Hanno Renner

Hanno Renner is a highly influential figure in the European tech ecosystem, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Personio, a leading HR software company based in Munich, Germany. Under his leadership, Personio achieved remarkable growth, culminating in a valuation of $8.5 billion in 2022, establishing it as one of Europe's most successful SaaS unicorns. Following his transition from the CEO role, Renner has become an active and strategic angel investor, leveraging his deep operational experience and extensive network to support promising early-stage startups.

Renner's investment thesis is heavily influenced by his background at Personio, with a strong inclination towards B2B SaaS, enterprise software, and HR technology solutions. He primarily focuses on European startups, particularly those based in Germany, aiming to foster the next generation of tech leaders in the region. His approach extends beyond mere capital injection; he seeks to provide mentorship, strategic guidance, and access to his vast industry knowledge, making him a highly sought-after investor for founders navigating the challenges of scaling a tech company.

As an angel investor, Hanno Renner has built a diverse portfolio, participating in numerous significant funding rounds. As of late 2023, his Crunchbase profile indicates participation in at least 13 investments. Notable companies in his portfolio include Tacto, an AI-powered supply chain platform, and Hive, an e-commerce fulfillment solution, both of which secured substantial funding rounds with his involvement. He has also invested in companies like Leapsome, a performance management platform, and Heyflow, a no-code builder, demonstrating his commitment to innovative solutions across various B2B verticals.

Renner's value proposition to startups is multifaceted. Beyond providing crucial early-stage capital, his experience in scaling Personio from a nascent idea to a multi-billion-dollar enterprise offers invaluable insights into product-market fit, team building, international expansion, and fundraising strategies. Founders benefit from his firsthand understanding of the operational complexities and growth hurdles inherent in building a successful SaaS business, making him a highly strategic partner rather than just a financial backer.