Recruiting into Bizops for Series A-C

Hi all, I have a more traditional finance background (less brand name LMM IB, PE, VC-backed strategic finance, all in about 8 years of experience). I'm wanting to make a jump over to Bizops at a startup, as I'm really intrigued by the flexible nature of the work and being more involved in the operations of the company than my time in strategic finance. 

Given I don't have a typical background for that role, does anyone have any advice on how to both find opportunities and to stand out?

On finding opportunities should I be reaching out to the lead finance or strategy folks at startups I find interesting to learn more? 

On standing out - any suggestions on skills or projects I should take on to stand out?




 

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for transitioning into a BizOps role at a startup:

Finding Opportunities:

  1. Networking: Reaching out to lead finance or strategy folks at startups is a great approach. Networking is crucial, especially in the startup ecosystem. Engage with them to learn more about their operations and express your interest.
  2. Targeted Outreach: Identify startups that align with your interests and values. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with key personnel and attend industry events or webinars to expand your network.
  3. Job Boards and Startup Platforms: Utilize job boards specific to startups, such as AngelList, and platforms like Crunchbase to find Series A-C startups that are hiring.

Standing Out:

  1. Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your strategic finance background and any operational experience you have. Showcase your ability to understand and manage financial models, which is valuable in BizOps.
  2. Develop Key Skills: Focus on skills that are crucial for BizOps roles, such as:
    • Project Management: Demonstrate your ability to manage and execute projects efficiently.
    • Data Analysis: Show proficiency in analyzing data to drive business decisions.
    • Cross-functional Collaboration: Highlight your experience working with different departments and teams.
  3. Take on Relevant Projects: Engage in projects that mirror the responsibilities of a BizOps role. This could include:
    • Operational Efficiency Projects: Work on initiatives that improve operational processes.
    • Revenue Scaling: Participate in projects aimed at scaling revenue opportunities.
    • Vendor Management: Gain experience in managing vendor relationships and optimizing supply chains.

Additional Tips:

  • Leverage Your Network: Use your existing network from IB, PE, and strategic finance to get introductions to people in the startup world.
  • Showcase Flexibility: Startups value flexibility and adaptability. Highlight instances where you have successfully navigated changing environments or taken on diverse roles.
  • Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends in the startup ecosystem and consider taking courses related to startup operations, product management, or data analytics.

By focusing on these strategies, you can effectively position yourself for a BizOps role at a startup and stand out to potential employers.

Sources: As my username suggests, not sure what to do..., I've had more luck with entrepreneurship than with career: advice desperately needed, So you want to work at an investment bank..., Networking 101 – 8 tips from a “non-target” school student, Non-target average student declined BB trading ops offer, now having some second thoughts

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Reach out and network. I'm pursuing something similar at a few seed - Series A companies where I truly believe in their missions, in close touch with one of their CEOs about potential roles for next year.

I'm offering project / contract work with potential conversion to full-time.

Something I have noticed is, that 'traditional' blue-chip background preference tends to be true for later stage companies (Series C+ and beyond). Very hard to be considered for these roles as the hiring pools tend to be full of talented people (especially in today's economy / job market). Also a lot of these late stage companies lost a ton of valuation over the past few years and many of them might fizzle out / get acquired in the upcoming years. For that reason, I've been avoiding startups of these sizes.

 

I appreciate the feedback and think that all makes sense. On early stage vs. late stage, it feels like the tradeoff is that more pure "strategy" work is for the later stage companies whereas there is a lot more ad hoc problem solving and system building earlier stage. Is that your expectation?

How are you thinking about the upside of early stage vs. later? More room to advance if the company really takes off?

I'm currently applying to business school. I feel like there'd be opportunities to go really early stage at that point. Is there much differentiation in your thinking about as early as you can get in vs. post Series A round?



 

 
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