Episode 67

The Chief of Staff Role and What It Really Means for Your Business with Mackenzie Lee

Have you ever wished you had an employee who was there to help streamline operations and keep the business running smoothly? That's what the role of Chief of Staff is for!

In this episode, we explore the role of a Chief of Staff (CoS) and how it is often misunderstood by our guest, Mackenzie Lee. He understands the intricate role of Chief of Staff and how they can help alleviate the CEO's burden with day-to-day tasks and allow them to focus on more strategic initiatives.


Before bringing a CoS on board, it's crucial to ensure that the business is in a growth phase and has established processes and systems in place. While there is no set number of employees that determines when to bring in a CoS, I've found that companies with 50-100 employees are an excellent place to start.


Those interested in the position should have a strong understanding of business operations, be strategic thinkers, and have excellent communication skills. As you look for the right candidate, keep in mind that the CoS role can be beneficial to someone's career. It provides a unique opportunity to work closely with the CEO and gain exposure to all aspects of the business.


If you're unsure if you need a CoS, consider your pain points and areas for improvement. Bringing a CoS on board can help take your business to the next level and free up time for you to focus on the bigger picture but it is so important that your business is truly ready.


What you'll hear in this episode:

[2:15] Mackenzie's Introduction 

[4:20] How would you define what people think a chief of staff is vs what it actually is?

[9:00] What state should your business be in to bring in a chief of staff?

[15:15] Do you think there is a headcount size that determines when you should bring in a chief of staff?

[16:50] What was your experience as a chief of staff?

[22:15] Are there set paths for someone to move into being a chief of staff?

[24:00] Is moving into a chief of staff position a good move for your career?

[28:55] If you're thinking of onboarding a chief of staff, what should you be willing to do?

[30:40] How to sell someone that needs a chief of staff that they do actually need?

[32:20] How to connect with Mackenzie


Listen to Similar Episodes:

Behind the Scenes: How To Strategize Your Job Search Like Recruiters Do

Hiring for Impact: Making the Right Choice for Your Business

Organization Systems for your Business with Brittany Dixon


* Connect with Mackenzie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenzielee

* Check out his website for more information on his services and to check out the "Chief of Staff Playbook" https://www.cedarchief.com/


* Connect with me on IG @jackie.koch_

* Find more information on my website https://www.jackiekoch.com/

About the Podcast

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About your host

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Jackie Koch

Hey, I’m Jackie Koch. I have over 15 years of experience prospecting talent and building teams for Fortune 500 companies, startups and small businesses in all types of industries.  Technically, I have an MBA from Concordia University, although I’d argue I learned more about growing and scaling a modern business over the last 5 years in the LA tech start up scene. There I built out recruiting and People Operations teams for high growth tech start ups. I love entrepreneurs and being one at heart, I started my own business during the pandemic. I’m the founder and CEO of People Principles where I help founders scale through fractional recruiting and people operations services.