Andrew Straub

I’m fascinated by how we’re only starting to scratch the surface of how technology can improve transportation and logistics. For example, if you look at how supply chains run today—the level of visibility into them, how companies trade with each other, how they source and procure materials—it’s all handled through fairly old-school practices. By contrast, when you look at technology improvements on the consumer side, with marketplaces like Amazon and Etsy, it’s incredible. I can’t wait to see where technology can take us on the supply chain side in developing B2B marketplaces and driving efficiencies.

When founders join the SoftBank family they gain access to a global ecosystem of portfolio companies and resources. We can leverage our network and reach to help founders in a number of ways. Sometimes it’s as simple as connecting founders with each other so they can share advice about navigating certain challenges and stages of a company’s life cycle. Our approach with founders is to be engaged, long-term partners. Founders should feel comfortable coming to us when things aren’t going so well, because that's often when we can provide the most valuable support.

It would be a little terrifying, but I would start my own company. Spending time with founders on a daily basis is inspiring, and I admire what they’re accomplishing. We may be providing financial and strategic support to founders, but they're the ones doing the hardest work. They’re the ones with the vision, building something that's having a real impact on the world. If I weren’t in my current role with the Vision Fund team, I’d likely pursue an entrepreneurial path. 

I have a son who was born at the beginning of the pandemic. It’s funny how quickly life transitions after having a kid. I spend most of my free time hanging out with my family, which has been amazing. Free time outside of being a parent to a young child is scarce, but I love being outside. I enjoy hiking, skiing, golfing—really any outdoor activity. Honestly, those moments to get away as a new father are few and far between, but I take the opportunities when I can.