I've run the business. Now I think it through with founders.
You're stuck on a decision, and there's no one at the top you can think it through with. I'm Eylem Samland, an executive coach and growth advisor based in Berlin. I have 21 years as an operator, and I work in English, German and Turkish. Founders and senior leaders bring me two kinds of problem: how they lead, and where the business goes next.
What I've done as an operator
Brand
Led global brand and agency strategy for consumer and health brands, including global agency pitches and creative review.
Growth
Grew revenue 200% and entered the US market within 12 months. Managed ten international distributors across Europe and Asia.
P&L
Owned budgeting and forecasting to the board, and held market share leadership for two consecutive years.
Turnarounds
Led multiple CEO and turnaround mandates.
Why I became a coach
Running a business taught me that most strategy problems are also leadership problems. I'm certified through the Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute and hold an Executive MBA. I don't coach from theory, and I don't consult without listening.
Why someone who has run the business
A coach alone helps you reflect. An operator alone tells you what they would do. I do both.
The decision stays yours. The thinking is shared with someone who has made calls like it.
Three ways to work with me
Executive coaching for founders and senior leaders
For the decision you carry and how you lead.
Read about executive coaching
Strategy and growth advisory
For where the business goes next: scaling the business, brand, go-to-market.
Read about strategy and growth advisory
Both
For founders who need the leader and the business sorted out together.
Read about working on both
Start with the free Ground Check
Not sure which one fits?
Book an intro call and tell me what you're stuck on. You're not alone with it.