Christophe Gerlach, an alumnus of Cornell University, has transitioned from investing in HR technology startups to launching his own venture. After nearly two years with General Atlantic, he sought to return to entrepreneurship, having previously co-founded a successful food delivery service during his college years.
In late 2022, Gerlach partnered with Pedro Bobrow, a former product manager at Lyft, to establish Comp, an innovative HR tech startup aimed at transforming human resources in Brazil. Comp is developing AI-driven software designed to streamline various HR functions, including recruitment, compensation structuring, and performance evaluations.
A distinctive feature of Comp is its integration of experienced HR executives who collaborate with clients to devise tailored strategies rather than merely acting as consultants. Gerlach emphasizes that these professionals serve as extensions of existing HR teams, significantly enhancing the software's effectiveness.
These seasoned executives initially perform tasks manually, which allows them to train the AI in best practices, ultimately leading to a fully autonomous system capable of executing traditional HR functions. Comp aims to redefine the landscape of HR services by offering not just software but a comprehensive HR solution.
Recently, Comp secured $17.25 million in a Series A funding round led by Khosla Ventures, marking the firm's inaugural investment in a Brazilian startup. Keith Rabois, a general partner at Khosla, has joined Comp's board as part of this strategic partnership.
Positioning itself as a modern alternative to traditional compensation consultancies like Mercer and Korn Ferry, Comp is also competing with established global HR platforms such as Rippling and Workday. Gerlach notes that the absence of conventional HR software among many Brazilian companies presents a unique opportunity for Comp to introduce its automated model without directly competing with existing solutions.
Comp has already begun to gain traction in Brazil, attracting a diverse client base that includes notable companies like Nubank and QuintoAndar. With plans for expansion into the U.S. and other international markets, the startup is poised for significant growth. The Series A round also saw participation from existing investors Kaszek and Canary, alongside new backers Abstract Ventures and Endeavor Catalyst.