Emerging Investor Member Spotlight: Mohammed “Akib” Nawaz

Q: When did you first join OSEIN, and what have you been working on with the group?

A: I officially joined OSEIN back in December 2023 while I was finishing up the MBA at the Fisher College of Business. Professor Scott Griffin actually recommended me, and I’m really glad he did!

Right now, I have the privilege of serving as the Co-Chair of the Emerging Investors program. That means I get to mentor new alumni investors, evaluate exciting early-stage startups, and use my knowledge to help expand our network.

Q: You started your career overseas. What eventually led you to Ohio State?

A: I was born in Bangladesh and earned my Bachelors in Finance at the University of Dhaka. I started my professional life in corporate advisory and business development in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, specifically helping technology firms expand across Asia.

That solid foundation in strategy and market growth eventually brought me right here to The Ohio State University, where I earned my MBA in Finance and Data Analytics.

Q: What notable roles do you serve outside of OSEIN today?

A: Today, I’m a Senior Financial Analyst at Autodesk, a leading U.S. software company. I’m on the Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) team, managing long-range topline revenue planning and building automation systems that speed up forecasting and executive decision-making. My colleagues are kind enough to describe me as a trusted partner with a rare ability to connect strategy, technology, and human insight to solve complex business problems.

During my MBA, I probably spent more time outside the classroom than in it! I served as president of the Finance and Networking Clubs and was heavily involved in coaching case competition teams that went on to achieve national recognition. I’ve always been driven by a philosophy of servant leadership, whether it's delivering financial insights, optimizing systems, or bridging technology and venture capital, I approach every challenge with strategy, empathy, and curiosity, always aiming to elevate others.

Q: How has the Emerging Investors program specifically contributed to your success?

A: The Emerging Investors program has been a fantastic way to apply the best practices from my experience and my current work at Autodesk directly to the evaluation of early-stage companies. That process has really sharpened how I think about business models, traction, and market potential.

The skill enrichment I've gained here helped me connect with the Investor Relations, Corporate Development, and Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) teams at Autodesk. The senior leaders there have since taken an active role in mentoring and sponsoring my professional growth, which has been invaluable.

Q: You’re working toward becoming a venture capitalist. What specific work are you doing right now to advise founders and empower innovation?

A: At my core, I’m driven by curiosity and purpose. I truly believe that finance, technology, and AI aren't separate worlds; they’re interconnected tools for creating smarter businesses and stronger communities.

I continue to do the work I love by actively advising founders, evaluating companies, and empowering others to take bold, data-driven bets on innovation.

Q: In what ways has OSEIN shaped your journey in the venture ecosystem?

A: OSEIN has given me a front-row seat to the world of venture capital while allowing me to give back to my alma mater’s community. It’s been a rare and incredible opportunity to learn deeply while contributing meaningfully to something I genuinely believe in.

Beyond those professional connections, OSEIN has helped me build an identity within the broader venture ecosystem. Founders often reach out to me for feedback or mentorship, and those conversations have become a key part of my learning journey.

In many ways, OSEIN has shaped both my mindset and direction. It has strengthened my analytical skills, deepened my network, and reinforced my goals of pursuing a career in venture capital focused on helping people, ideas, and innovation reach their full potential.