Ed tinkers with technologies of all kinds, and is waiting for VR to hit the mainstream. He moved to Singapore to set up the SEA office, and invests across all industries.
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Get to know
Ed Barker
We're one global team but we've got our own stories. Here's what makes us tick.
What advice do you live by?
"The phrase “strong opinions, weakly held” resonates with me. Developing a hypothesis based on intuition is helpful – however, the real value lies in consistently challenging your opinions and being open to change them as new information emerges."
What’s the essential role of a founder?
"Supporting your people and driving culture. You are in the position to motivate, excite and shape those around you – and they are critical to your success (and enjoyment!) Carefully considering how you hire, retain and inspire your employees across the business is a crucial success factor and essential role."
What did you learn in previous roles?
"Not to be afraid of asking seemingly ‘stupid’ questions – I’ve learnt to ask my fair share. By having an inquisitive and open mindset, you can learn a lot from the people around you – in often unexpected ways. I have fond memories of learning about statins while helping to fill a prescription as a retail assistant or understanding AD Security Groups while solving user issues as an IT technician. If you want to understand something, ask!"
What do you know to be true about business?
"The common denominator of every business, no matter the industry, is people. They are at the core of success or failure, collaboration or silo’d thinking, myopia or hypermetropia."
What does the future hold?
"The only thing I’m certain of is uncertainty."
What in your childhood made your career trajectory probable?
"I’ve always been fascinated by continuously learning about any and all topics. From building computers in my teenage years to a constant stream of podcasts today, if I have an opportunity to learn then I’ll take it. Given this, a career where I can continuously learn about new problems and meet new people seemed inevitable."
What’s the most under-appreciated skill in founders?
"Honest self-reflection. Knowing what you don’t know is a powerful asset, providing you with the ability to build a team around you which compliments your skillsets."
What tech do you avoid in your personal life?
"I’m quite minimalist with tech in the home; I have a record player, don’t own a TV and have almost all notifications turned off on my phone. Tech can be a distraction, so I minimise it where possible in downtime."
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