Ben Stickney is an executive search partner with a 20-year track record of building high-impact leadership teams and deep experience supporting venture-backed and private high-growth tech companies. He is also a seasoned leader with substantial operations experience, which he draws on to help clients scale with discipline, strengthen GTM execution, and develop leadership capabilities that endure. Professional Focus C-level and VP searches across GTM, operations, and corporate functions, including CEO, COO, CFO, CRO, CMO, and Heads of Marketing, Operations, Sales, and Customer Success Deep focus on investor-backed growth companies, from Series A startups to private equity-backed platforms and multi-billion-dollar category leaders Defense tech and national security expert, with domain experience across deep tech, AI/ML platforms, enterprise SaaS, fintech, health tech, and cybersecurity, as well as broader digital and technology-enabled services Experienced executive coach and leadership advisor to founders, CEOs, and senior operators navigating rapid growth, organizational change, and culture-building Active in veteran advocacy and mentorship, helping military leaders transition into executive roles in venture-backed and high-growth companies Business Expertise Partner in a boutique Silicon Valley executive search firm advising venture-backed and growth-stage clients on senior leadership hiring across enterprise and consumer markets. Executive operations leader at public, private equity, and venture-backed brands, including Amazon and The Honest Company, with accountability for teams of more than 2,000 people, complex national distribution networks, and significant P&L and supply chain oversight.  Decorated U.S. Navy fighter pilot serving in front-line fighter squadrons and leading complex, multinational operations around the world, flying over 100 combat missions. As a reservist, he supported US Embassies in Europe and served with SEAL Team 17. Additional Expertise Defense & National Security  Private Equity & Venture Capital  Technology  AI, Cloud, & Software  Industrial  Supply Chain & Logistics  Consumer  & Retail