Former Adobe CEO joins venture capital firm
Two years after leaving the software company, Bruce Chizen takes on an expanded role at Voyager Capital as a venture partner.
As the CEO of Adobe Systems, Bruce Chizen was credited with turning that company into a software powerhouse. Now Chizen will bring his experience to a new role as a venture partner for Voyager Capital, a top venture capital firm.
Voyager Capital invests mostly in start-ups involved with early-stage digital media, software and servers, wireless, and Web infrastructure. Previously a member of Voyager's advisory board, Chizen will expand his role by working with budding technology entrepreneurs in the areas of digital media and software.
"Bruce possesses a rare combination of valuable market insight and senior business experience," said Bill McAleer, managing director at Voyager Capital. "His strong industry reputation, connections, and background in digital media and software will benefit our ventures."
Chizen made his mark in the industry as CEO of Adobe. After six years with the company, he took over the CEO reins from co-founder John Warnock in late 2000.
During his tenure, Chizen was the driving force behind Adobe's expansion into new markets. He oversaw the growth of the company's customer base beyond the graphic arts niche into the enterprise and general consumer arenas. He helped transform Adobe from a software vendor into a platform company, branching out onto the Web and open source, among other areas.
With Chizen at the helm, Adobe made some key deals, notably the acquisition of Macromedia in 2005.
After having tripled Adobe's revenues as CEO, Chizen exited the company in late 2007, placing it in the hands of then president and now CEO Shantanu Narayen. In an interview with CNET News, Chizen spoke about his decision to leave Adobe at the time.
Prior to his role at Adobe, Chizen served in several executive positions at Claris. He also worked in the merchandising group at Mattel Electronics and as a regional sales director at Microsoft.