MEET OUR TEAM

Orientation

grIP's bench covers three key categories for founders: Go-To-Market, Strategy + Capital, and Protection + Compliance. Every grIP Operator and Mentor is exceptional at one thing and brought in for moments where that experience matters.

Find your problem. Find the right person for it.

Know exactly what you need? Each department also offers pre-scoped sprints with fixed deliverables, defined timelines, and a matched grIP Operator ready to go.

Department 1 of 3: Go-To-Market

For founders with a working product and real signal who know growth should be moving faster than it is. The problem may be pipeline, sequencing, positioning, or something underneath all three.

If you already know where the gap is, GTM sprints offer a faster path in.

Know exactly what you need? Start with a sprint

Every sprint is run by a matched grIP operator. Same bench, same standard, scoped for a specific problem.

Most common starting point

The GTM Diagnostic

For founders who know growth has stalled but can't locate the actual constraint.

You get: A written diagnosis of the specific blocker (pipeline, positioning, sequencing, or ICP) with a prioritized fix list.

Timeframe: 1 week · 1 deep diagnostic session + written output.

Start this sprint →

The Pipeline Rebuild

For founders with a working motion that isn't converting at the rate it should.

You get: A rebuilt top-of-funnel sequence (messaging, channel, cadence) restructured around the ICP that's actually converting.

Timeframe: 3 weeks · 3 working sessions + rebuilt sequence and written playbook.

Start this sprint →

The Positioning Sprint

For founders who have product-market signal but can't articulate why they win.

You get: A sharpened positioning statement, revised ICP definition, and updated messaging framework.

Timeframe: 2 weeks · 2 working sessions + written messaging document.

Start this sprint →
Anjani Annumalla — Go-To-Market · Strategy + Capital
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Anjani
Annumalla

Managed budgets north of $3B at Amazon. Raised $3M in capital for my own startup.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
  • Strategy + Capital
The problem I solve
I help founders build the team, business model, and go-to-market engine that turns 'we need funding' into 'we're worth more than we thought.' We often end up fixing adjacent problems before tackling the one they came in with, and the outcome ends up better than expected (raising $5M instead of $2M, for example).
What I've done
I launched Amazon Fresh in 10 different countries and launched a consumer brand, Bunafr, in one of the most crowded spaces with a unique value proposition, winning several awards along the way. I have built a unique business model in the one of the most complicated industries and pivoted a couple of times. I have strengths on how to attract the right talent which every founder need to learn, and finally lessons on what happens when executed with exit strategy in mind vs not. My background spans Amazon, Qualcomm, Coca-Cola, and Amdocs.
What working with me looks like
It's a combination of structured and as-needed. We set clear objectives together, but things come up along the way and we stay connected as needed. You get clarity on how to build your business — a growth plan covering hiring, fundraising, and strategic partnerships — built with an exit strategy in mind from the start.
How fast you'll see results
Most founders see clarity within 2-3 months.
Ashley Bowen — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Ashley
Bowen

Head of Strategy, 40 Yawgoo Consulting. Former Global Director of Marketing & Innovation at IMG/ Endeavor.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
Founders come to me thinking they have a brand problem, when what they actually have is a product problem — or an operational and structural issue masquerading as a marketing one.
What I've done
I have a deep background in innovation, working 1:1 with some of the world's most iconic brands, and bring an entrepreneurial, observational, futurist's mindset to every engagement. I previously served as Global Director, Marketing + Innovation at IMG/Endeavor; as Senior Director of GTM/Growth at ATHLETICON; and as Principal of Design Strategy + Growth at 40 Yawgoo Consulting. Spearheaded the creation and launch of a new product category in partnership with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, The Garcia Company, and Endeavor senior leadership Repositioned a global advisory firm from boutique to category contender, driving a triple-digit increase in qualified B2B and B2C sales pipeline through brand system development Built and scaled an AI-enabled training platform (named "Best in Class" by Forbes) to 1,000+ global participants with zero paid acquisition
What working with me looks like
I build and deploy systems — brand, growth, and strategic operational systems — that turn ambitious ideas into revenue-generating, scalable solutions. We work through weekly structured check-ins, and you walk away with a scalable pathway to recurring revenue, not just a set of recommendations.
How fast you'll see results
Depending on scope, most founders see results within 2 months.
Bill Hortz — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Bill
Hortz

Founder of the Institute for Innovation Development. 30+ years of financial industry engagement experience.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
"Prospects aren't responding to our value proposition" — but it's rarely the product or the value prop itself. It's the messaging delivery and the lack of engagement behind it.
What I've done
I have over 30 years of financial industry engagement experience — leading wholesalers across every financial sales culture and distributor type, and 10 years leading a strategic accounts group building bridges between his firm and the home office leaders of major financial distribution firms. I previously served as Director, Strategic Accounts at OppenheimerFunds, National Sales Manager at Templeton Funds Distributors, and Regional Director, Institutional Services at Neuberger Berman Management. I'm also the Founder of the Institute for Innovation Development, a financial services industry engagement strategy and strategic partner network. Built a strategic partner network guaranteeing content distribution through financial media/content partners with a combined subscription base of 300,000+ financial professionals and industry leaders Created and executed 12-month thought leadership branding campaigns with disciplined coordination across the financial services industry Delivered financial industry engagement services including strategic introductions and speaking, podcast, and press placements
What working with me looks like
We connect as-needed via email or Slack. You get multiple long-shelf-life thought leadership articles distributed throughout the financial industry, key marketing collateral with third-party validation, and messaging that unifies your sales force and client-facing professionals — plus the industry engagement opportunities and introductions that follow.
How fast you'll see results
You'll see progress relatively quickly, as your firm is immediately positioned and united
Blake Lerner — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Blake
Lerner

