Mr. Guren started in the venture capital/private equity business in
1975, with Continental Illinois Venture Corporation (CIVC), a
subsidiary of Continental Bank (Chicago). During his tenure with CIVC,
the firm’s investments ranged from Apple Computer to Yoplait to
Kohlberg, Kravis & Roberts. KKR took the firm into the buyout
investment business.
In 1981, Mr. Guren was recruited by William Blair to
co-found and manage William Blair Venture Partners (WBVP). He grew the
business to six professionals during three funds. Investments ranged
from the founding of The Sports Authority to the buyout of Sanford
Corporation to investments in various technology, healthcare and cable
television companies.
Robert Baird recruited Mr. Guren in 1996 to manage the Baird Capital
funds. While there, BCP grew from two to five professionals with a
focus on outsourcing and temporary staffing.
Mr. Guren joined Allied Capital in 1999, and stayed through 2002. He
managed the Chicago office, and was on their Investment and Operating
Committees.
He is now the Managing Director for the Hyde Park Angels, and a senior advisor for OCA Ventures.
Mr. Guren is a recipient of the Stanley C. Golder Medal which
“acknowledges individuals who have made profound and lasting
contributions to the private equity industry in Illinois”. He is a
graduate from the University of Wisconsin, and received an MBA from the
Wharton Graduate School.