Vicky joined NEA in 2023 as an Associate on the Healthcare team working across both the life sciences and digital health sectors. Before joining NEA, Vicky was a member of the Healthcare Investment Banking team at Goldman Sachs, in New York. There, she focused on biotech clients and worked on a variety of M&A, partnership, and financing transactions. Vicky received an MS in biomedical informatics and a BS in bioengineering from Stanford University.
What’s a problem area in healthcare that you’re excited to see being addressed?
I believe many of the companies on the healthcare side of NEA's portfolio are completely changing the way care is delivered to patients by improving quality and access, while decreasing costs. I am beyond excited to see these new models scale and set the new standard in the industry.
What makes NEA’s healthcare investing practice unique?
I believe we have deep expertise in healthcare—so much so that it breeds a willingness to build from scratch. We know what it takes to move from an idea to a business in this category. We’re able to identify areas of white space, envision business models, recruit outstanding management teams, and essentially stand up a business—which I think is a very rare capability among most venture firms.
In your opinion, what qualities should a founder look for in an investor?
You want an investor who is willing to do the work, have the tough conversations, open doors, and most importantly step up when things are difficult. It’s important for a CEO to understand that they aren’t just looking for a source of capital, they’re looking for a partner.
Why is it important to stay curious in your role?
As investors, we’re in the unique and privileged position to be constantly exposed to new business ideas, theories, and visions. It’s the brilliant people around me and my eagerness to add value to the conversation that keeps me motivated to stay curious and constantly learn.
How would you describe your colleagues at NEA?
The team here is humble, hardworking, independent, and respectful. Being part of a team with these attributes is inspiring, and it offers a high standard to hold yourself to.
How did your college experience help influence who you are today?
During my years at Stanford and summers in between, I taught classes in bioengineering and machine learning to high school students. In a lot of ways, teaching shaped me into who I am, both as a person and as an investor. The biggest lesson I took away from the experience was to remain open to learning from others—regardless of their position or background.
“
“I believe we have deep expertise in healthcare—so much so that it breeds a willingness to build from scratch. We know what it takes to move from an idea to a business in this category.”
