Tell-All with Melissa Westbrook, GC of Tech-Stars

// Workshop - Secret Session

Location: The Landing Boardroom (Downstairs)

Time: 3:30 PM – 4:015 PM

Speaker: Melissa Westbrook, Esq.

Abstract:

In this candid “Tell-All,” Melissa Westbrook, General Counsel of Techstars and former Senior Managing Director at Guggenheim Partners, shares lessons from her journey across billion-dollar funds and fast-moving startups. She will reflect on her experience as a Muslim revert navigating identity, community, and career, while speaking openly about imposter syndrome, career transitions, and resilience. Along the way, she’ll offer insights on leadership, the practice of law, and how AI is reshaping the future of work.

Speaker Biography:

Melissa Westbrook, Esq. — Melissa Westbrook is a seasoned private funds lawyer and executive with nearly 20 years in global investment management. At Guggenheim Partners, she rose to Senior Managing Director and Head of Private Funds, leading fund formation, joint ventures, and global expansion to Dubai, Norway, and the UK. In 2023, she became General Counsel and part of Techstars’ Executive Leadership Team, launching new funds and engaging in venture capital. A Muslim convert since 2018, she lives in New York with her husband and three children.