Former Amadeus global innovation chief to join venture capital firm

Katherine Grass is moving to San Francisco-based Thayer Ventures, which focuses exclusively on travel and transportation technology Continue reading →

Former Amadeus global head of innovation and ventures is joining a specialist venture capital firm as a venture partner.

Katherine Grass, who has more than 20 years experience in technology, is moving to San Francisco-based Thayer Ventures.

The firm is focused exclusively on innovation in travel and transportation technology.

It currently supports travel technology companies, including Duetto, ADARA, TripBam, Liftopia, Sonder and ID90T.

Grass will be based in Madrid to help further accelerate the firm’s alignment with global strategic investors and its investment in promising start-ups in Europe and Asia.

Managing director Chris Hemmeter said: “Katherine brings a unique track record, which includes growing a global investment fund, creating a robust partner network and working with strategic investors to create value.

“She will help us aggressively expand Thayer Ventures’ footprint globally, as we identify investment opportunities and partners in the rich and fast-changing travel and transportation spaces.”

Grass added: “There are huge opportunities outside North America, as cities such as London, Amsterdam, Berlin, Madrid and Paris nurture dynamic start up ecosystems.

“Already investing from its third fund, Thayer Ventures has the potential to identify and leverage best of breed travel and transportation start up companies around the world, combining its track record of success in North America with a keen eye for the kinds of innovation that are likely to drive investor returns.”