Nexa Equity, a San Francisco-based private equity firm specializing in partnering with high-growth vertical SaaS companies, has announced the addition of three senior leaders to its investment and operating teams. The appointments come as the firm builds on its strong momentum following the close of Nexa Equity Fund II. This oversubscribed $390 million fund brings its assets under management to more than $1 billion.
Peter Stefanski joins as Partner from Thoma Bravo, where he spent nearly 15 years investing in and scaling category-defining software companies. He played key roles in several major platforms, including ABC Fitness, Autodata, Deltek, J.D. Power, Medallia, Planview, PowerPlan, QAD, TRADER Corporation, and TravelClick. Stefanski began his career in M&A at Barclays and holds a BSBA in Finance and Accounting from Georgetown University. He was recognized by GrowthCap in 2024 as one of the top software investors of the year.
Joining him on the investment team is Blake Shott, who joins as Principal from Sumeru Equity Partners. Shott brings deep experience in sourcing, executing, and scaling application-software investments, having worked with companies such as 360Learning, beqom, Consensus, Firstup, JobNimbus, and Loopio. He began his career in technology investment banking at William Blair and is a graduate of the University of Southern California.
Nexa also recently welcomed Jason Canavan to its investment team. Canavan, formerly of Lead Edge Capital and LLR Partners, adds a strong foundation in growth-oriented software investing.
On the operating side, Nexa has appointed Conor Barber as its fourth dedicated Operating Partner. Barber brings over a decade of software development experience, having held key roles at Apple, Airbyte, and other leading technology companies. He will work closely with founders and technical leaders across Nexa’s portfolio to drive the adoption of practical AI tools that enhance efficiency and enable the creation of AI-powered software solutions.
The expanded leadership team represents Nexa’s continued commitment to its founder-first, operator-led model, which helps portfolio companies scale through targeted operational support, go-to-market execution, and a disciplined M&A strategy. With Nexa Fund II, the firm will continue investing in vertical SaaS companies that solve real-world problems and are positioned for rapid growth through operational excellence and innovation.
KEY QUOTES:
“Peter and Blake are highly accomplished software investors who share our founder-first philosophy, and Conor’s deep expertise in AI and technology meaningfully strengthens our ability to help entrepreneurs scale category-defining companies. Together, these additions expand our capacity to act as a high-conviction, hands-on partner to founders as they grow their businesses.”
Vlad Besprozvany, Founder and Managing Partner of Nexa Equity
“Nexa has built a unique model around concentrated investing, hands-on operational support, and a deep commitment to high-growth vertical SaaS software. I’m excited to help extend that playbook and support the next wave of visionary founders as they grow their exceptional software companies into true category leaders.”
Peter Stefanski, Partner at Nexa Equity
“Nexa’s culture is grounded in a collaborative approach to scaling founder-led businesses. I look forward to partnering with teams shaping the future of their industries through innovative software.”
Blake Shott, Principal at Nexa Equity
