Charles Esther
Jessica Mah, founder of the investment firm Mahway, is currently involved in multiple legal disputes with former executives and investors.
Mah has filed a lawsuit accusing Justin Caldbeck, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist, of sexually harassing her.
At the same time, Caldbeck’s firm D Global Ventures (DGV), along with two former senior executives at Mahway, have filed separate lawsuits against Mah.
These lawsuits include allegations of misuse of company funds, workplace harassment, and age discrimination.
Background on Jessica Mah and Mahway
Jessica Mah is a well-known entrepreneur and investor based in Los Angeles.
She was recognised early in her career, appearing on Forbes’ “30 under 30” list in 2012 and featured in Inc magazine in 2015.
Mah founded inDinero, a fintech startup offering financial dashboards for businesses.
Later, she started Mahway, her venture builder and investment firm.
Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Justin Caldbeck
Mah alleges that Justin Caldbeck sexually harassed her during a business meeting in 2022.
According to her complaint, Caldbeck touched her thigh and made inappropriate advances after drinking.
She claims he repeatedly asked if she was interested in a sexual relationship and discussed his own sexual encounters with other women.
Mah also accuses Caldbeck of defaming her and attempting to pressure her into repaying three times the amount he invested.
Caldbeck denies these allegations through a spokesperson.
Counter Lawsuits Against Jessica Mah
Mahway’s former CFO William Mulholland and former president Walter Delph, alongside DGV, have filed lawsuits against Mah.
They accuse her of misappropriating company funds for personal luxuries such as a private jet, a Lamborghini lease, and vacations to events like Burning Man.
Delph’s lawsuit alleges inappropriate sexual conversations in the workplace and discriminatory remarks about older employees.
Mulholland claims Mah concealed a romantic relationship with Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google and a significant Mahway investor.
DGV accuses Mah of misleading the firm regarding Schmidt’s investment.
Workplace Environment and Management Issues
Delph’s complaint describes a chaotic work environment where Mah’s friends and partners would visit during work hours and sometimes appear partially undressed.
He also states that Mah subjected him to age-based ridicule, calling him an “old man.”
Mulholland claims he was pressured to resign after refusing to engage in illegal activities related to investor solicitation.
Delph alleges retaliation and wrongful termination after raising concerns internally.
Jessica Mah’s Statement on the Disputes
Mah said she attempted to resolve the dispute with Caldbeck privately before filing suit.
She emphasised her commitment to transparency, accountability, and standing up for her values despite possible backlash.
Background on Justin Caldbeck
Caldbeck resigned from Binary Capital in 2017 following public accusations of sexual harassment by multiple women.
He admitted to inappropriate behaviour toward female founders and investors at that time.
Industry and Legal Impact
These cases highlight ongoing challenges in the venture capital and startup world regarding workplace conduct and investor relations.
Both sides have presented serious allegations that could have wide repercussions depending on the outcomes in court.
