Susanne Najafi

Founding Partner and Chairman

2016 - Current

BackingMinds is a Venture Capital firm that believes in the business of doing things differently. We look for entrepreneurs where others' don't. For us backing is more than capital. Backing is a mindset. Backing is building bridges and rolling up sleeves. Backing is commitment and teaming up with founders. Backers are investors who care a little more. We invest in scalable, customer centric businesses with a proven revenue model.

Chairman, Board member and Advisor for several companies

2016

Founder and Board member

2011

Clearlii is the leading (only) contact lense brand for pharmacies in the Nordics and provides retail with an omni-channel solution. Revenue SEK 50million, 10% EBIT-margin.

Member Board of Directors

2016 - 2018

Lindex is one of Europe’s leading fashion chains, with approximately 480 stores in 17 markets. Provided with expertise in digitization of the organization, omni-retail and in e-commerce. Active in hiring digitally savvy data driven CEO and drive digital mindset.

Member Board of Directors

2016 - 2018

Stockmann Group is listed on Helsinki Stock exchange. Stockmann Group consists of three divisions: Stockmann Retail, Real Estate and Lindex. Stockmann Retail operates in department store business and has distance retail operations through the Stockmann and Hobby Hall brands. The Stockmann Group’s consolidated revenue was EUR 1.3 billion in 2016. Provided with expertise in digitization of the organization, omni-retail and in e-commerce. Active in driving a data driven and digital mindset throughout board and management.

Investment Manager and Investment Committee

2015 - 2016

A Stockholm based early stage tech investor and accelerator.

CEO and Co-Founder

2011 - 2015

CEO and Founder of Unity Beauty Group (Parelle, eleven, today part of Youty group), one of Nordic's largest online retailers within beauty products with own stores. Main markets: Sweden, Finland and Norway.

Member of the Board

2013 - 2015

Hafa Bathroom Group is the Nordic region’s largest bathroom group.

Co-founder and CEO

2010 - 2013

Owner and CEO of Context retail specializing in pharmacy retail, pharmacy services and products. Owner of 2 pharmacies in Stockholm, Orfeus and Järva Apotek which was opened from scratch. Elected as Head of the Asssortment Comittee at Apoteksgruppen, responsibilities included strategic assortment work for 150 pharmacies in Sweden 2011-2012.

Marketing Mgr Fine Fragrances for Middle East & Indian Subcontinent

2007 - 2009

Responsible for 11 perfume brands including Hugo Boss, DolceGabbana, Gucci and Lacoste in the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent. Main specialty: Luxury brands. Brand managment.

Product Manager (ABM) Hair Care Nordic

2006 - 2007

Product Manager for Pantene & Premium Brands Nordic. Project leader in Multifunctional Business team.

Product Manager (ABM) Skin Care Nordic

2005 - 2006

Assignment: Responsible for daily operations and launches of brand extensions for Skin care in Nordic region Scope: marketing plans development, financial evaluation, consumer research, landscape assessment, advertising development and adaptation, execution of marketing plans and local amplifications. Area: Sweden, Norway, Finland