I’m currently based in London, working as a venture capital investor after nearly a decade in clean energy research and industry. At the venture capital firm I work at, we back high-impact deep tech startups that are transforming industries in a sustainable and cost effective way; helping them scale from the lab into transformative commercial solutions. This work aligns closely with my role at Outsmart Insight—an experience that has been invaluable in shaping my skill set and career trajectory.
Getting Started with Outsmart Insight
I joined Outsmart Insight during my PhD, around seven or eight years ago—time really flies! Initially, I was drawn to the opportunity to engage with deep tech research outside academia while gaining a broader perspective on technology commercialisation. What started as a side gig became an integral part of my professional journey, giving me direct exposure to breakthrough innovations and industry experts.
To date, I’ve worked on 44 projects spanning startup scouting, editorial work, and expert interviews. The latter has been particularly inspiring—speaking with leading experts has given me unparalleled insights into cutting-edge developments, from sustainable building materials to data center cooling, hydrogen, and food security. Every project has been an opportunity to learn, geek out over technology, and refine my ability to assess emerging trends.
Positioning My Experience on My CV
When positioning my experience at Outsmart Insight on my CV, I emphasise three key aspects:
- Deep Tech Expertise – The role involves deep tech research and analysis, aligning perfectly with my VC focus on industrial transformation and early-stage climate tech startups.
- Market and Competitive Insights – Many projects involve mapping breakthrough technologies or profiling niche sector players, skills that translate directly to investment due diligence.
- Consulting Skill Set – From structuring analysis to presenting findings concisely, these are core consulting competencies that are widely respected across industries.
I present my experience in a way that highlights versatility, detailing high-profile technology projects and tailoring specific examples depending on the audience—whether it’s technical know-how for an industry-focused role or strategic insights for a business-oriented position.
How It Helped in Interviews
My Outsmart Insight experience has been a significant differentiator in interviews.It has allowed me to showcase a unique blend of deep technical knowledge and consulting skills, positioning me as someone who bridges the gap between scientific innovation and commercial viability.
Interviewers have often asked about;
- Expert interviews and referencing
- Startup profiling and market analysis
- My approach to client calls and network building within the climate space
These experiences have helped me showcase a well-rounded skill set, and consulting credentials tend to be highly valued in many professional settings.
Final Thoughts
Working with Outsmart Insight has been instrumental in shaping my career. It has provided me with deep industry knowledge, honed my analytical and communication skills, and given me direct access to a network of top-tier experts. Whether you’re looking to gain exposure to new technologies, build a solid consulting skillset, or add unique experience to your CV, Outsmart Insight offers an incredible platform to grow and thrive.