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 (this is your actual brand btw)
The goal of Narrative Design is very simple - make those two stories the same, and make it a great story.
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, and company identity
- Translate complex concepts into simple, memorable messaging
Strategic Planning
- Identify and articulate long-term priorities and direction (North Star, Annual, Quarterly)
- Provide frameworks to make decisions with clarity and alignment
- Support leadership in turning narrative into actionable strategy
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
GTM + Product Positioning
- Define product positioning that resonates with customers and the market
- Support go-to-market strategy and messaging across channels
- Connect product capabilities to a cohesive, differentiated story
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 institutional funds, 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