Dontae Rayford, a technology executive based in Southern California, is ardently invested in expanding emerging technologies, especially those potentially uplifting historically underprivileged communities.

 

Rayford balances several professional roles presently. He advises Black Operator Ventures, a seed fund based in Oakland, CA, created by Black tech entrepreneurs with a mission to invest in Black businesses. He also assumes the role of director of category management for Indeed, honing in on the Food & Beverage industry along with other vital sectors. Maintaining his passion for education, Rayford is an adjunct instructor at Southern New Hampshire University, leading many online MBA courses.

 

Current Engagements

 

As a Los Angeles local, Rayford has been a part of Black Operator Ventures since 2022. Established in 2021, the venture has aided seven enterprises, including WhoseYourLandlord, Inc., and Mayvenn. The firm offers monetary support, business wisdom, and networking opportunities to the founders they endorse.

 

At Indeed, Rayford commenced his category management role in 2022, profoundly dedicated to how his work can aid more individuals in finding employment.

 

Since 2018, Rayford has served Southern New Hampshire University, relishing his role in advising startups. Additionally, he frequently authors articles and shares his insights on technology-related subjects.

 

Past Positions

 

Rayford boasts a diverse professional background. He has served the State of California, dealing with issues impacting working-class communities. His tenure at Google ranged from ad sales to business development, where he honed his skills in virtual reality and immersive capture technologies.

 

His resume includes technology startups such as IFTTT, YI Technology, and TuneIn. In 2019, Rayford was part of the business development team at Yahoo!/Verizon following their acquisition, initially as a director and then advancing to senior director of business development.

 

Community Service and Philanthropy

 

Rayford's dedication to social causes is manifested through his role as a board member of Soup, a nonprofit organization striving for improved access to homeownership and affordable rental housing in the Bay Area. They approach the housing crisis with solutions like Accessory Dwelling Units, starter homes, and community land trusts. Since 2021, Rayford has been an active member of Soup's board.

 

He also spent three years mentoring Youth Business USA, an Oakland-based initiative supporting underserved communities' youth to start and manage their businesses. They offer interest-free loans, counsel, and mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs.

 

Rayford also contributes to causes such as Sweet Farm, which focuses on the ill effects of factory farming, and Fonkoze, a group working towards ending poverty in Haiti. During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rayford collaborated with Black professionals in Los Angeles to raise funds for buying laptops for students requiring devices for remote learning.

 

Education

 

Rayford holds a bachelor's and master's degree in sociology from Stanford University, Palo Alto. In 2014, he earned an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business, New York City, focusing on entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial studies.

 

Early Life

 

Dontae Rayford was raised in the working-class neighborhood of Lynwood in Los Angeles County.

 

Hobbies

​

When not working, Rayford indulges in art collection and music. He has a particular interest in collecting the works of Black artists. He has also rekindled his childhood love for collecting sports cards.

 

Accolades, Endorsements, and Awards

 

Rayford has garnered numerous commendations from colleagues for his leadership, determination, passion, and adeptness in decision-making, negotiation, and business development.

 

Justin Wong, who formerly managed him, lauds Rayford's authenticity and integrity in embodying his company's values. Alexander Tibbets, a colleague, is confident that Rayford's leadership and principles will enrich any team or company he works with. A former manager, Eliza Jones applauds his skills in navigating organizations, managing complex projects, and closing deals. Richard Cox, another colleague, appreciates Rayford's innovative ideas, relentless work ethic, and efficiency.