Former Supply Base Director at Boeing. Drove $50M+ in aerospace supply chain savings.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
I help founders navigate global supply chain and logistics from the ground up from sourcing, warehousing, tariff strategy, to supply chain.
What I've done
I previously served as Supply Base Director and Systems Engineer at Boeing Commercial Aircraft, Head of Partnerships and Sourcing at Bunafr Coffee, and Director of Supply Chain and Product Quality at Solum Tread. Drove $50M+ in aerospace supply chain savings through risk mitigation and simplification Established multiple startup supply chain systems from cradle to grave Built risk-mitigated, efficient sourcing and logistics networks by applying a broad industry view to each situation
What working with me looks like
We meet through weekly structured check-ins. You get cost savings, more stable manufacturing systems, and reduced operational risk and a real sourcing and logistics network, not just a set of talking points.
How fast you'll see results
Most founders see initial direction within 1-4 weeks.
Brian Doyle — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Brian
Doyle

President & CEO of Holden Advisors. Former VP of Marketing at General Electric/Genworth Financial. Grew multiple businesses 20%+ through value-based pricing

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
I help founders who are afraid they're leaving money on the table, but aren't sure why to identify their price and sales leakage while retaining their customers.
What I've done
Brian previously served as VP of Marketing at General Electric/Genworth Financial, VP of Sales at Maritz Customer Experience, and President & CEO of Holden Advisors. Grew multiple businesses 20%+ through value-based pricing Increased EBITDA by $10M+ several times through a combination of pricing strategy and go-to-market rollout Increased one client's revenue by $8M by coaching them through a tough procurement negotiation using a proprietary methodology — including wins against Walmart and Amazon
What working with me looks like
It's rare for advisors to offer both value-based pricing strategy and hands-on implementation. I set the right pricing strategy and roll it out with you, so you increase EBITDA without losing customers along the way. I also coach you directly through negotiations, even against tough procurement organizations. We work through weekly structured check-ins.
How fast you'll see results
As fast as 2 months.
Eva Platini Hernandez — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Eva Platini
Hernandez

VP of Brand Strategy at WHP Global. Signed $33M+ in licensing and expansion deals in 2026.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
I help founders turn their brand into a licensable, retail-ready platform that scales across categories, channels, and countries — without diluting what makes it valuable.
What I've done
I currently serve as Vice President of Brand Strategy and Business Development at WHP Global, where I lead BD across a portfolio of 15+ fashion and lifestyle brands including Vera Wang, rag & bone, G-Star RAW, Express, Bonobos, and Land's End. I previously served as Head of Brand Strategy & Licensing for ELLE and ELLE DÉCOR at Lagardère Group, and as Marketing Manager International at Coach Inc. Signed $33M+ in new business in 2026 across international expansion and licensing deals at WHP Global, spanning a portfolio generating ~$9B in annual retail sales across 80+ countries Grew ELLE/ELLE DÉCOR Americas business 20% in year one as one of four global regional heads of a $600M+ retail program, including directing and renewing a ~$100M Kohl's partnership Launched the ELLE DÉCOR Collection across 11 partners and 20+ categories (134M+ media impressions), closing multilingual deals (EN/FR/ES/PT) across 40+ markets
What working with me looks like
Founders typically come to me when their brand is outgrowing its first category, channel, or market and they sense the next move is bigger — but don't have the playbook to get there without diluting what got them this far. They leave with a defined expansion thesis, the licensing and partnership architecture to execute it, and the discipline to walk away from wrong-fit deals.
How fast you'll see results
Most founders leave the first 2-3 sessions with a sharpened expansion thesis, and see signed distribution deals within 3-9 months.
Greg Giddens — Protection + Compliance · Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Protection + Compliance

