Claypond Capital, the family investment office of Manipal Group Chairman Dr. Ranjan Pai, has appointed Sekhar Garisa as its managing director. This marks a significant milestone for the Bengaluru-based firm, which has been making strategic investments in young Indian companies since its inception in 2023. With this appointment, the firm aims to enhance its investment strategies and expand its portfolio, especially in healthcare, deep-tech, and emerging startups.
Garisa, an alumnus of NIT Warangal and IIM Lucknow, brings nearly two decades of leadership experience. He previously served as the president of product businesses at Quess Corp, where he played a crucial role in transforming job portal Foundit into a full-fledged talent-management platform. His prior leadership roles at Microsoft, McKinsey, and P&G further strengthen his expertise in business strategy and investment management.
Dr. Ranjan Pai expressed confidence in Garisa’s ability to drive the firm’s vision forward. Claypond Capital has already invested in prominent startups such as Zepto, HealthifyMe, and PharmEasy. The firm also recently hired Shravan Subramanyam, former head of Wipro-GE Healthcare, to lead its medical-technology initiatives. With Garisa at the helm, Claypond Capital aims to become the preferred partner for Indian entrepreneurs by offering “confidence capital” and long-term commitment.
1. Introduction to Claypond Capital
1.1 Founding and Business Model
Claypond Capital was founded in 2023 as the family investment office of Dr. Ranjan Pai. The firm primarily focuses on investing in high-growth Indian startups across various sectors, including healthcare, deep-tech, and consumer technology. Led by veteran investment banker Shyam Powar, Claypond Capital actively manages the Pai family’s wealth while also supporting the growth of innovative Indian businesses.
1.2 Revenue and Funding Model
Claypond Capital follows a strategic investment model, wherein it provides financial backing, strategic guidance, and mentorship to promising startups. The firm operates with a long-term investment outlook, partnering with entrepreneurs to build scalable and sustainable businesses. It has already backed notable startups, including Zepto (quick-commerce), HealthifyMe (health-tech), and PharmEasy (online pharmacy).
2. Appointment of Sekhar Garisa
2.1 Garisa’s Professional Background
Sekhar Garisa brings nearly two decades of experience in business leadership, technology, and investment strategy. An alumnus of NIT Warangal and IIM Lucknow, he has held senior roles at Microsoft, McKinsey, and Procter & Gamble (P&G). Before joining Claypond Capital, he was the president of product businesses at Quess Corp, where he played a pivotal role in revamping job portal Foundit.
2.2 Leadership Vision and Strategy
Garisa believes that Indian startups are at a transformative stage, with quality founders, bold ideas, and tech-driven innovation coming together. He aims to position Claypond Capital as the “partner of choice” for entrepreneurs by providing not just financial investment but also long-term strategic support. His focus will be on fostering innovation, scaling businesses, and enhancing operational efficiencies in portfolio companies.
3. Claypond Capital’s Growing Investment Portfolio
3.1 Key Investments
The firm has made significant investments in leading startups such as:
- Zepto – A quick-commerce startup revolutionizing the grocery delivery market.
- HealthifyMe – A health-tech platform offering AI-powered fitness and nutrition coaching.
- PharmEasy – One of India’s largest online pharmacies, providing affordable medicines and diagnostics.
3.2 Expansion into Healthcare and Deep-Tech
Claypond Capital recently appointed Shravan Subramanyam, former Wipro-GE Healthcare head, to lead its medical-technology platform. This move signals the firm’s broader push into healthcare and deep-tech investments, reinforcing its commitment to high-impact industries.
4. Leadership Perspectives on the Appointment
4.1 Sekhar Garisa’s Statement
Claypond Capital appoints Sekhar Garisa as managing director. Garisa expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating: “There has never been a better time for Indian startups. We are building Claypond Capital to be the partner of choice for India’s entrepreneurs through a strong ‘Entrepreneur First’ approach. Our strategy revolves around providing confidence capital and a long-term commitment to founders’ visions.”
4.2 Dr. Ranjan Pai’s Endorsement
Dr. Pai welcomed Garisa’s appointment, emphasizing: “I am happy that Sekhar is coming on board. His experience and skill set will add tremendous value to our portfolio companies and their founders. His leadership will help us strengthen our position in India’s startup ecosystem.”
5. Learning for Startups and Entrepreneurs
5.1 Importance of Strategic Investments
Startups looking to scale need not only financial backing but also strategic mentorship. Claypond Capital’s investment approach highlights the significance of choosing investors who bring industry insights and long-term vision.
5.2 The Role of Experienced Leadership
Claypond Capital appoints Sekhar Garisa as managing director. The appointment of experienced professionals like Sekhar Garisa demonstrates the value of leadership expertise in scaling businesses. Startups should focus on building strong leadership teams that can drive long-term growth.
5.3 Sectoral Trends: Healthcare and Deep-Tech
Claypond Capital’s focus on healthcare and deep-tech reflects the growing potential of these sectors. Entrepreneurs in these fields should leverage emerging technologies and innovation to create disruptive business models.
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