The rise of the Chief of Staff and standing out in a competitive market

Over the past ten years, the Chief of Staff role has grown in the public consciousness, thanks in part to dramas like The West Wing. While this position was primarily associated with politics or the military, the Chief of Staff is now a critical role in many startups and growing businesses. As Mark Chamberlain, Chief of Staff at BT, notes in his recent LinkedIn article, “The Chief of Staff role is a craft, not a job.” 

So, what exactly does a Chief of Staff do, and how can you position yourself to land this coveted role? Adam Evans, Director and Co-Founder at Levick Stanley, sat down with Rohan Sheth, Chief of Staff at Olio, to chat about his career journey so far and to learn what it takes to excel in this position.  

Understanding the Chief of Staff Role 

The Chief of Staff role is highly variable across organisations. However, at its core, it involves working closely with the founder or CEO to drive strategic initiatives and ensure operational efficiency. As Rohan explains, the role is often a combination of strategy and operations, requiring a generalist skill set and the ability to adapt to the needs of the business.  

Some key responsibilities of a Chief of Staff may include:  

• Serving as a sounding board and thought partner to the founder or CEO 

• Leading strategic planning and project management 

• Facilitating communication and alignment across teams 

• Identifying and addressing operational inefficiencies 

• Providing data-driven insights to inform decision-making 

The value of a Chief of Staff in startups 

Startups are increasingly recognising the value of hiring a Chief of Staff early on. As Rohan points out, the role is often seen as a “secret weapon” for founders, providing a versatile skill set and filling gaps in the team. Rather than specialising in one area, a Chief of Staff can adapt to the evolving needs of the business, allowing startups to remain agile and efficient.  

Research from the Chief of Staff Network shows that nearly 60% of Chief of Staff positions are found in companies with fewer than 500 employees, demonstrating the growing importance of the role in the startup ecosystem.  

Making Your Move: Tips for Landing a Chief of Staff Role 

1. Gain startup experience: Rohan emphasises the importance of having startup experience before pursuing a Chief of Staff role. Startups operate differently than large corporations, and familiarity with the fast-paced, dynamic environment is crucial. 

2. Demonstrate your value: In the competitive job market, it’s essential to stand out from the crowd. Rohan advises going above and beyond in the interview process, showcasing your initiative and problem-solving skills. Consider conducting an outside-in strategy review or proposing solutions to challenges the company is facing. 

3. Highlight your transferable skills: While prior Chief of Staff experience is a plus, it’s not always necessary. Highlight experiences in your background that demonstrate your ability to think strategically, manage projects, and collaborate effectively with senior leaders. 

4. Build a strong relationship with your principal: The Chief of Staff role requires a close working relationship with the founder or CEO. Seek out opportunities to connect with your potential principal during the interview process and assess whether your working styles and personalities are compatible. 

5. Embrace adaptability: As Rohan notes, a successful Chief of Staff must be comfortable with reprioritisation and thriving in a fast-paced environment. Showcase your ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances. 

The Chief of Staff role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a growing business while developing a broad set of strategic and operational skills. As the role continues to gain prominence in the startup world, aspiring leaders who can demonstrate their value, adaptability, and strategic thinking will be well-positioned to make their move. 

To learn more about Rohan Sheth’s experience and insights, watch the full Change Makers interview on our YouTube channel. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and explore Chief of Staff opportunities, get in touch with the team at Levick Stanley today.