Greg
Giddens

Co-Founder and Partner of Potomac Ridge Consulting. Former Chief Acquisition Officer at the VA. Oversaw nearly $20B in federal spend.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
Companies come to me thinking they have a procurement problem, when it's usually a requirements or funding problem. Knowing how those pieces fit together is what unlocks success in federal contracting.
What I've done
I am a senior executive with over 36 years of experience in engineering, management, leadership, procurement, and program management, including 17 years as a member of the Senior Executive Service. I am the Co-Founder and Partner of Potomac Ridge Consulting, a firm with deep understanding of government agencies' critical mission needs and how to help the private sector deliver solutions that meet them. Previously, I served as Principal Executive Director for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Modernization until my retirement in November 2017 and was Chief Acquisition Officer (CAO) for the VA and Principal Executive Director for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction, where I oversaw almost $20B in spend. I also served as Executive Director of VA's Office of Policy and Planning, Enterprise Program Management Office. I am also a member of the Senior Advisor to Government Executives (SAGE) for the Partnership for Public Service, a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), a Director of the Procurement Round Table, and sits on the Board of Advisors for the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). I received the Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Executive in 2005 and Federal Computer Week's Federal 100 award in 2007 and 2017. Obtained a sole-source contract for a suite of products at the national level within a Cabinet-level Agency Gained market penetration for healthcare-related supplies and services in the federal market Oversaw almost $20B in spend as Chief Acquisition Officer for the VA
What working with me looks like
We connect as-needed via email or Slack — this is a low-friction, on-demand relationship rather than a structured program. You tap in when you hit a procurement, requirements, or political-risk question you can't solve alone.
How fast you'll see results
Most founders see increased presence and impact in the federal market within 9-15 months.
John Fundingsland — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

John
Fundingsland

Built commercial strategies and partnerships generating $100M+ in incremental revenue across Google, YouTube, and Alterra

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
I help founders build commercial engines that turn attention, partnerships, and distribution into durable growth.
What I've done
I bridge strategy and execution, having built commercial engines inside global companies and growth-stage businesses. I previously served as Global Head of Creative Partnerships at Google, Head of Product Marketing, Responsibility & Safety at YouTube, and Strategic Advisor, Brand Partnerships (Fractional Executive) at Alterra Mountain Company. Built commercial strategies and partnerships generating $100M+ in incremental revenue across Google, YouTube, and Alterra Closed and expanded multimillion-dollar partnerships with brands including Accenture, Forbes, American Express, Capital One, Spotify, and Moncler Rebuilt Alterra Mountain Company's enterprise partnerships organization, growing annual partnership revenue from ~$25M to $50M+
What working with me looks like
We work at defined project milestones.Founders leave with a commercial engine, not just a few big deals. They have a clear partnership strategy, a repeatable way to grow revenue, and an organization that can scale beyond the founder.
How fast you'll see results
The first win is usually focus. Once everyone's aligned on where growth will come from, execution gets faster and opportunities compound. That often happens within the first 30 days.
Joshua Kaplan — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Joshua
Kaplan

Founder & CEO of Beeline, Interim Chief Growth Officer at BrainPOP

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
When someone says "we just need to sell more," there are usually a number of underlying realities actually suppressing growth. I help uncover those realities, define the strategy to accelerate growth, and build actionable playbooks to make it happen.
What I've done
I am a growth strategy and value creation operational partner, and a founder myself. I’ve been in the seat, and it shows in how I work. I previously served as Founder & CEO of Beeline, Interim Chief Growth Officer at BrainPOP, Chief Growth Strategy Officer at 20nine, and Chief Revenue Officer / EVP of Growth & Digital Strategy at BrandShop. Earlier in my career, I spent nearly 8 years at eBay, first as Head of Enterprise Customer Success at True Action (an eBay Inc. company), then as Head of Enterprise Sales & Business Development, Marketing Solutions at eBay Enterprise. Helped multiple DTC brands build multi-year growth strategies across e-commerce, subscription, and customer engagement, delivering 3x revenue growth over 2-3 years Modeled growth scenarios for 3 B2B product and marketing solution companies, driving an average 35% increase in market share for each Optimized GTM strategy, team structure, and sales motions for 3 services companies, delivering 20%+ pipeline growth, 16% deal close improvement, and a 10% drop in customer churn in the first 6 months
What working with me looks like
We meet through weekly structured check-ins. I'm highly collaborative and focus on genuinely partnering with founders and leadership — not just advising from the sidelines. You get support building and evolving your business toward quantifiable growth, while minimizing and mitigating the risks along the way.
How fast you'll see results
Most companies start seeing progress and impact within 60 days.
Lauren Banyar Reich — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Lauren Banyar
Reich

Founder of LBR/PR. Twenty years generating billions of media impressions for founder-led brands.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
I help founders and companies go from underrecognized to undeniable by building the visibility, credibility, and authority they need to lead their category.
What I've done
I've worked in public relations for over 20 years and have run my own high-touch boutique PR agency, LBR/PR, for the past 11 years, working with clients ranging from bootstrapped startups to multinational businesses and nonprofits. Helped generate billions of media impressions for D2C product-based brands, raising trust, credibility, visibility, and sales Secured profile features in Business Insider, Forbes, MarketWatch, and Bloomberg across categories including D2C, B2B advisory, and AI thought leadership Delivered brand-burnishing recognition for clients, including a placement on the Inc. Female Founders 200 list.
What working with me looks like
Founders often come to me saying "we need PR to help with our raise." In truth, what they need is PR that builds trust, credibility, and visibility with a whole range of stakeholders, including investors, as a long-term play that also puts them in front of partners, clients, and customers. We work at defined project milestones, and you get high-impact, top-tier, or relevant regional and trade media coverage, not just a strategy memo.
How fast you'll see results
Most clients see results within three to six months, though we pride ourselves on delivering early and ongoing wins along the way.
Michael Lewittes — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Michael
Lewittes

Scaled an unknown magazine into US Weekly, growing it to $85 million a year in revenue, and later built and sold Gossip Cop

