Startup Careers Coaching, Events, and Resources

Breaking into startups is harder than it looks: the roles are often unlisted, the processes are inconsistent, and your background (MBA, Consulting, IB, etc.) doesn't automatically qualify you the way you'd expect. During my MBA at Kellogg, I recruited for BizOps, Chief of Staff, and Strategic Projects roles across ~15 startups, ultimately accepting a Chief of Staff offer at Arch, a Series B FinTech. Before that, at Human Capital, I worked directly with startup recruiters to place talent across a Series A–D portfolio so I understand what hiring managers are actually looking for, and how to succeed in an interview process. I help MBAs, consultants, and operators with: - Positioning your background for generalist startup roles - Building and executing a networking strategy to get into roles - Resume and application prep that speaks the startup hiring language - Interview prep for long, ambiguous, multi-stage startup processes If you're trying to break into a BizOps or Chief of Staff role at a startup, book a free intro call.

Welcome! With over 20 years of experience in leadership roles across top companies like Flowcode and Bluecore, I bring a wealth of knowledge in executive coaching and startup career development. As the Founder of Surko Coaching, I specialize in helping high-potential leaders transition from operational roles to boardroom command, enhancing their executive presence and strategic decision-making skills. My approach is tailored to address self-limiting beliefs and build resilience, ensuring my clients are equipped to thrive in dynamic startup environments. Whether you're looking to refine your leadership style or navigate complex organizational changes, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Let's connect and chart your path to success!

Hello and welcome to my profile! If you come from a non-traditional background and want to break into the startup world, I can help :)

Welcome to my profile! With over 23 years of experience as an entrepreneur, business owner, and college professor, I specialize in guiding aspiring entrepreneurs and business professionals through the intricacies of startup careers. As the Co-Founder of Buy-Scale-Sell and Founder of Crown Consulting, I've successfully led clients in buying, scaling, and preparing for business exits, helping them create legacies they can be proud of. My hands-on experience includes leading the successful exits of Griffco Graphic Solutions and Queen of Wraps, where I implemented innovative marketing strategies and strategic partnerships to drive growth. Whether you're looking to unlock off-market opportunities, accelerate growth, or optimize exit strategies, I'm here to empower you to think boldly and achieve your dreams. Let's connect and take your startup career to the next level!

I built @instagrambrasil from zero to 16.3M followers by understanding that communities don't grow through mechanics — they grow through belonging. At Instagram, my role was discovering and elevating creators; the platform became the connective tissue. The work wasn't algorithm-first, it was community-first. I've replicated this at scale with the Speak Dreams Mentorship Program: 84 women matched across cultures and countries, 9.9/10 rating for life impact. The methodology was narrative — each mentee and mentor shared their story, and through storytelling, a global community emerged. Those stories became our acclaimed podcast, Chloé & Valentina. The lesson: communities that convert are built on authenticity and shared narrative. Today, whether you're building a founder community, a creator network, or a customer base, the principle is the same. I coach you on designing for community and belonging first. When people feel genuinely seen and connected, conversion follows.