THE PERSON

Lead

A generalist focused on getting to “Yes”. My career has been defined by a transition from the abstract to the tangible: moving from designing data architectures to optimizing the physical flow of goods across borders. Whether it is a data pipeline or a supply chain, the core interest remains the same: Systems. I am analytical at the high level, intuitive at the low level, and unapologetically unconventional in my approach.

Architecture of a Career

I spent 15 years building software that powers modern industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jzerbe My work has always been at the intersection of complex data and high-stakes decision-making:

  • Intelligence & Governance: At Immuta, I designed data provisioning solutions for enterprise clients, leading evaluations to ensure stakeholders made the right buying decisions for their data platforms.
  • AI & Search: As a Technical Product Owner at Koverse, I led the development of AI-guided search products and built operational processes for intelligence products designed for non-technical decision-makers.
  • Energy & Environment: At Tendril Networks, I managed the launch of novel machine learning technology for smart-thermostat load shifting. This system reduced business costs by 80% and secured multi-million dollar contracts with major utilities.
  • Compliance & Scale: At Workiva, I contributed to the Digital Review suite used for SEC and SOX compliance, helping scale a platform where usage tripled during my tenure.

Current Venture: Vraid Systems

In 2020, I took my background in data engineering and applied it to the “dirt” and “grit” of global logistics. As the General Manager of Vraid Systems, I focus on delivering construction materials, telecom equipment, lab disposables, and consumer packaged goods faster and more efficiently than traditional players.

My goal is to strip away the friction from physical trade using the same rigor I once applied to software re-architecture.

Personal Stack

I am not just a founder; I am a practitioner of the integrated life.

  • Research: I was a licensed Investment Advisor Representative, a role that fuels my interest in arbitrage and the mechanics of the US caste system.
  • The Field: When I’m not analyzing supply chains or writing “field notes”, I’m likely on a splitboard or mountain bike, navigating the same rugged landscapes where our mining and ranching clients operate.
  • Lifestyle: My path is in mastering my ego and willpower as a “Protector” and “Mentor”. Financial and schedule freedom, challenging and testing people’s mettle to bring out their strengths, and bypassing piousness or correctness for the public good are core. https://paulgraham.com/love.html Enneagram + Human Design then ask an LLM “Can you explain the attached documents?” with your PDF results.
  • Foundation: I hold a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Minnesota, with an emphasis on Databases and Networking: the original “logistics” of the digital world. https://github.com/jzerbe
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