Chief of Staff, Handshake AI CBO - San Francisco, CA

Role Overview

The Chief of Staff, Handshake AI, is a critical leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Business Officer (CBO) of Handshake AI. This position serves as a senior operational and strategic partner, focused on driving the growth and scaling of the Handshake AI business. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical background, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record of successfully managing cross-functional projects in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment. This role requires a proactive individual who can translate high-level strategies into actionable plans, ensuring the effective execution of key initiatives across product, go-to-market (GTM), and operational functions. You will be at the heart of decision-making, ensuring that AI is leveraged to its maximum potential across the entire platform.

Day in the Life

As the Chief of Staff, your day will be dynamic and varied. A typical day might include: * **Strategic Alignment:** Participating in meetings with the CBO and other senior leaders to align on strategic priorities and initiatives. * **Project Management:** Overseeing the progress of key projects, ensuring they remain on track and within budget. This involves coordinating with various teams and stakeholders to address any roadblocks or challenges. * **Data Analysis:** Analyzing data from product, GTM, and finance teams to identify trends, insights, and opportunities for improvement. You will use this data to inform decision-making and recommend strategic adjustments. * **Communication:** Preparing executive-level presentations, memos, and briefings to communicate progress, challenges, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership, customers, and partners. * **Process Improvement:** Identifying areas for process improvement and implementing solutions to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across the Handshake AI business. * **AI Advocacy:** Championing the use of AI-powered tools and workflows within the organization, promoting a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. * **Operational Cadence:** Managing the operating cadence for Handshake AI, including scheduling and facilitating staff meetings, planning cycles, and operating reviews.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco is a global hub for technology and innovation, making it the ideal location for Handshake AI. The city offers: * **Access to Talent:** A deep pool of highly skilled professionals in AI, machine learning, and related fields. * **Innovation Ecosystem:** A vibrant ecosystem of startups, venture capital firms, and research institutions, fostering innovation and collaboration. * **Strategic Partnerships:** Opportunities to build partnerships with leading technology companies and research organizations. * **Quality of Life:** A high quality of life with access to cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and diverse communities. By locating the Chief of Staff role in San Francisco, Handshake AI can tap into the region's unique resources and capabilities, driving innovation and growth. ## Career Path The Chief of Staff role offers a unique opportunity to gain broad exposure to all facets of the Handshake AI business. This position can serve as a springboard to various leadership roles within the company, such as: * **Head of Strategy:** Leading the development and execution of Handshake AI's overall business strategy. * **VP of Operations:** Overseeing the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Handshake AI business. * **General Manager:** Assuming P&L responsibility for a specific business unit or product line. * **Chief Operating Officer (COO):** Leading the day-to-day operations of the entire Handshake AI organization. The career path will depend on the individual's skills, interests, and performance in the Chief of Staff role. ## Salary & Benefits Handshake offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including: * **Salary:** The salary for the Chief of Staff, Handshake AI CBO role will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. * **Equity:** Employees are eligible to participate in Handshake's equity program. * **Health Insurance:** Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans are available. * **Paid Time Off:** Unlimited vacation policy, allowing employees to take the time they need to recharge and be their best. * **Parental Leave:** Generous paid parental leave for new parents. * **Professional Development:** Opportunities for professional development and training. * **Wellness Programs:** Wellness programs and resources to support employee health and well-being. ## Mission Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and connect talented individuals with the right career paths. The Chief of Staff, Handshake AI CBO, will play a critical role in advancing this mission by: * **Driving Growth:** Scaling the Handshake AI business to reach more students and employers. * **Improving Outcomes:** Enhancing the platform's ability to connect students with meaningful career opportunities. * **Promoting Equity:** Ensuring that all students have equal access to career resources and opportunities, regardless of their background or location. ## How to Apply Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through the Handshake careers page. Please submit a resume and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and qualifications. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **Q1: What is Handshake AI?** A1: Handshake AI leverages artificial intelligence to enhance career discovery, hiring, and upskilling on the Handshake platform. **Q2: What are the key responsibilities of the Chief of Staff role?** A2: The key responsibilities include driving operating cadence, translating ambiguous questions into structured projects, synthesizing data, creating executive-ready narratives, and championing AI-powered ways of working. **Q3: What qualifications are required for this role?** A3: Required qualifications include 5+ years of experience in consulting, strategy & operations, product management, or a related field, a track record of driving cross-functional projects, strong analytical skills, and exceptional communication skills. **Q4: What is the company culture like at Handshake?** A4: Handshake fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven culture where employees are encouraged to innovate and make a meaningful impact. **Q5: What opportunities are there for career growth at Handshake?** A5: Handshake offers numerous opportunities for career growth and advancement, depending on the individual's skills, interests, and performance. **Q6: What is the interview process like?** A6: The interview process typically involves multiple rounds of interviews with hiring managers and other team members, including both technical and behavioral assessments. **Q7: Does Handshake offer relocation assistance?** A7: Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates. **Q8: What is Handshake's approach to diversity and inclusion?** A8: Handshake is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. **Q9: How does Handshake support employee well-being?** A9: Handshake offers a range of wellness programs and resources to support employee health and well-being, including mental health support, fitness programs, and healthy lifestyle initiatives. **Q10: What makes Handshake a great place to work?** A10: Handshake offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI technology, collaborate with a talented team, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and professionals around the world.