Jean de La Rochebrochard

Jean de La Rochebrochard is Managing Partner at Kima Ventures, where he exclusively manages and invests the capital of French telecom billionaire Xavier Niel in early-stage startups worldwide. Since joining Kima Ventures in 2015 at Niel’s invitation, Jean has become one of the most influential early-stage investors in France and Europe, leading Kima’s exceptionally active pace of over 100 investments annually and cultivating a portfolio that includes more than 1,170 companies and 17 unicorns. His unique role makes him the primary steward of Niel’s personal venture portfolio—every decision Jean makes directly reflects the trust and autonomy granted by one of Europe’s most celebrated entrepreneurs. Jean’s journey to this position is one marked by grit and adaptability, from building digital tools for his family’s restaurant business in Paris to advising startups on M&A at Global Equities and serving as a key figure at the Paris-based accelerator The Family. His investment philosophy centers on discipline, rapid execution, and placing founders at the heart of every decision. He is known for maintaining a direct line to Niel, routinely updating him on deals and ensuring the Kima portfolio is always at the forefront of European innovation. Jean is also the author of "Human Machine," which explores personal performance and fulfillment—a topic that echoes in his demanding professional routine and dedication to endurance sports such as Ironman triathlons. He holds a Maîtrise in Corporate Finance from Université Panthéon Sorbonne (Paris I), a Master’s in Corporate Finance from EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht, and a Master’s in International Strategic Management from Université Panthéon Sorbonne (Paris I), as well as the INSEAD Coaching Certificate. Fluent in French and English, Jean continues to drive forward Xavier Niel’s vision to connect with, invest in, and empower the world’s most ambitious founders.