1. What impact has completing the Transition to Portfolio programme had on your portfolio career, whether that be access to fractional, board advisor or non-executive roles?

The Transition to Portfolio programme has enabled me to begin a stimulating career as a board advisor to a portfolio of startup companies.

2. Which aspects of the programme helped you the most prepare for future portfolio opportunities?

Together with my own previous experience of establishing and managing a startup company, the board advisor training programme within the Connectd Academy and the advice received from my allocated mentor cemented my understanding of the optimal relationship between advisor and founder.

3. How have the skills and knowledge gained through Connectd supported you in securing or approaching these positions?

The skills and knowledge gained through Connectd have provided me with the belief that I can act as an effective board advisor to a variety of differing types of start-up companies.

4. Can you share a key moment or lesson that shaped your approach to fractional/advisory work?

Undoubtedly, my experience of acting as a pro bono board advisor to a small startup company has enabled me to hone my skills by carefully examining the outcome of slightly different approaches to the advisor/founder relationship. Needless to say, a variety of founders will require a variety of slightly different approaches, whilst always remembering that a board advisor’s role is strictly restricted to  offering  advice and support.

5. Do you feel more confident and prepared to take on non-executive director fractional executive/board advisor roles after participating with Connectd?

Undoubtedly, a feel much more confident and prepared to take on a board advisor role after participating in the Connectd experience, and I look forward to acting as a board advisor to a portfolio of startup companies!

‍