Chief of Staff, CEO

The Role

The Chief of Staff to the CEO is Garrett Lord's closest execution partner — the person who helps him get things done at extraordinary speed across Handshake's mutually reinforcing business lines: our network, recruiting platform, and AI data work. You'll turn his priorities into structured action, run the operating rhythm that keeps a fast-growing organization aligned, and pick up whatever needs to move — owning the systems-building and follow-through that a founder-led company needs but doesn't run on its own.

It's a high-trust, high-leverage seat and a proven springboard into senior operating roles at Handshake.

• Run the operating cadence — board prep, executive staff, planning, and KPI reviews — so decisions get made and priorities stay clear across the company

• Drive high-stakes cross-functional initiatives, from GTM alignment and org design to M&A and AI adoption, from idea to executed outcome with clear owners

• Build the analytical foundation behind key decisions by interrogating data, modeling scenarios, and distilling crisp, actionable recommendations for the CEO and board

• Produce world-class communications — board decks, investor memos, and all-hands narratives — that represent the CEO's thinking with precision

• 5+ years of standout performance and rapid progression in a high-bar environment — top-tier consulting, investing (PE/VC/IB), or high-growth operating

• Has been the right-hand person to a senior leader and personally owned initiatives end to end — not just supported a team

• Exceptional horsepower and work ethic — you move fast, outwork the problem, and get things done without being asked

• AI fluency and enthusiasm — you actively use AI to create leverage in your work and are excited about where it's headed (formal AI experience not required)

• Intellectual humility and coachability — you learn fast, update your views, and take direct feedback in stride

• Calm under pressure and highly collaborative — you build trust fast and work well with everyone amid chaos

• Sharp analytical and written communication — fluent with data and models; decks and memos that don't need editing

• Energized by Handshake's mission to expand access to opportunity in the AI economy

Bonus points:

• Experience across company stages, from early-stage to scaled

• Familiarity with marketplaces, multi-sided platforms, or AI/SaaS go-to-market

Handshake delivers benefits that help you feel supported—and thrive at work and in life.

The below benefits are for full-time US employees.

• Ownership: Equity in a fast-growing company

• Financial Wellness: 401(k) match, competitive compensation, financial coaching

• Family Support: Paid parental leave, fertility benefits, parental coaching

• Wellbeing: Medical, dental, and vision, mental health support, $500 wellness stipend

• Growth: $2,000 learning stipend, ongoing development

• Remote & Office: Internet, commuting, and free lunch/gym in our SF office

• Time Off: Flexible PTO, 15 holidays + 2 flex days

• Connection: Team outings & referral bonuses

Explore our mission, values, and comprehensive US benefits at