Ján Kasper, PhD., MBA, PhD.'s Linkedin Analytics

As the co-founder of ZAKA VC, I have had the privilege of combining the expertise and resources of the Zalesak & Kasper families. Since 2020, our venture capital firm has strategically invested in 57 tech start-ups across the USA and Europe, with a particular focus on the UK, DACH region, Baltic region, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. My entrepreneurial journey began in 1988, and today, I am at the forefront of over 50 profitable companies operating in 8 diverse industries. These ventures collectively boast a workforce of more than 690 employees and generate revenues that soar past the 730-million-euro mark. My experience spans across various sectors, including communication, energetics, car dealership, leisure & hospitality, real estate, development, and IT. My academic credentials include a technical diploma from the Slovak University of Technology, an MBA from Webster University in Vienna, and not one, but two PhDs — in Marketing from the University of Economics in Bratislava, and in Management from Comenius University. Aside from my professional endeavours, I was part of the original team that brought the Bratislava Jazz Days festival to life in 1974 — a cultural staple that continues to thrive. Though my marathon running days are over, my enthusiasm for sports remains undiminished, as I'm an ardent fan of both the NBA and the Champions League. I also take great pleasure in exploring the world of fine red wines. At the heart of my world are 4 remarkable women — my dear wife Alexandra and our three daughters: Valentina, Karolina, and Alexandra Jr., complemented by our son, Jan Jr. I speak 4 languages, studied at 4 universities, and ran 4 marathons. There are 4 countries I reside in – predominantly in Italy, with regular stays in Spain, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia. And so it seems, the number 4 not only signifies the pillars of my life but also appears to be my lucky charm.