Founding Principal
Blackhawk Talent · San Jose, CA
Apply & track with Apply EdgeDeployment StrategistPosition OverviewWe are seeking a highly analytical and entrepreneurial Deployment Strategist to join our founding team. This role is ideal for someone with a background in top-tier management consulting and private equity who enjoys solving complex business challenges, working directly with customers, and helping shape innovative AI-driven solutions.As a Deployment Strategist, you will partner closely with company founders to translate customer needs into scalable product solutions, lead strategic client engagements, and influence both product development and go-to-market initiatives. This is a unique opportunity to have a direct impact on company growth while working at the intersection of consulting, technology, AI, and private equity.Key ResponsibilitiesCustomer Strategy & DeliveryLead customer engagements from initial discovery through implementation and long-term success.Serve as a trusted advisor to clients by understanding their business objectives, operational challenges, and strategic priorities.Translate complex customer requirements into scalable AI-driven workflows and product enhancements.Build and maintain executive-level relationships that drive long-term partnerships and customer satisfaction.Product StrategyPartner directly with company founders to design, refine, and optimize core AI workflows and customer experiences.Provide customer-driven insights that influence product roadmap, feature prioritization, and overall platform strategy.Collaborate cross-functionally with Product, Engineering, and Leadership teams to ensure successful solution deployment.Business DevelopmentSupport enterprise sales efforts by participating in customer meetings, product demonstrations, and strategic discussions.Help identify expansion opportunities within existing accounts while contributing to new client acquisition.Work closely with leadership to refine go-to-market strategies and improve customer adoption.Strategic Problem SolvingApply structured, first-principles thinking to solve complex business and operational challenges.Operate independently in a fast-paced startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy.Analyze customer feedback, market trends, and competitive insights to improve both product and customer outcomes.Qualifications1.5+ years of professional experience at a leading management consulting firm (e.g., Bain, McKinsey, or BCG).Significant experience conducting commercial due diligence and strategic business analysis.Strong client-facing experience with executive-level communication skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering exceptional customer experiences.Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking abilities.Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.Entrepreneurial mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.Preferred Qualifications1–2 years of experience as a Private Equity Associate or equivalent investing experience.Exposure to AI, enterprise software, SaaS, or technology-enabled businesses.Experience working with founders, startups, or high-growth technology companies.Familiarity with product strategy, implementation consulting, or customer success.What Success Looks LikeSuccessfully leading strategic customer engagements from onboarding through long-term partnership.Driving product improvements by translating customer insights into actionable recommendations.Building trusted relationships with executives and investment professionals.Supporting revenue growth through exceptional customer outcomes and strategic sales involvement.Contributing to the growth of a rapidly scaling AI company while helping shape its culture, product, and long-term vision.Why Join This Opportunity?Join a founding team and play a key role in building a category-defining AI company.Work directly alongside experienced founders and influence strategic business decisions.Gain exposure to product development, customer strategy, sales, and company growth initiatives.Take ownership in a highly collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where your ideas have a direct impact.Accelerate your career at the intersection of artificial intelligence, consulting, private equity, and enterprise technology.