Advisory Team Profile

Rohan Dixit

Director, Finance
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"Build a culture of integrity and invest in enabling systems - they're the foundation for scaling up."

Get To Know

Rohan Dixit

How has your experience working across industries shaped your approach to working in VC and with founders?

At Unilever, I spent a decade gaining deep insights across finance, brands, sales, supply chain, and marketing while learning high-quality processes and controls. 

At True North, a private equity firm, working with portfolio companies helped me develop a strategic perspective on fast-growing companies across sectors. 

As CFO at NBHC, I partnered with the CEO to lead complex, multi-business operations while driving profitability and risk management.

This journey across large MNCs, high-growth companies, and complex businesses has given me a diverse perspective that helps me connect meaningfully with founders and provide guidance in operations and finance. It's particularly valuable in venture capital, where we need to balance the dynamic nature of the business with robust processes that fulfill our fiduciary responsibilities.

For founders just starting out, what are 3 non-negotiable financial processes they must implement from day one?

First, invest in finance infrastructure ahead of growth - both team and technology. This means having the right accounting software, compliance tools, and qualified personnel in place before they become critical needs.

Second, establish robust SOPs and controls with regular internal audits. These should cover everything from expense management to financial reporting and compliance checks.

Third, build a strong FP&A team that works closely with business teams to drive data-backed decisions. This team should focus on metrics that matter for your business model and growth stage.

What are the key differences between financial planning for large corporations versus early-stage startups?

Large corporations have predictable operations and robust systems built over multiple business cycles. 

While startups face more uncertainty in forecasting, they can still implement foundational systems to establish good financial hygiene from the start. 

The key is finding the right balance between flexibility for growth and structural integrity.

What are the critical financial systems and controls that startups often overlook but should prioritize?

While startups may be tempted to overlook processes for speed, it's crucial to build a culture of integrity and process-driven operations rather than person-dependent systems. 

Investing in enabling technology rather than relying on manual inputs is essential for scaling. This includes implementing basic controls around cash management, establishing clear approval hierarchies, and ensuring proper documentation of key decisions.

You're a published author and water-sports enthusiast. How do these pursuits help you maintain perspective?

These pursuits help me stay energized while navigating the 24/7 nature of the VC world. 

Sports develop focus and teamwork skills that translate directly to daily work, contributing to both physical and mental well-being. These outside interests provide the balance needed for sustained performance in a demanding role.

What's one book or podcast you would recommend to entrepreneurs?

I highly recommend "Ikigai" - it offers a fresh perspective on life that can help entrepreneurs build purpose and satisfaction as they work to create lasting businesses.

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Got any questions?

Reach out to Pranay to get more information and insights

Reach out to Rohan Dixit to get more information and insights

Email Address
rohan@z47.com
Phone Number
+91 22676 80000
Executive Assistant
Leziana Dabreo Rego
EA Email Address
leziana@z47.com
City
Mumbai