Based in our Santa Monica office, DeMarcus Williams is the Managing Director of SVB’s Early Stage Practice, joining by way of Zealot Networks, where he served as Vice President of Business Strategy. DeMarcus’s work at Zealot, including strategic planning, corporate development, and business development, is directly relevant to his current role at SVB, where he is focused on fostering collaboration within LA’s early stage technology/innovation ecosystem and leveraging SVB’s brand to add value to early stage entrepreneurs. Prior to joining Zealot Networks, DeMarcus was a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch’s Private Bank and Investment Group, where he focused on cultivating relationships with entertainment and technology communities.

As a vice president at Silicon Valley Bank on the Startup Banking team, Sophie Nazerian’s primary focus is on strengthening and showcasing the early-stage startup ecosystem in her hometown of Los Angeles. Ever passionate about the positive global impact that new technologies can have, Sophie leverages her enthusiasm, dedication and experience to support founders as they achieve their visions. Before joining SVB, Sophie gained experience working in a variety of sectors, including tech entrepreneurship, academia, government and corporate innovation. Her previous roles include serving as an engagement manager at Techstars and as a member of the community founding team at Project FoundED.