Tesla Chair Leaves Operating Partner Position at Blackbird VC

Image Credit: Reuters

Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm Steps Back from Blackbird VC Operating Role

Tesla chair Robyn Denholm has transitioned out of her role as an operating partner at Blackbird VC, Australia’s largest venture capital fund, while retaining her position as a board member and adviser, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Denholm, who was appointed by the Australian government last December to oversee a review of the country’s research and development performance, also announced on Wednesday that she would be stepping down as chair of the Tech Council of Australia. However, she will continue to serve as a board member of the industry group.

A Blackbird spokesperson confirmed that Denholm shifted into a board member role in 2024 and remains an adviser but did not provide further details. Sources stated that she no longer holds the operating partner title, though no reason was given for the change.

As of Wednesday, Blackbird’s website listed Denholm as an operating partner, but the title was removed by Friday. Her LinkedIn profile and Tesla’s website still reflected her previous role as of Friday.

Denholm originally joined Blackbird in 2021, with responsibilities that included advising late-stage startups on operational strategies, executive hiring, and partnerships. No official announcement has been made regarding changes to her role.

In addition to her work with Blackbird, Denholm has served as Tesla's chair since 2018. The company has faced increasing political scrutiny due to CEO Elon Musk’s involvement with the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Denholm was also among Tesla board members, including James Murdoch, who agreed to return up to $919 million to settle claims that they had overcompensated themselves.

Paraphrasing text from "Reuters" all rights reserved by the original author