Transitioning from EdTech Product Leader to SME Operator - Seeking Advice

December 16, 2024

by a searcher from Yale University in London, UK

Product and operations leader looking to transition into SME leadership, with the goal of acquiring and operating a business in 2-3 years. Seeking guidance on company stages and roles that would best position me for this path. Looking for Jan/Feb 2025 start, London/UK based.

Background:

Head of Learning Product at VC-backed EdTech (seed stage, Berlin/EU)
Product Lead at Multiverse (Series D Unicorn, UK), launched £14.4M revenue apprenticeship program
Previously launched and exited 3 locations of French coding school franchise in China (full P&L, team of 30+)
Yale '10

Target: VP/Director level (Product/Operations/GM) in training/education sector (open to adjacent industries).

Main question: Which company profiles would best fit this transition - post-search, pre-PE investment companies, or PE portfolio companies? Open to different perspectives on making this transition successfully.

Any advice or leads appreciated!

Reply by a professional
from Bentley College in Miami, FL, USA

Given your target roles, I'd suggest exploring PE-backed portfolio companies where you can step in as a GM/VP of Operations or Product. These roles often provide hands-on operational experience while working closely with ownership, which can prepare you well for running your own acquired business.

Post-search companies could also be a fit, especially those scaling post-acquisition and needing operational leadership. You'll gain a front-row seat to what happens after a deal closes, including integration, value creation, and growth strategies.

As you narrow down companies or roles, keep an eye on how they approach operational improvements, especially in areas like financial due diligence and post-acquisition integration. These are critical for your future as a business owner.

Reply by an intermediary
from Harvard University in Pittsford, NY 14534, USA

I think Roman is on target. With your background on the tech side, it would be important to gain insights on the other aspects of the business - particularly, sales/marketing. Based upon your level of experience a GM/VP role would be ideal. Based upon what you absorb through that, you'd be all set to take the ultimate plunge and buy (or start) your own business!

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