Case 3.1: Sheila Mason & Craig Shepherd

Questions

1. What is Sheila Mason’s situation?

2. What is Craig Shepherd’s situation? How is it different from Sheila Mason’s situation?

3. What ethical issues are faced by Shepherd and Mason?

4. What about the non-disclosure agreement? As a venture capitalist, would you sign this agreement? Why or why not?

5. Why would Shepherd and Mason care whether a venture capitalist signs a non-disclosure agreement? Without an agreement, how can the firm protect its intellectual property and trade secrets?

6. If you are an upper level management employee of a firm, how can you safely terminate your employment to become involved with a new venture?