Dontae Rayford, residing and working in Southern California, is an established technology executive with a deep passion for scaling innovative technologies, especially those that could significantly benefit historically underserved communities.

Currently, Rayford handles numerous professional roles. He provides platform advisory for Black Operator Ventures, an Oakland, CA-based seed fund founded by Black tech pioneers aiming to invest in Black enterprises. Concurrently, he holds the director of category management position for Indeed, focusing on Food & Beverage and other high-priority verticals. Rayford's zeal for teaching is satiated by serving as an adjunct instructor at Southern New Hampshire University, often leading courses integral to the school’s MBA program.

Present Responsibilities

As a Los Angeles inhabitant, Rayford has been part of Black Operator Ventures since 2022. Since its inception in 2021, the firm has invested in seven companies, including WhoseYourLandlord, Inc., and Mayvenn. The firm facilitates capital, business acumen, and access to vast networks for the founders it supports.

Rayford's tenure in his category management role at Indeed dates back to 2022. He maintains strong enthusiasm for how his work can eventually help more people find employment!

Rayford initiated his association with Southern New Hampshire University in 2018. He advises startups, frequently writes articles, and delivers talks on technology-centric topics.

Past Experiences

Rayford possesses a diverse work history. He served the State of California, focusing on issues influencing working-class communities. His career with Google commenced with ad sales and later transitioned to business development, where his specialization lay in virtual reality and immersive capture technologies.

Rayford's experience also covers technology startups, including the IoT connectivity platform IFTTT, YI Technology, and TuneIn. In 2019, he joined the business development team of Yahoo!/Verizon, which was undergoing a restructuring post-acquisition. He initially held the director position and later became the senior director of business development.

Community Service and Philanthropy

Rayford is strongly committed to giving back to the community. He currently serves on the board of Soup, a non-profit organization aiming for improved access to homeownership and affordable rental housing in the Bay Area. Their approach to the housing crisis includes the creation of Accessory Dwelling Units (or backyard homes), starter homes, and community land trusts. Rayford has been a part of Soup's board since 2021.

Rayford also committed three years as a mentor for Youth Business USA, an organization in Oakland dedicated to economically empowering youth in underserved communities to start and manage their businesses with the help of interest-free loans, guidance, and mentoring from seasoned entrepreneurs.

He also makes donations to other causes, including Sweet Farm, addressing the adverse effects of factory farming, and Fonkoze, an organization aiming to break the cycle of poverty in Haiti. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rayford, in collaboration with several Black professionals in Los Angeles, raised funds to buy over 20 laptops for students in LA to facilitate remote learning.

Education

Rayford holds a bachelor's and master's degree in sociology from Stanford University in Palo Alto. In 2014, he secured an MBA in entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial studies from the NYU Stern School of Business in New York City.

Early Life

Dontae Rayford was brought up in the working-class community of Lynwood in Los Angeles County.

Hobbies

Rayford finds pleasure in art collection and music during his free time. He exhibits a particular interest in the works of Black artists. Additionally, he has reignited his childhood passion for collecting sports cards.

Accolades, Endorsements, and Awards

Rayford's hard work, leadership, enthusiasm, and adeptness in decision-making, negotiation, and business development have earned him numerous colleague endorsements. His former manager, Justin Wong, admires his authenticity and commitment to company values, extending complete faith in his decision-making abilities. Alexander Tibbets, a peer, believes that every team and company Rayford contributes to will gain from his unwavering principles and leadership. Eliza Jones, another past manager, appreciates his ability to navigate organizations, manage complex projects, and close deals effortlessly. Richard Cox, a colleague, values Rayford's novel ideas, diligence, and efficiency.