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
I help businesses and brands increase their visibility online so they actually show up where customers are looking. A lot of founders show up convinced their problem is money or if they could just raise more, everything would click. Usually that's not it. What's actually going on is product-market fit, and figuring out where real users get stuck with what you've already built.
What I've done
I scaled an unknown magazine into US Weekly, growing it to $85 million a year in revenue, and later built and sold Gossip Cop. I’m currently CEO and Founder of Ranktify, and spent time as a Writer and Editor for the Web Almanac. Helped an e-commerce company grow traffic more than 250% Increased visibility and traffic for a sports-related company 10x Grew online sales for a client by more than 30%
What working with me looks like
We meet through weekly structured check-ins. You'll come away with a much clearer read on your company's visibility online, how to showcase the business, pull in more customers, and just generally understand what good online practice actually looks like right now.
How fast you'll see results
Most founders see progress within 3-4 months.
Nicole Rowett — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Nicole
Rowett

Managing Director at the advertising and creative agency Mother. Led iPhone's Media Arts Lab team and global advertising for Apple iPhone.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market

I live in Los Angeles with my husband and my 90 pound, four-legged rescue pup.

The problem I solve
I help brands find the one idea big enough to work everywhere — so instead of running a dozen fragmented campaigns across markets, you have one story that lands the same way from LA to Tokyo.
What I've done
I started my career in advertising over 20 years ago in Australia before moving to Los Angeles in 2011, where I have since worked with brands at every life stage. I am currently the Managing Director at Mother New York. Before that, I spent over four years at TBWA\Media Arts Lab as Executive Director of Account Management and Executive Director, iPhone, leading Apple's Media Arts Lab iPhone team and building the brand through a constant drumbeat of global and local work across 27 key markets. Earlier, I was Global Brand Lead at TBWA\Chiat\Day, working across a range of clients from pitch through to establishment within the agency, including Disney+, McDonald's, a global rebrand for IMAX, and TikTok — leading TikTok's first-ever B2B campaign, "Don't make ads, make TikToks." Led Apple's Media Arts Lab iPhone team as Executive Director, building the brand across 27 key global markets Led TikTok's first-ever B2B campaign, "Don't make ads, make TikToks," as Global Brand Lead at TBWA\Chiat\Day Led major business lines at TBWA\Chiat\Day, including Disney+, McDonald's, and a global rebrand for IMAX
What working with me looks like
-
How fast you'll see results
-
Rob Watson — Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Rob
Watson

Developed LEED and grew it into the world's premier green building certification program

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
I help founders avoid the failures that come from skipping first-principles thinking and understanding the real tension between production and market, making the right industry connections, and navigating certifications and green markets without guessing.
What I've done
As a Senior Scientist at NRDC, I developed LEED, the world's premier green building certification program, and have since helped certify 40 million ft² of LEED projects through EcoTech International. I’m now applying the same playbook to waste through SWEEP, the Standard for Sustainable Materials Management, and to waste processing project development through Upland Road LLC, while also building an advanced materials company. Developed LEED and grew it into the world's premier green building certification program Certified 40 million ft² of LEED projects Developed a solid waste certification system (SWEEP) that no one in the industry had managed to build in 50 years
What working with me looks like
We meet through weekly structured check-ins. If you're looking for help implementing last year's technology or program, there are better people for that. If you want to figure out how to implement next year's technology, I'm your person.
How fast you'll see results
Like with clichés, there's wisdom in simple things. A surprising number of people don't start there, so if my advice is followed, results often come immediately.
Thomas Anderson Sharpe Jr. — Protection + Compliance · Go-To-Market
  • Operator
  • Mentor

Protection + Compliance

Thomas Anderson Sharpe
Jr.

Federal procurement expert. Former Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner. Oversaw $50B+ in federal contracts.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
  • Go-To-Market

I help founders access or navigate federal government contracts, and I help them understand the system and resolve the problems that come up once they're in it.

The problem I solve
-
What I've done
-
What working with me looks like
-
How fast you'll see results
-
Office Hours
1 hour, once a month
John Deschner — Go-To-Market
  • Mentor

Go-To-Market

John
Deschner

Head of Brand at Maximum Effort. Scaled services revenue 500% in three years.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market

I help build marketing functions from the ground up for founders who have none. I also help founders move from performance-driven growth to a real brand strategy, one with a roadmap they can actually execute and measure, not just a brand book that sits on a shelf.

Office Hours
1 hour, once a month
Rick Stahl — Go-To-Market
  • Mentor

Go-To-Market

Rick
Stahl

Surgeon turned health system executive. Venture Partner at Elm Street Ventures.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market

I help life sciences founders identify all their options, or the best one, for which disease or health problem to target, who the actual customer is (payer, provider, or DTC), or how to pitch to them.

Office Hours
1 hour, once a month

Department 2 of 3: Strategy + Capital

For founders navigating a raise, a capital decision, or a strategic inflection point where the wrong move costs leverage you won't get back.

If you already know the problem, Strategy + Capital Sprints offer a faster path in.

Know exactly what you need? Start with a sprint

Every sprint is run by a matched grIP operator. Same bench, same standard, scoped for a specific problem.

