• Airbnb has hired Amazon VP Dave Stephenson as CFO ahead of its anticipated IPO in 2019.
• Stephenson spent 17 years as Amazon, most recently as VP and CFO of Amazon’s Worldwide Consumer Organization, responsible for all global website sales. He also spent a couple years as President and CFO of Big Fish Games.
• Stephenson is the second Amazon exec to join Airbnb this year, following Greg Greeley, who is president of Homes.

Raising a Series A is a huge accomplishment and closing it might feel like you’ve crossed the finish line but the pressure only goes up from here.

Startups working with leading edge technology know that hiring for the most in-demand skills comes with a cost — not just in salary but also in equity grant amounts. The right insight makes reaching your funding goals easier.

We had a lot of fun at our holiday party and are grateful to the investors, entrepreneurs and friends who were able to join us. This is a brief video capturing the vibe of the event.