Hi, my name is...

Lauren Gniazdowski

I do my best work behind the scenes: turning ideas into action, aligning teams, and keeping complex work moving forward without losing the plot. For the past 15+ years, I’ve helped startups and small-to-mid-sized companies scale thoughtfully, stay focused, and build cultures people actually want to be part of. I’m equal parts strategic partner, operations lead, and trusted sounding board for executives.

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Expertise

Strategy Execution

I help teams move from ideas and plans to real progress. That often means clarifying priorities, pressure-testing assumptions, and translating strategy into concrete next steps that people can actually act on.

Expertise

Operational Efficiency

I bring structure to complex, fast-moving work by untangling workflows, roles, and processes so teams can spend less time compensating for broken systems and more time doing their best work.

Expertise

Project Management

I lead and steady complex initiatives by keeping work organized, decisions moving, and stakeholders aligned. My goal is simple: fewer surprises, clearer ownership, and forward momentum without unnecessary stress.

Expertise

Executive Partnership

I work closely with founders and leaders as a trusted thought partner to help them think clearly, make hard calls, and navigate complexity with calm, candor, and follow-through.

Resume

Connect on LinkedIn

Check out my LinkedIn for a more detailed work history, a list of certifications, and a general snapshot of my professional life.

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“Lauren served in an operational leadership role sitting between leadership, clients, and internal teams with integrity. She advocated for me while ensuring client satisfaction.”
-Former direct report at a professional services firm

"Lauren is a rare combination of someone who’s extremely adept at solving problems while also being incredibly patient and kind. She has a way of helping you think through issues without making you feel silly for having asked for help."
-Former colleague at a digital media company

“Her organizational skills and ability to take complex challenges and turn them into a clear plan of action make her a time-saver, problem solver and productivity boon.”
-Former direct report at a digital media company

"When we were launching a new [media] brand, Lauren's calm, cool, and collected demeanor was instrumental in making the lofty ideas of multiple stakeholders into practical things to get done."
-Executive at a digital media company

Substack

Life Management

I approach work and life with a journalist's instincts and a COO's mindset. So, naturally, I have a Substack. Check out my essays in living and doing and managing everything, from work to myself.

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Values

Clarity Over Chaos

Most problems get harder because they stay murky for too long. That's why I value clear priorities, shared understanding, and naming what’s actually going on so teams can stop spinning and start moving forward. Clarity isn’t about control; it’s about making good work possible.

Values

Honest Leadership

I lead with steadiness and candor, especially when things are messy or high-stakes. I value thoughtful conversation, direct feedback, and emotional maturity. This way, calm can create space for better decisions and better outcomes.

Values

Execution With Care

I care deeply about how work gets done, not just what gets delivered. And I don’t believe you have to choose between strong execution and healthy teams. Sustainable results come from people who feel respected, trusted, and supported. The work and the humans who create it both matter.

Values

A Bias for Action

I value forward motion but not at the expense of thoughtfulness. I’m decisive, pragmatic, and willing to make the call when it’s time, while staying open to learning and course correction. Progress beats perfection, as long as it’s grounded in good judgment.