Our Team

Lital Leshem is a seasoned entrepreneur, corporate advisor, and expert in defense and security; with extensive experience in strategic investments and scaling high-impact startups. She co-founded Carbyne, a cutting-edge emergency communications technology company, where she played a key role in raising $128 million. Following her work at Carbyne, Lital became a Partner at Frontier Resource Group, where she focused on defense, aviation, and cybersecurity investments. A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Lital is also a founding member of the UAE-Israel Business Council. With 11 years of military and intelligence service as a Major (Res.) in the IDF’s Southern Command, she continues to serve in the reserves where she specializes in intelligence and security operations. She was called to duty on October 7th, 2023.

Lee Moser is an experienced fund manager who has raised and deployed hundreds of millions of dollars across multiple funds. She is the Managing Partner of AnD Ventures, where she leads the firm’s strategic direction and investment initiatives. Prior to AnD Ventures, Lee served as the youngest-ever Chief of Staff to Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren in Washington, DC. She also played a pivotal role in expanding BlackRock’s presence in Israel. Lee is one of the founders of Brothers and sisters for Israel, one of the largest civilian aid organizations in Israel. Lee holds a Bachelor’s degree from Tel Aviv University and an MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.

Ziv Avtalion is a strategic leader and expert in defense technology, logistics, and digital transformation, with extensive experience in modernizing military operations. As a Brigadier General (Res.) in the IDF, he led the Digital Transformation Directorate and Technology Division, spearheading multi-billion-dollar projects that enhanced operational efficiency and military superiority. Following his distinguished military career, Ziv founded 55 AIM Ltd., a strategic consulting firm specializing in digital transformation and advanced technology solutions. At Protego Ventures, he brings his deep expertise in defense innovation, cybersecurity, and operational strategy to support the next generation of breakthrough defense technologies.

Tal Kelman brings over 30 years of leadership and technical expertise to Protego Ventures as a strategic advisor. He formerly served as head of strategy and the Iran Directorate at the IDF’s Strategic Planning and Cooperation Directorate (J5), head of the Strategic Division, and Air Force Chief of Staff. During his distinguished military career, he commanded elite air bases, established the F-16I squadron, and led the IAF Flight Academy. An accomplished F-35I pilot with over 5,500 flight hours, he shaped the IDF’s long-term strategy and strengthened international defense partnerships. His operational expertise and strategic vision make him a key asset in advancing next-generation defense innovations.

Mandy Rotner is a Certified CPA with over 16 years of experience in financial positions within venture capital firms, and private, and public companies. Prior to her position at AnD Ventures, Mandy worked as a Controller for a major family office in Israel, where she managed critical financial functions. Her career began as a Senior Auditor at Ernst & Young, where she gained valuable insights into financial auditing. Mandy currently serves as the CFO at AnD Ventures, a role she has held for the last two years. At AnD Ventures, Mandy plays a pivotal role, assisting the fund as well as studio and portfolio companies in their financial endeavors. Mandy holds a B.A. in Accounting & Economics from Tel Aviv University, which has provided her with a strong foundation for her successful career in finance and accounting.

Perri Finkelstein brings extensive experience working with startups and founders to drive strategic growth. Originally from the U.S., Perri began her career in marketing at leading firms, managing clients such as IBM, American Express, Pepsi, and IHG Hotels, before relocating to Israel. After earning her MBA from Tel Aviv University focused on technology and venture creation, she immersed herself in Israel's dynamic startup ecosystem and held GTM roles at early-growth startups. Transitioning to the venture capital world, she led business development efforts at Team8 across Cybersecurity, Enterprise SaaS, Fintech, and Digital Health. Perri's passion lies in fostering meaningful relationships, empowering founders, and delivering measurable impact, which she now channels into creating value for Protego Ventures’ portfolio.

​​Danielle's background is grounded in diverse experiences. With a B.A. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and a history of event planning, she deeply appreciates the value of creating memorable experiences and is passionate about forging connections and building collaborations. Her time serving in the IDF's foreign relations unit honed her logistical skills, equipping her to navigate the world of venture capital and seek mutually beneficial partnerships. In her current role as Investor Relations Manager, Danielle manages day-to-day communications and relationships with the fund’s existing Limited Partners (LPs). In addition, Danielle’s passion for building connections, meeting new people, and nurturing collaborations within the entrepreneurial ecosystem shines in her work through quarterly events both locally and globally.

Ifa joins Protego Ventures after holding various leadership roles at fast-growing startup companies. She brings a diverse background in investments, product development, and AI, having driven growth and innovation across the US, GCC, and European markets. Ifa has developed deep expertise across multiple sectors, including FinTech, E-Commerce, Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, Consumer Tech, Travel Tech, Health Tech, and Defense Tech. With her passion for building connections and nurturing collaborations within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, she plays a pivotal role in identifying and fostering high-potential opportunities for Protego. Ifa holds a BA in Communication from Reichman University.