New Advisor Spotlight: Paul Yee on People-Centered Finance

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Paul Yee is a seasoned chief financial officer and advisor who has served multiple organizations including Peet’s Coffee, Method Products, and Stitch Fix. Through ICA, he supports entrepreneurs in our community, bringing a people-centered approach to financial management and leadership. We’re lucky to have him aboard!

‍What was your first job and what has stayed with you since?

‍My very first job was at Burger King. I was 15, and they put me right in the front dealing with customers and money, which was nerve-wracking. It was quite hard! I did not like being in front of customers and the pressure, but it made me really think about customer service and how people are treated. I learned a lot about treating people with respect and recognizing when others may feel uncomfortable. I think it brought empathy into my heart, and I’ve carried that through all my subsequent roles.

You’ve served as a CFO multiple times. How did you find your way to that path?‍

My career path was not linear. I graduated with a liberal arts degree and worked as a book editor. I was the ghostwriter, editor, and even took orders on the phone. The books made no money, and I started analyzing why and I found that very interesting. And then I heard about business school

Getting an MBA opened my eyes to the world of business, and more importantly, to applying my communication and writing skills in a new realm, the world of numbers. I ultimately found the right fit. Because I didn’t come up through a traditional finance path, I approached the role differently. Finance can be seen as cost-driven or about saying no. I learned to be collaborative and to appreciate the creative process, even when the return on investment isn’t immediately clear. In the end, I found my calling, not just in numbers, but in working with and inspiring people.

What is the most impactful advice you’ve received, and how does it shape your guidance to founders?‍

Early in my leadership journey, after I was complaining about something, a CEO pulled me aside and said, ‘Don’t forget, you are the company.’ That moment stayed with me. I realized I could no longer observe from the sidelines, I had responsibility for outcomes.

For founders, there is a similar realization. At a certain point, leadership becomes less about doing everything yourself and more about supporting your team. It’s about creating the conditions for others to succeed and learning how to inspire.

What drew you to advising with ICA?‍

In this chapter of my life, I’ve focused on three areas I care deeply about: running, Asian leadership, and Oakland. I was born in Oakland, and I’m inspired by its grit, heart, and entrepreneurial spirit.

ICA aligned naturally with those interests: supporting founders, particularly women and people of color, who may not have access to the same resources. I also genuinely enjoy solving problems. ICA’s model, bringing together financial capital, human capital, and community, really resonated with me. It’s been a strong fit.

You’ve spoken about your commitment to Asian leadership. How does that inform your work?‍

I grew up in an East Asian immigrant household with the belief that if you work hard, you will succeed. I didn’t always identify as a leader, and that’s something I’ve reflected on. Now, I’m passionate about helping others bring their full selves forward. That means not simply conforming to traditional leadership molds, but understanding your own strengths and values. I believe in ‘quiet power,” in humility, hard work, and mutual respect. I encourage others to find their voice, be authentic, and adapt to their environment while staying grounded in who they are.

On working with ICA founders‍

Meeting the entrepreneurs has been incredibly energizing. There’s a real sense of purpose and momentum. I tend to take on a lot, but when the work is meaningful and brings joy, it feels worthwhile.

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30 Years of ICA Fund

This year, ICA Fund celebrates 30 years of backing great businesses and proving what’s possible when underrepresented founders get the support they deserve. To mark this occasion we will be lifting up the ICA Fund community that got us this far and charting the bold work ahead. Stay tuned for new founder stories, case studies on the innovations our portfolio companies are creating, and deep dives on how our model works. Join us in stewarding the next 30 years of ICA Fund — together we’re building the future of investing.