Glossary
Operating partner
An operating partner is an experienced executive who gets directly involved in a company's execution to get through an inflection point — not just to advise on it.
Definition
An operating partner works alongside founders or management. They take responsibility for defined areas: structuring R&D, driving a project portfolio, preparing a divestiture, leading a transformation. They do not deliver a report and leave. They are an executive who commits their time and accountability to concrete progress.
The term originally came from private equity, where funds designate experienced executives placed alongside their portfolio company teams. It has since spread to deeptech startups and mid-size companies.
What an operating partner does
- Directly manages teams or projects
- Makes operational decisions within their remit
- Brings leadership experience the internal team does not yet have
- Works part-time or over defined sequences
- May sit on the executive committee or the board without being a full-time employee
Difference from an advisor or a board member
An advisor gives opinions and leaves. A board member exercises governance responsibility. An operating partner does both and also enters execution: they drive, arbitrate and report on results.
At Calsoï
Jean-Christophe Simon works as operating partner in R&D and innovation for deeptech startups and mid-size companies. The engagement may cover structuring an R&D function, preparing a fundraising round on the technical basis, or supporting a divestiture. See the fractional R&D leadership service.