Early in his career, Isaac advised some of the world’s largest technology companies where he became a student of business models, markets and competitive moats. Today, with 20 years of experience scaling technology companies as an investor and advisor, he has a deep understanding of how to scale enterprise software companies effectively. As a Partner at Lightspeed, he brings this perspective into action driving the firm’s venture buyout strategy, where he works closely with founders and management teams to grow and transform their businesses.
Isaac’s parents immigrated from Korea to the U.S. knowing no English and with little money. From labor jobs to eventually owning a sandwich deli in Seattle, they worked diligently to provide their children with the best education and opportunities to succeed. The formative entrepreneurial experience of his family has imbued Isaac with a sincere respect for the founders and CEOs he works with at Lightspeed.
“I have been blessed with many mentors in my life, whether they be coaches from the soccer and football fields, managers at work or my leadership coach during business school,” said Isaac. “The common theme has been people that care deeply about me as a person first, and a willingness to provide guidance and feedback that is direct and helpful.” He brings this feedback generous and partnership approach to Lightspeed and its portfolio companies.
Isaac holds an A.B. in Economics from Harvard University and an MBA from Stanford University. He began his career as a management consultant at Bain & Co. before moving into private equity investing at Golden Gate Capital and eventually to build Elliott Investment Management’s technology private equity strategy (formerly Evergreen Coast Capital).
Isaac values his quiet time in the morning, and loves team sports (Go Seahawks!) and spending time with his wife and three daughters. He and his family care deeply about youth-related causes and he sits on the boards of Yana Ministry, a non-profit focused on helping Korean orphans flourish, and ScholarMatch, a non-profit focused on helping first generation, under-resourced students get into and through college.
