Michael Elias

Michael has been at the forefront of the development of European technology private equity as it grew from a fledgling niche in the 1980s into the multi-billion dollar market it is today.

Michael has led investments in a range of categories including enterprise/SaaS software, semiconductors, and online advertising. His investments have included online advertising network Adviva Media (acquired by Specific Media), tunable laser provider Altitun (acquired by ADC Telecommunications), semiconductor IP vendor Chipidea (acquired by MIPS), video advertising specialist GoViral (acquired by AOL Inc.), derivatives pricing specialist Monis (acquired by Sungard Data Systems), online performance marketing services provider Next Performance (acquired by Rakuten), WiFi chip developer No Wires Needed (acquired by Intersil), mobile connectivity provider Paragon Software (acquired by Openwave), WiMAX chip business Sequans (NYSE:SQNS), and managed security services provider Ubizen (acquired by Cybertrust). In addition, he oversaw Kennet’s investment in cloud-based environmental, health and safety software vendor Rivo Software (acquired by Sphera) and wireless audio chip business STS (acquired by SMSC).

Michael founded Kennet in 1997. Earlier, he was responsible for establishing the international operations of investment firm Thompson Clive & Partners in Silicon Valley and in Paris.

Michael holds a B.A. with highest honours from Harvard University and received an M.Sc. from Cambridge University where he was a Marshall Scholar.

Born in the United States, Michael has lived in several European countries and speaks fluent French.