The Narrative Rebuild

For founders whose raise has stalled and the deck isn't the real problem.

You get: A rebuilt fundraising narrative (story arc, key proof points, slide sequence) restructured around what this stage of investor actually needs to see.

Timeframe: 2 weeks · 2 working sessions + written deliverable.

Start this sprint →

The Data Room Audit

For founders heading into due diligence who haven't had a practitioner review what they're about to hand an investor.

You get: A full data room review — gaps identified, fixes prioritized, investor-facing framing tightened.

Timeframe: 1 week · 1 working session + written gap analysis.

Start this sprint →

The Capital Strategy Map

For founders deciding between raise types, timing, and investor targets before outreach has started.

You get: A written capital strategy — right instrument, right timing, right target investor profile, and the sequencing logic behind all three.

Timeframe: 2 weeks · 2 working sessions + written strategy document.

Start this sprint →
Anjani Annumalla — Go-To-Market · Strategy + Capital
  • Operator

Go-To-Market

Anjani
Annumalla

Managed budgets north of $3B at Amazon. Raised $3M in capital for my own startup.

Full profile
  • Go-To-Market
  • Strategy + Capital
The problem I solve
I help founders build the team, business model, and go-to-market engine that turns 'we need funding' into 'we're worth more than we thought.' We often end up fixing adjacent problems before tackling the one they came in with, and the outcome ends up better than expected (raising $5M instead of $2M, for example).
What I've done
I launched Amazon Fresh in 10 different countries and launched a consumer brand, Bunafr, in one of the most crowded spaces with a unique value proposition, winning several awards along the way. I have built a unique business model in the one of the most complicated industries and pivoted a couple of times. I have strengths on how to attract the right talent which every founder need to learn, and finally lessons on what happens when executed with exit strategy in mind vs not. My background spans Amazon, Qualcomm, Coca-Cola, and Amdocs.
What working with me looks like
It's a combination of structured and as-needed. We set clear objectives together, but things come up along the way and we stay connected as needed. You get clarity on how to build your business — a growth plan covering hiring, fundraising, and strategic partnerships — built with an exit strategy in mind from the start.
How fast you'll see results
Most founders see clarity within 2-3 months.
Nathan Stevenson — Strategy + Capital
  • Operator

Strategy + Capital

Nathan
Stevenson

Founder of ForwardLane, which he built from early AI prototypes into a production distribution-intelligence platform used by Invesco. Selected for Barclays Techstars London, one of 10 companies from 685 applicants, and the FinTech Innovation Lab New York.

Full profile
  • Strategy + Capital
The problem I solve
I help founders raise money, model their business, and position it for the next stage of growth. Founders come to me saying "we need an AI agent," but usually the real problem is a messy workflow, disconnected data, or an unclear customer need. I fix that first, then build the smallest useful system that actually proves the value.
What I've done
I founded ForwardLane and took it from early AI prototypes to production distribution intelligence used by Invesco, converting enterprise pilots into long-term commercial deployments. Before that I authored the Johannesburg Stock Exchange's five-year technology transformation strategy, and co-founded HotelsByDay, scaling it to 450 hotels across 45+ cities. These days I’m building Hypebase and Signal Studio, and run SignalHaus.ai for hands-on AI strategy work with mid-market and enterprise clients. Built ForwardLane into a production enterprise AI platform used by Invesco, with long-term commercial deployments in financial services. Selected for Barclays Techstars London, one of 10 companies from 685 applicants, and the FinTech Innovation Lab New York. Secured strategic investment in ForwardLane from investors including Thomson Reuters, SEI Ventures and SixThirty. Co-founded HotelsByDay and helped grow the platform to 450 hotels across 45+ cities; filed a patent for its intra-day reservation system. Featured speaker on AI in wealth and asset management at MIT, Yale and the World Economic Forum.
What working with me looks like
We meet through weekly structured check-ins. You leave with a prioritized use case, a clear build-versus-buy call, and a delivery plan tied to real business metrics. On execution engagements I own a defined piece of work, an AI prototype, a data-integration design, a workflow automation, with a handoff your team can actually use. The goal is less wasted build effort, not another strategy deck.
How fast you'll see results
Within the first 1-2 weeks we usually land on a scoped problem, success metrics, and next steps. A tightly scoped prototype or automation can often be targeted within 2-4 weeks once data and access are in place.
Pablo Lapuerta — Protection + Compliance · Strategy + Capital
  • Operator

