Team

The partners behind Velen & Vale.

Layla Haddad

Layla Haddad

Founding Partner · New York · Dubai

With over fifteen years advising growth companies across the US and the Gulf, Layla brings a rare cross-border perspective to every mandate. Her approach is deeply relational: she knows the principals behind the capital, not just the funds.

Before founding Velen & Vale she led investor relations and advisory work for a Dubai-based multi-family office and spent eight years on Wall Street advising US mid-market businesses on cross-border growth strategy.

Marco Verani

Marco Verani

Managing Director, Europe · Zurich · London

Marco began his career in private banking in Zurich, later moving to London where he built relationships with single-family offices and European growth funds.

He has advised US founders on dozens of international capital strategies, from early-stage advisory to growth-stage mandates, and leads our Zurich and London coverage.

Omar Khaled

Omar Khaled

Managing Partner · Dubai · New York

Omar brings a wealth of experience as a former Corporate & Investment Banker at Standard Chartered in Dubai, one of the leading banks across the region and the UK.

He also served as a capital advisor at Nassau Street Partners on Wall Street, guiding cross-border investments and strategic growth.

Tara Al-Mansoor

Tara Al-Mansoor

Vice President · Dubai

Tara specializes in bridging Gulf-based capital with US-based high-growth opportunities.

Her extensive network among family offices ensures seamless execution and strategic alignment for our partners.

Mark Riad

Mark Riad

Managing Partner · New York · London

Mark leads our transatlantic advisory efforts, overseeing key relationships and structuring complex equity rounds.

With over a decade of experience in capital markets, he provides unmatched insights into international expansion.