About Paul Inouye
Paul Inouye, born in San Francisco and raised in San Carlos, California, is a highly accomplished professional and sports enthusiast. As one of three brothers, he developed a strong sense of ambition and camaraderie early on. He completed his initial education at Bellarmine College Prep in San Jose, which laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to learning and self-improvement. He furthered his academic pursuits at UC Berkeley. This experience fostered both his intellectual curiosity and his passion for sports, and he later went on to earn an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Throughout his educational journey, he remained committed to excellence in both academics and athletics, which would continue to shape his personal and professional life.
In his free time, Paul enjoys a variety of physical activities that keep him energized and motivated. An avid cyclist, runner, and swimmer, he incorporates CrossFit exercises into his fitness routine, ensuring a well-rounded approach to health. He also has a love for skiing and frequently engages in outdoor adventures and travel. His musical tastes include a fondness for 80s music and electronic dance music (EDM), and he enjoys relaxing with classic 80s films. A dedicated reader, he often explores topics in military history, further enriching his understanding of discipline and strategy. His interest in competition extends to fantasy football, and he has played rugby at both the high school and collegiate levels. Beyond rugby, he has competed in endurance events such as the Vineman Ironman, the Vineman Half Ironman, the Hawaiian Half Ironman, and various marathons, including those in San Francisco, Avenue of the Giants, and New York City.
Professionally, Inouye brings over three decades of expertise in West Coast technology banking. Known for his deep understanding of the industry, he has honed specialized knowledge and negotiating skills, which have made him a trusted advisor in M&A transactions for software and internet technology businesses. His unique experience, coupled with a strategic insight into both financial and strategic buyers, has enabled him to deliver exceptional results for clients, many of whom are founders who have dedicated years to building their businesses. His career spans impressive roles at esteemed firms, including Robertson Stephens, Morgan Stanley, Piper Jaffray, Lehman Brothers, Perella Weinberg, and Moelis & Company. His dedication to excellence and integrity has left a significant impact on his clients and colleagues alike. As a father to two children, he takes pride in balancing his family responsibilities with his professional achievements, setting an example of commitment in both his personal and professional life.
The origins of his firm are rooted in his early years at Robertson Stephens, where Paul Inouye was fortunate to work closely with some of Silicon Valley's pioneering entrepreneurs. While he has held senior positions at prominent firms throughout his career, his true passion has always been in advising dynamic founders and supporting their journey. This entrepreneurial spirit has guided him in establishing a firm that mirrors his dedication to innovative tech leaders. He has also shared his insights and experiences through media, having been featured in Sportztalk, where he offered valuable training tips for first-time marathon runners. As a CEO and founder, his active lifestyle and participation in marathons and Ironman races reflect his commitment to pushing limits, a philosophy he champions in both his pursuits and his professional advice. Inouye remains dedicated to inspiring others to reach their highest potential through resilience, dedication, and a passion for growth.