

Chief of Staff: When, Why, and How to Leverage It - and Whom?
The title “Chief of Staff” is a nebulous title, and one often associated with large, established organizations, but the role can bring significant value to companies in periods of growth, transition, or scaling. To maximize that value, leaders must step back and intentionally assess their challenges, goals, and long-term vision—for themselves, and their organization.
Join us for a roundtable discussion on how to evaluate the need for a Chief of Staff, determine the right timing, and identify the best fit for your organization. Whether you're a founder navigating rapid growth or a leader rethinking your operational strategy, this conversation will provide insights to help you make informed decisions.
About Jen Keister: Jen is an experienced Chief of Staff and strategic advisor, most recently serving on the leadership team at Kincell Bio, a cell therapy CDMO startup. As a consultant at the McChrystal Group, she also advised a diverse range of clients. Her expertise spans corporate strategy, operations, leadership international development, and nonprofit leadership, helping organizations achieve strategic and operational success. Jen holds a BA in Government from the College of William & Mary and an MA and PhD in Political Science from the University of California, San Diego. Her PhD research explored how rebel groups govern civilian populations, based on over three years of immersive fieldwork in conflict zones. She has contributed research and consulting expertise at Harvard University's Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, the World Bank, Gartner, and the Cato Institute.
We look forward to it!