will focus on accelerating portfolio growth through AI-powered go-to-market strategies and company creation initiatives.
A Strategic Focus on Go-to-Market Execution
In her capacity as Operating Partner, Benz will work directly with Rally's portfolio companies to refine and execute their commercial strategies. She will specifically emphasize an AI-native approach to help these early-stage businesses achieve rapid and sustainable growth. Additionally, Benz will contribute to the advancement of Rally Built, the firm's dedicated company creation platform that augments its core investment strategy.
A Proven Record of Scaling Revenue
Benz's career is marked by a consistent ability to drive significant revenue growth for technology firms. During her tenure as Chief Sales Officer at Jamf, she was instrumental in scaling the company's annual recurring revenue from $70 million to over $700 million. Her leadership experience also includes senior roles at Field Nation, Oracle, and Digital River, where she guided teams through major transformations.
Leadership Endorses a Hands-On Approach
Rally Ventures' leadership has expressed strong confidence in Benz's ability to make an immediate impact. Managing Director Justin Kaufenberg highlighted her rare depth of experience and proven sense of what it takes to reach meaningful scale. He noted that her transition from a Tech Partner to a full-time role will enhance the day-to-day support for portfolio companies.
Jeff Hinck, also a Managing Director, emphasized the practical value Benz brings to entrepreneurs navigating complex challenges. He described her as a crucial resource for helping teams overcome bottlenecks and maintain focus on critical objectives. This appointment reinforces the firm's commitment to being a reliable partner when the path forward is unclear for founders.
Building for the Future
Benz expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, stating her desire to work more deeply with founders from their earliest days. She looks forward to helping teams transform innovative ideas into tangible, successful businesses. This move allows her to apply her problem-solving skills more directly to support the firm's portfolio and its founders.
This appointment is part of a broader expansion of Rally Ventures' operational team, which recently welcomed Ben Fried and Luke Zaientz. The firm is actively investing out of its fifth fund, Rally Fund V. Its primary focus remains on early-stage business technology companies in sectors like AI/ML, fintech, and cybersecurity.
The addition of Liz Benz as a full-time Operating Partner significantly strengthens Rally Ventures' operational capabilities. Her extensive experience in scaling sales organizations provides a critical resource for the firm's early-stage technology investments. This strategic hire underscores the firm's dedication to providing hands-on, expert guidance to help its portfolio companies achieve market leadership.