Remembering Brian Dovey and his book “The Idea is the Easy Part”

I was deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Brian Dovey, a partner at Domain Associates and a family friend on August 27. Imagine my surprise at receiving a signed copy of his new book, synthesizing so much of what he had learned in decades of investing in young entrepreneurs and nurturing companies that have made a material improvement in human health and flourishing.

Years-long opportunities to exchange ideas

I first met Brian Dovey, a venture capitalist and entrepreneur, through Eileen Galton, a dear friend of mine who worked with Brian and his partner, Jim Blair, at their investment firm Domain Associates. Unlike a lot of firms operating in this space, Domain partners always sought to form win-win relationships with their investors, entrepreneurs, and other business partners. As Jim puts it, “We started Domain to create new companies that could translate scientific and technological breakthroughs into new, innovative medicines and medical products that make a difference in people’s lives.”

The company has had an incredible track record, and some of Brian’s own investments have made a big difference in people’s lives. From brand-name breakthroughs like the Epi-pen to major players in the world of biotech today, such as Amgen, since 1985…