Varun Varma’s passion for puzzles, building stuff and technology find perfect expression in his role overseeing the investment lifecycle and portfolio at Lightbox. He works with startups to break down problems, put the blocks together and develop solutions with the potential to have transformative impact. He is particularly interested in healthcare and education because of their potential to uplift society. Varun strikes an even balance between hustle and analytical thinking in his approach to investing. His ability to think on his feet and openness to collaboration have been instrumental in helping build focus, camaraderie and agility within the team.

Varun’s initiation into the world of startups and venture capital was preceded by a series of detours. While pursuing computer science engineering at the University of Michigan, he interned with Boston Consulting Group, imbibing a work ethic that holds him in good stead till today. After graduating, he  joined Bloomberg’s product and data team focused on improving the experience for clients in South Asia and Southeast Asia. The three-year stint enabled him to be close to technology and gain a deeper understanding of the finance universe. He subsequently moved on to edtech startup Avanti, spending four years building low-cost maths and science solutions for underserved students and investing in startups before finding his way to Lightbox.

In his role, Varun is entrusted with overseeing the investment team, enabling portfolio success through deep engagement on day-to-day operations; building relationships with limited partners; and developing the firm’s investment thesis for new sectors and opportunities. When evaluating a startup business, he prioritises the quality of the team, the scale of the team’s ambition and the depth of insight in crafting the product or service. While working with portfolio founders on operations, he savours the thrill of discovering an insight that could alter the trajectory of the business.

When he’s not solving real-world puzzles, Varun enjoys playing a game of football or cricket, immersing himself in geopolitics and getting to know interesting people.