Communicate with clarity + momentum
In my 15+ years as an investor and operator at various startups - I’ve discovered my biggest strength is taking complex ideas and turning them into simple, clear, and compelling narratives. I call this process Narrative Design. The way I see it, every company has two narratives:
- The one it tells about itself*
- The one other people tell about it**
The goal of Narrative Design is very simple - make those two stories the same, and make it a great story.
*This is your brand strategy
**This is your brand
A few scenarios where I have been helpful as an advisor:
Narrative Creation
- Define the company’s core story and strategic narrative
- Clarify positioning + value proposition
- Translate complex concepts into simple, memorable messaging
Strategic Planning
- Support leadership in turning narrative into actionable strategy
- Help make decisions with clarity and alignment
Fundraise Preparation
- Shape a compelling investment narrative rooted in clarity and conviction
- Craft or refine materials: pitch decks, data rooms, memos, talking points
- Coach founders on communicating momentum, opportunity, and vision
Track Record + Accolades
- Founder + executive at multiple startups, GP at various funds
- Scaled companies from 0 to millions in revenue as an operator
- Orchestrated several successful fundraises as a founder and fund manager from institutionals, HNW and strategics
- Structured, sold and executed strategic partnerships with Nike, Intel, Samsung, EA Sports, and many other global brands.
References available upon request.
Stephen Francis