E378 | Evgenia Plotnikova, Dawn Capital: Navigating today's exciting AI landscape

Hello and welcome back to 'At The Cap Table”, a podcast series here at EUVC, where we explore the journeys and insights of some of the most influential leaders in venture capital. Today, we’re thrilled to have Evgenia Plotnikova, General Partner at London HQ’d Dawn Capital. From her start in investment banking during the financial crisis to her role now in VC, she talks about the challenges, successes, and what it takes to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. We dive into her work at Dawn, what it means to be a B2B software specialist, and her thoughts on navigating today's exciting AI landscape. Let's get into it!Go to eu.vc to read the core take-aways.Chapters:00:14 Guest Introduction: Evgenia Plotnikova00:20 Evgenia's Early Career in Investment Banking00:30 Transition to Venture Capital00:49 Invitation to Venture Escape Event01:24 Welcome to the Interview01:35 Evgenia's Journey to Dawn Capital02:01 Early Career Challenges and Insights03:19 Private Equity and the Shift to Venture Capital04:59 Joining Dawn Capital05:51 Dawn Capital's Focus and Specialization08:57 The Importance of Mentorship09:57 Team and Culture at Dawn Capital13:51 Challenges and Resilience in Venture Capital15:20 The Exit Environment in Venture Capital20:49 AI and the Future of Venture Capital22:34 Final Thoughts and Reflections22:47 Alternative Career Paths 24:06 Conclusion of the Interview00:41 Closing Invitation to Venture Escape Event