VC Value Creation Strategies

Ashley is in venture and platform ops, focused on building resilient, AI-powered systems that support the infrastructure of venture. At Autotech Ventures, she leads strategic initiatives within the Strategic Partnerships function, integrating AI into workflows that enhance how the firm engages with LPs and streamlines fundraising processes. Prior to Autotech, she was at AngelList, where she supported fund operations across a range of venture structures. Ashley brings 8 years of experience in alternative investments and holds an MBA from UCF in Orlando, where she resides.

Francesco was the former Director of Data at Greycroft , where he oversaw the firm’s data strategy and builds data-driven engines to source, screen, and assess new deals. Prior to Greycroft, Francesco spent three years at Balderton Capital leading the data and research function, working on end-to-end tools, data, and algorithms for the investment team. Previously, he worked at Anthemis Group as a Fellow, and as a post-doc researcher at Ca’ Foscari University. Francesco holds a PhD in Economics from LUISS Guido Carli.

Lucia Cerchlan is Head of Founder Experience at BACKED VC, a London-based early-stage fund, where she partners closely with founders to help them scale from Seed to Series A. She also works on the firm’s product strategy. Before joining venture, Lucia spent a decade as an operator in high-growth startups. She led Product Research at London-based fintech companies Cuvva and Keebo (acquired by Wagestream), and drove international expansion and go-to-market strategy at Slido (acquired by Cisco) in London and San Francisco.