Publications
Publications
- July 2024
- HBS Case Collection
Jacqueline Cook at Vendasta: Debating an IPO
By: Reza Satchu, Tom Quinn and Andrew Kosc
Abstract
In May 2021, after a surge in demand for digital services that prompted high valuations for startups across the Canadian tech sector, Saskatchewan-based Vendasta entered the final stages of the initial public offering (IPO) process. COO Jacqueline Cook had invested her life savings in stock options and, even though she was not a founder, was just as excited as any other executive. However, some executives saw warnings signs that contradicted bankers’ rosy predictions for the IPO. Additionally, Cook had just given birth to her second child, and was wrestling with whether and how to balance her chaotic home life with her increasing responsibilities.
Keywords
Business Growth and Maturation; Business Startups; Interpersonal Communication; Cost vs Benefits; Forecasting and Prediction; Business Cycles; Entrepreneurship; Fairness; Capital Markets; Private Equity; Investment Banking; Stock Options; Financial Markets; Initial Public Offering; Institutional Investing; Price Bubble; Digital Platforms; Digital Transformation; Internet and the Web; Leadership; Growth and Development Strategy; Managerial Roles; Agreements and Arrangements; Going Public; Ownership Stake; Performance Expectations; Work-Life Balance; Strategic Planning; Business and Stakeholder Relations; Rank and Position; Risk and Uncertainty; Opportunities; Happiness; Reputation; Status and Position; Well-being; Information Technology Industry; Retail Industry; Canada
Citation
Satchu, Reza, Tom Quinn, and Andrew Kosc. "Jacqueline Cook at Vendasta: Debating an IPO." Harvard Business School Case 825-037, July 2024.