I've been lucky to work with many Founders throughout my career, both internally as an employee; and externally as an advisor; and they come in all shapes and sizes.
They're driven; see things through different eyes; and are built differently than those of us who work alongside and help them to build out their businesses, brands and vision.
For several years, I thought I wanted to be an upfront, visible Founder (and it may still happen one day), however, my skills ultimately lie in working WITH Founders - helping them to put structure to their thoughts - and then executing and implementing with them, or on their behalf.
We'd often joke that they 'do the sexy stuff, and I do the unsexy stuff'; however, I later came to know that both functions are equally necessary, and that the Founder holds the 'visionary' role, and I hold the 'integrator' role.
Being the 2IC or 'wing-person' to a Founder can be extremely rewarding, satisfying, and fulfilling; and the faith, trust, and bond that can develop is unique.
You go through good times and challenging times together. Both have to be candid and vulnerable on occasions; and both experience the highs and lows of growing and running a business, albeit in different ways.
It's a privilege to act as that trusted confidant or sounding board to a Founder, and that relationship should not be taken for granted by either party.
So; a quick shoutout to all those Founders who have shared and trusted their vision with a GM, CEO, COO, or advisor; and a mutual shoutout to all those 2IC's out there who execute and integrate on behalf of their Founders, Teams and Brands, day in, day out...
Cheers, Garrick