Brendan Smith is the Vice President of Growth at GetFresh Ventures, where he leads strategy, sales, and investment initiatives for high-growth startups across North America. With a focus on scaling early-stage companies, he has played a key role in launching more than 50 startups, directly contributing to over $45M in revenue growth. His expertise spans go-to-market strategy, investment readiness, and revenue operations, helping founders navigate the complexities of fundraising and business expansion.
Brendan’s path into venture growth was anything but traditional. Beginning his career in hospitality management at some of Vancouver’s top restaurants, he developed a deep understanding of customer experience, business operations, and high-pressure decision-making – skills that now inform his approach to building and scaling companies. His ability to blend strategic insight with practical execution has made him a trusted advisor to both founders and investors.
Beyond his role at GetFresh Ventures, Brendan serves as a strategic advisor to multiple startups, guiding them through market expansion, financing, and corporate partnerships. He has worked closely with founders to refine business models, secure key partnerships, and optimize sales strategies that have led to sustainable revenue growth and successful fundraising outcomes.
A UBC Sauder alum, Brendan further refined his global business perspective through studies in Europe at Copenhagen Business School and Asia at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen) – immersing himself in international markets and cultural nuances that shape modern entrepreneurship.
Outside of work, Brendan applies his strategic mindset to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where he values the discipline’s emphasis on adaptability, problem-solving, and precision – abilities that mirror the demands of venture growth. A certified sommelier, he also enjoys collecting, trading, and sharing wines from around the world. You might find him sharing the rich aromas and complex flavors of a new vintage while debating tasting notes with colleagues and friends.