Author: Don McKenzie

Don McKenzie is a seasoned venture capitalist and organizational design expert based in Queensland, Australia.

As a principal at Tribe Global Ventures, a venture capital firm specializing in B2B technology companies, he plays a pivotal role in helping startups scale their operations into the US and UK markets. With nearly two decades of investment experience, including a significant focus on early-stage companies, McKenzie is known for his active investment approach, providing not only capital but also strategic advice, systems thinking, and mentorship to the companies in his portfolio.

McKenzie’s extensive background in organizational design has been shaped by his experiences with various organizations across Australia and the US. His affiliation with the Adizes Institute, founded by Dr. Ichak Adizes, has greatly influenced his philosophy and methodologies in structuring organizations. He employs the PAEI framework (Producer, Administrator, Entrepreneur, Integrator) to tailor organizational structures that align with a company’s unique mission and vision, steering clear of one-size-fits-all models. A key aspect of McKenzie’s work is fostering a healthy organizational design culture. He believes that organizations must create environments where restructuring is perceived as an opportunity for growth rather than a source of fear.

By emphasizing the importance of culture over structure, he advocates for a balance of roles and responsibilities that enhances trust and collaboration within teams. Through his leadership at Tribe Global Ventures, McKenzie not only invests in innovative companies but also ensures they receive the organizational design support necessary to navigate challenges and achieve sustainable growth. His commitment to aligning organizational structures with strategic goals positions him as a thought leader in the intersection of venture capital and organizational design, helping businesses thrive in a complex and evolving marketplace.