Protection + Compliance

Pablo
Lapuerta

Founder and CEO of 4M Therapeutics. Previously served as Chief Medical Officer at Lexicon Pharmaceuticals and Vice President of Clinical Development at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
  • Strategy + Capital
The problem I solve
A unique and compelling clinical development plan for a biotech startup that asks how to attract investors and project sales.
What I've done
I am a physician and pharmaceutical executive with 25 years of experience in clinical development, drug approvals, and biotech leadership. I currently serve as Founder and CEO of 4M Therapeutics, and previously served as Chief Medical Officer at Lexicon Pharmaceuticals and Vice President of Clinical Development at Bristol-Myers Squibb. My clinical research spans oncology, immunology, gastroenterology, cardiology, endocrinology, and ophthalmology, and my work has been published in over 100 journal articles, including 4 in the New England Journal of Medicine. Led clinical development for the successful FDA and EMA approvals of Avalide, Xermelo, and Zynquista, including key regulatory meetings and an FDA Advisory Committee presentation Founded 4M Therapeutics, raised over $10 million in seed funding, and advanced a novel compound to clinical-trial readiness Led epidemiology and outcomes research teams supporting pricing and reimbursement for 10 major products, including Plavix, Opdivo, and Eliquis; secured FDA breakthrough designation for an oncology product and ran 10 Phase 3 trials, all meeting primary endpoints
What working with me looks like
I help founders develop clinical development strategies that make their science investable. We meet through weekly structured check-ins, working toward a differentiated go-to-market strategy built on a solid, defensible clinical plan.
How fast you'll see results
Founders typically see progress on a differentiated go-to-market strategy within one month.
Sameer Jagetia — Strategy + Capital
  • Operator

Strategy + Capital

Sameer
Jagetia

Former Chairman and President of Redbooks (sold). Founder of Robuzz (sold). Ranked #9 worldwide in financial modeling.

Full profile
  • Strategy + Capital
The problem I solve
I help founders quantify their strategy, so they can make better decisions and raise capital with a model that actually holds up.
What I've done
I am recognized as a top 10 worldwide financial modeler who's also built, acquired, and exited two companies. I owned and operated Redbooks and co-founded Robuzz. Ranked #9 worldwide in the Financial Modeling World Cup and authored 3 cases used in global competition Acquired and sold Redbooks (SaaS) to List Partners, a Northland Capital portfolio company; co-founded and sold Robuzz (ML/NLP) to Aidentified. Unblocked a stalled M&A close by resolving a cap table issue the internal team couldn't solve — the deal closed
What working with me looks like
Founders come thinking they need a better financial model. What they need is a sharper strategy — the model is just where the weak spots show up first. We connect as-needed via email or Slack, and you walk away with a working model you can update yourself, pressure-test decisions with, and put in front of investors without flinching.
How fast you'll see results
A working model is typically in place within 1-2 weeks, ready for board or investor conversations within 30 days. Discrete deliverables like cap table cleanup often take days, not weeks.
Liz Powell — Strategy + Capital
  • Mentor

Strategy + Capital

Liz
Powell

Founder of G2G Consulting. Secured $624M in non-dilutive government funding.

Full profile
  • Strategy + Capital

Accessing funding from the government requires building real relationships and champions inside agencies and on the Hill — not just filling out an application.

Office Hours
1 hour, once a month
Oded Berson — Strategy + Capital
  • Mentor

Strategy + Capital

Oded
Berson

Senior Vice President & Head of Data & Analytics enablement for Chubb insurance. Built AI capability across pricing and claims.

Full profile
  • Strategy + Capital

I help founders define their AI strategy and capabilities, so their product decisions and positioning are grounded in what the technology can actually do.

Office Hours
1 hour, once a month
Stephanie Oestreich — Strategy + Capital
  • Mentor

Strategy + Capital

Stephanie
Oestreich

Venture Partner at RA Capital. Managing Director at the Myeloma Investment Fund, Former Chief Business Officer Galecto (NASDAQ). Led 100+ transactions totaling $2B+ and raised $50M+.

Full profile
  • Strategy + Capital

If early-stage companies want to raise venture money, what they're really looking for are angel investors — I help founders see that distinction and focus their fundraising strategy accordingly.

Office Hours
1 hour, once a month

Department 3 of 3: Protection + Compliance

For founders facing a legal, IP, regulatory, or government contracts issue that has been sitting too long while the downside keeps growing quietly in the background. These are the Operators brought in when the stakes are real and the margin for error is small.

If you already know what needs attention, Protection + Compliance sprints offer a faster path in.

Know exactly what you need? Start with a sprint

Every sprint is run by a matched grIP operator. Same bench, same standard, scoped for a specific problem.

The IP Audit

For founders who have built something valuable and aren't certain their IP protection matches what they've actually created.

You get: A full IP review — what's protected, what isn't, and what needs to be addressed before a raise or a partnership conversation.

Timeframe: 1 week · 1 working session + written audit.

Start this sprint →

The Pre-Signature Review

For founders heading into a significant commercial agreement who need a practitioner to review it before they sign.

You get: A reviewed contract with flagged risks, recommended changes, and a plain-language summary of what they're agreeing to.

Timeframe: 1 week · Async review + 1 debrief session.

Start this sprint →

The Compliance Readiness Assessment

For founders preparing for a raise, a federal contract bid, or an expansion into a regulated market.

You get: A written compliance posture assessment — gaps identified, priority fixes ranked, timeline for remediation.

Timeframe: 2 weeks · 2 working sessions + written assessment.

