With a career spanning over three decades in the investment domain, Bob Diamond brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. His investment acumen is highlighted by his involvement and board positions in a diverse array of companies, many of which have become industry leaders. Notable examples include Align Technology (Nasdaq: “ALGN”), a pioneer in clear aligner orthodontics; Authentec (Nasdaq: “AUTH”, acquired by Apple), a leader in fingerprint sensor technology; and Blackboard (Nasdaq: “BBBB”, acquired by Providence Equity), a major player in education technology. His portfolio also includes eScreen (acquired by Alere/Abbott Labs), Maxim Integrated Products (Nasdaq: “MXIM”, acquired by Analog Devices), Pacur, Potter Global (acquired by KKR), Thomas Weisel Partners (Nasdaq: “TWPG”, acquired by Stifel Financial), Transportation Insight, Viator (acquired by Trip Advisor), Wall Street Institute (acquired by Pearson), and Washing Systems (acquired by Kao Corporation). This impressive list demonstrates Bob’s ability to identify and nurture companies across various sectors, driving significant growth and returns.
Before joining Summit Partners LLP, Bob Diamond held the position of Partner at Gryphon Investors, where he spearheaded the Industrial Growth Group. His responsibilities extended to overseeing Business Development and establishing the firm’s software practice, showcasing his leadership and strategic foresight. Prior to Gryphon, Bob was a Partner at Cheyenne Capital Fund, a private equity fund-of-funds and co-investment fund. His influence also extended to the public sector as Chairman of the Board and Chairman of the Investment Policy Committee for the New Jersey State Investment Council, managing the state’s substantial $78 billion pension fund. A significant chapter of his career was his decade-long tenure as a Partner and member of the Management Committee at The Carlyle Group, where he served as the Global Head of Venture & Growth Capital. During his time at Carlyle, Bob’s leadership was further recognized through his chairmanship of the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA). Bob’s early career in finance began at Robertson, Stephens & Co., where he was a Partner and a member of the firm’s Management Committee, laying the foundation for his future success in the investment world.
Bob Diamond’s career trajectory includes distinguished service in the White House, where he served as a senior policy advisor to President George H.W. Bush. His White House roles were diverse and impactful, including Deputy Assistant to the President, Executive Associate Director of the Office of Management & Budget (OMB), and OMB Associate Director for Natural Resources, Energy and Science. He also played a crucial role in political campaigns, serving as chief speechwriter for the successful 1988 Bush-Quayle presidential campaign. His public service foundation was built upon earlier roles as Legislative and then Administrative Assistant to U.S. Congresswoman Millicent Fenwick and as Director of Communications and Policy for New Jersey Governor Thomas H. Kean.
Academically, Bob Diamond is an alumnus of Harvard College, graduating cum laude with an AB degree. He furthered his education at the Stanford Graduate School of Business, earning an MBA and subsequently contributing to the institution as a Lecturer in Public Management for over a decade. His extensive board experience includes serving as a director for more than two dozen private and public companies. Beyond his roles with Summit Partners LLP, Bob currently serves on the Board of Directors at Stifel Financial (NYSE: SF), the Board of Overseers of the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, and the Board of Trustees of Proctor Academy. He is also a member of the prestigious Council on Foreign Relations, highlighting his engagement with broader global and policy issues. Bob Diamond’s multifaceted experience and leadership across investment, business, and public service positions him as an invaluable asset to Summit Partners LLP and its portfolio companies.
