Founding a company is a big deal, and taking on the CEO role to drive that company forward is an important choice. Some founders are able to lead their startups all the way through the process of company building. If you look at the list of most valuable companies in the world, however, you notice that the people at the top of tech companies aren’t always the original founders.
If you’ve spent any time doing board work — or if you’re talking to experienced VCs — you realize that it’s not uncommon for startups to switch CEOs, although it’s rarely discussed out in the open. Private companies usually have no obligation to announce leadership changes beyond the closed doors of the boardroom.
Still, choosing to give up the reins to a startup you’ve been bleeding, sweating and tearing for is a hell of a decision. I spoke with one CEO who went through...