Start this sprint →
Greg Giddens — Protection + Compliance · Go-To-Market
  • Operator

Protection + Compliance

Greg
Giddens

Co-Founder and Partner of Potomac Ridge Consulting. Former Chief Acquisition Officer at the VA. Oversaw nearly $20B in federal spend.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
  • Go-To-Market
The problem I solve
Companies come to me thinking they have a procurement problem, when it's usually a requirements or funding problem. Knowing how those pieces fit together is what unlocks success in federal contracting.
What I've done
I am a senior executive with over 36 years of experience in engineering, management, leadership, procurement, and program management, including 17 years as a member of the Senior Executive Service. I am the Co-Founder and Partner of Potomac Ridge Consulting, a firm with deep understanding of government agencies' critical mission needs and how to help the private sector deliver solutions that meet them. Previously, I served as Principal Executive Director for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Modernization until my retirement in November 2017 and was Chief Acquisition Officer (CAO) for the VA and Principal Executive Director for the Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction, where I oversaw almost $20B in spend. I also served as Executive Director of VA's Office of Policy and Planning, Enterprise Program Management Office. I am also a member of the Senior Advisor to Government Executives (SAGE) for the Partnership for Public Service, a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), a Director of the Procurement Round Table, and sits on the Board of Advisors for the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). I received the Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Executive in 2005 and Federal Computer Week's Federal 100 award in 2007 and 2017. Obtained a sole-source contract for a suite of products at the national level within a Cabinet-level Agency Gained market penetration for healthcare-related supplies and services in the federal market Oversaw almost $20B in spend as Chief Acquisition Officer for the VA
What working with me looks like
We connect as-needed via email or Slack — this is a low-friction, on-demand relationship rather than a structured program. You tap in when you hit a procurement, requirements, or political-risk question you can't solve alone.
How fast you'll see results
Most founders see increased presence and impact in the federal market within 9-15 months.
Jed Weiner — Protection + Compliance
  • Operator

Protection + Compliance

Jed
Weiner

Advised on 100+ M&A and financing transactions for startups, PE-backed companies, public companies, and institutional investors.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
The problem I solve
I find practical solutions to founders' complex legal challenges
What I've done
I have 20+ years advising founders, companies, executives, and investors across the business lifecycle — from formation and growth through strategic transactions and exits. I have practiced at Cravath (#1 in Vault's U.S. law firm prestige rankings) and Simpson Thacher (#3 for Private Equity, #6 for M&A), and have represented Blackstone, KKR, and other leading investors in complex corporate and strategic matters. I am also the founder of grIP Venture Collective. Advised on 100+ M&A and financing transactions for startups, PE-backed companies, public companies, and institutional investors Represented Blackstone, KKR, and other leading investors in complex corporate and strategic matters Led cross-border transactions across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Africa
What working with me looks like
Founders get a clear view of the full risk spectrum—not just a flat "yes" or "no"—so they can make the right decision for their business.
How fast you'll see results
Immediately.
Nnamdi Nwachukwu — Protection + Compliance
  • Operator

Protection + Compliance

Nnamdi
Nwachukwu

Secured regulatory approvals from CBER and CDRH, including Class I & II Devices.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
The problem I solve
Regulatory strategy and data integrity are icebergs — there's always more under the surface, and the right strategy is rarely obvious. I identify compliance gaps and build risk mitigation strategies before they become problems.
What I've done
I have extensive experience across the full pharmaceutical lifecycle, working with several national regulatory agencies, and is therapeutic-indication agnostic. I previously served as SVP of Quality Compliance Operations, SVP of Data Governance & Privacy, and VP of Regulatory Science. Secured regulatory approvals from CBER and CDRH, including Class I & II Devices Led over 70 GxP audits across 5 continents in all major ICH jurisdictions Designed Privacy, AI & Data Governance frameworks for pharmaceutical development programs I completed a Master's in Evidence-based Medicine from Oxford University, a Master's in Regulatory Affairs in Pharmaceuticals, Biologics and Medical Devices from Northeastern University and a Masters of Healthcare Delivery Science from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. I am a Fellow of the Royal Society of Public Health in the United Kingdom and I am also responsible for the Life Sciences portfolio at the Oxford Angel Fund.
What working with me looks like
We work at defined project milestones. I'm a good listener and a pragmatic problem solver, providing fit-for-purpose solutions — whether the goal is regulatory approval, a desired exit, or reversing a clinical hold and returning to normal operations after negative regulatory feedback.
How fast you'll see results
Timelines are issue-dependent, but the goal is always solutions within days.
Pablo Lapuerta — Protection + Compliance · Strategy + Capital
  • Operator

