Jeff Donaldson

Scaling Up Certified Coach

My specialty is in helping founder CEOs who feel like their businesses are running them, rather than the other way around.

As a Scaling Up growth coach, I focus on equipping leaders and their teams with the processes and tools needed to achieve sustainable growth, beyond just financial rewards. I have extensive entrepreneurial and corporate experience which includes decades of leading teams and brands through rapid growth and transformation.

My passion lies in helping companies identify and overcome bottlenecks, align their leadership teams, and set clear strategies for long-term success. My work spans industries ranging from private equity and tech to consumer goods, real estate, and advanced manufacturing. Over my career, I've guided businesses through start-ups, rebrands, turnarounds, and the challenges of scaling mature organizations.

My background includes strategy development, market positioning, operational optimization, leadership alignment, and AI-driven growth. Professional Highlights:

1. Leadership & Transformation: With over 25 years of experience, I have served as a Founder CEO, CMO, and Vice President of marketing across diverse sectors. Most recently my entrepreneurial drive led to the founding of FocusedBrands, where I delivered custom-fit freelance marketing teams to help companies connect with their audiences and grow strategically.

2. Scaling Up Expertise: I leverage proven frameworks like Scaling Up to align leadership teams, clarify goals, and create scalable strategies. This process allows for the results such as 2x cash flow and 3x profitability.

3. Marketing Acumen: From launching products at Crocs footwear to developing innovative campaigns at Coors Brewing Company, I have a track record of driving results. I've built global partnerships with top athletes and brands, redesigned packaging for dozens of SKUs, and increased customer lifetime value.

4. AI Expertise: Having integrated AI into marketing and growth plans for clients for the last few years, I have gained expertise in guiding CEOs and teams through the AI-driven growth process. Through facilitating AI workshops, one-on-one coaching, and ongoing AI guidance, I've helped companies find efficiencies and build competencies in this area.

Personal Highlights: I hold both an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Denver. I'm a father of twins, and I balance my professional pursuits with a love for the Colorado outdoors living in Boulder. My experience as a founder, executive, and coach gives me unique insight into the challenges faced by ambitious leaders seeking to grow their businesses and reclaim their time.

For me, the ultimate reward is empowering CEOs to build businesses they love—without sacrificing the life they want to live.