Our Team
Co-Founders & Partners
The five founders bring to Astra over 100 years of industry, investment and operating experience in the Communications and Technology industries and have worked with premier institutions that have a long history of successful buyout investing in the sector. In the aggregate, the founders have closed over 35 corporate and private equity transactions, invested $5 billion of equity capital, arranged $15 billion of debt financing, and served on over 20 leading boards. The founders govern and manage Astra Capital Management, comprise the firm’s investment and operating committees, and play an essential role in the sourcing, governance and growth of Astra portfolio companies.
Kevin Beebe, Co-Founder
Mark Johnson, Co-Founder & Managing Partner
William Kennard, Co-Founder
Brian Kirschbaum, Partner
Raj Kumar, Partner & General Counsel
James Martin, Partner & Chief Financial Officer
Chris Pantoya, Partner
Investment Team
Since its founding in May 2014, Astra has built a strong team of deal and fund operations professionals. Astra investment professionals not only have strong private equity experience but also bring passion and intellectual curiosity to each transaction.
Daniel Ben-Ami, Partner
Alok Chatterjee, Managing Director
Operations
Stephanie Diaz, Chief of Staff
Co-Founder & Industry Advisors
The Industry Advisors have deep experience in particular areas of the Astra investment and operating strategy. These professionals provide additional sourcing capabilities with specialized sector focus, assist in the value creation process, help to evaluate potential investment opportunities, and provide insights regarding operational improvements post-investment.