Protection + Compliance

Pablo
Lapuerta

Founder and CEO of 4M Therapeutics. Previously served as Chief Medical Officer at Lexicon Pharmaceuticals and Vice President of Clinical Development at Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
  • Strategy + Capital
The problem I solve
A unique and compelling clinical development plan for a biotech startup that asks how to attract investors and project sales.
What I've done
I am a physician and pharmaceutical executive with 25 years of experience in clinical development, drug approvals, and biotech leadership. I currently serve as Founder and CEO of 4M Therapeutics, and previously served as Chief Medical Officer at Lexicon Pharmaceuticals and Vice President of Clinical Development at Bristol-Myers Squibb. My clinical research spans oncology, immunology, gastroenterology, cardiology, endocrinology, and ophthalmology, and my work has been published in over 100 journal articles, including 4 in the New England Journal of Medicine. Led clinical development for the successful FDA and EMA approvals of Avalide, Xermelo, and Zynquista, including key regulatory meetings and an FDA Advisory Committee presentation Founded 4M Therapeutics, raised over $10 million in seed funding, and advanced a novel compound to clinical-trial readiness Led epidemiology and outcomes research teams supporting pricing and reimbursement for 10 major products, including Plavix, Opdivo, and Eliquis; secured FDA breakthrough designation for an oncology product and ran 10 Phase 3 trials, all meeting primary endpoints
What working with me looks like
I help founders develop clinical development strategies that make their science investable. We meet through weekly structured check-ins, working toward a differentiated go-to-market strategy built on a solid, defensible clinical plan.
How fast you'll see results
Founders typically see progress on a differentiated go-to-market strategy within one month.
Thomas Anderson Sharpe Jr. — Protection + Compliance · Go-To-Market
  • Operator
  • Mentor

Protection + Compliance

Thomas Anderson Sharpe
Jr.

Federal procurement expert. Former Federal Acquisition Service Commissioner. Oversaw $50B+ in federal contracts.

Full profile
  • Protection + Compliance
  • Go-To-Market

I help founders access or navigate federal government contracts, and I help them understand the system and resolve the problems that come up once they're in it.

The problem I solve
-
What I've done
-
What working with me looks like
-
How fast you'll see results
-
Office Hours
1 hour, once a month

Management

Laura Querubin — Managing Director

Managing Director

Laura
Querubin

Laura Querubin is the Managing Director of grIP Venture Studio.

Full profile

With over 16 years of experience across Colombia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, she works at the intersection of venture capital, entrepreneurship, and international partnerships.

Laura mobilizes capital, expertise, and institutional partners to unlock opportunities for high-growth companies. She also advises founders and investors on growth strategy and cross-border expansion, with a focus on Latin America's emerging markets.

Prior to grIP, she served as Senior Investment Advisor at Invest in Bogotá, where she led efforts to attract global companies and impact investment. She also advised the President of iNNpulsa, shaping its international strategy and building strategic partnerships. Earlier in her career, she served as Cultural Attaché at the Embassy of Colombia to the United Kingdom and as a freelance producer for the BBC.

She is also an entrepreneur at heart and has founded and operated two tourism companies.

Laura holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in International Development from the London School of Economics and is a triple-major honors graduate of the University of Texas at Austin.

Contact Laura: laura@gripventure.com

Melinda Wang — Head of Strategy and VC Programs

Head of Strategy and VC Programs

Melinda
Wang

Melinda Wang is a corporate & securities attorney and outside general counsel.

Full profile

She advises clients on a wide range of matters across industries, including fintech, blockchain technology, e-commerce, insurance, transportation, renewable energy, real estate, proptech, alternative investments, consumer goods and entertainment.

With a background spanning Big Law, in-house leadership and boutique private practice, she has extensive experience working closely with businesses at every stage of their lifecycle. This includes negotiating and executing M&A transactions, structuring corporate finance and commercial transactions, preparing companies for IPOs, creating risk mitigation programs, managing SEC-related matters, serving as corporate secretary for U.S. and international entities, overseeing internal investigations and designing compliance frameworks.

She was previously Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary at EVO Transportation & Energy Services, Inc. (OTC: EVOA) and Senior Vice President and Assistant General Counsel at XL Group plc (NYSE: XL), and was associated with Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP in New York and London and Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP in New York, where she worked on initial public offerings, high-yield debt offerings and M&A transactions.

In addition to her law practice, Melinda is an active angel investor, contemporary art curator, educator and startup founder.

Education: Princeton University, AB, summa cum laude, 1999. University of Pennsylvania Law School, JD, 2002.

Jed Weiner — Founder of grIP Venture Collective

Founder of grIP Venture Collective

Jed
Weiner

Jed Weiner is Partner and Head of Corporate Practice at Alconbury Law PLLC.

Full profile

He advises emerging and seasoned companies and investors in corporate finance transactions, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, board matters, corporate governance, executive compensation, management equity, restructuring, corporate compliance, and commercial transactions.

Jed has worked in private practice at top-tier law firms, including as a corporate attorney at Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP in New York, London, and Palo Alto. He served as general counsel for Tunnel Hill Partners with $300 million in revenues, and as lead counsel of a global business division of Brady Corporation, a publicly-traded U.S. multinational.

Jed has represented clients across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, automotive, waste management, software, life sciences, energy, retail, banking, and telecommunications. He's also prepared SEC filings for U.S. public companies and led securities and M&A transactions both in-house and in private practice.

Additionally, Jed serves as outside general counsel for startups and private equity portfolio companies. Having significant experience with international transactions, operations, and compliance, he oversaw complex legal and business issues in Europe, Middle East and Africa for Brady Corporation. Jed led cross-border securities and M&A transactions for Blackstone and KKR at law firm Simpson Thacher.

Jed served in leadership roles as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve, deactivating as a Lieutenant Commander in 2012.

You don't need to diagnose the problem before reaching out

That's what the intake is for. Tell us what's happening in plain language and we'll identify the right category, the right Operator, and whether a sprint or full engagement makes the most sense. You don't need to diagnose the problem before starting the conversation.