Claudia Preziosi is a business and operations professional with a passion for innovation and sustainability. Over the past decade, she has thrived in the startup world, applying her expertise to help early-stage companies scale and succeed.
Her startup journey began at StartX, a Stanford-affiliated accelerator, where she served as Internal Operations Manager. In this role, she championed inclusivity for underrepresented founders, streamlined operations, managed budgets, and oversaw the startup workspace, increasing revenue by 28%. She also played a key role in screening over 300 company applications per session, coordinating interview logistics, and organizing events for post-Series A companies.
In 2018, Claudia joined HepaTx, a biotech company developing cell-based therapies for liver disease, where she now leads business development and operations. She oversees all business functions, including strategic planning, financial management, and investor relations. She has been instrumental in securing and managing NIH-SBIR grant funding, ensuring compliance with government regulations, and developing five-year roadmaps to guide the company toward clinical trials and market entry. Claudia also drives marketing initiatives, helping design investor materials, revamp the company’s website, establish a social media presence, and execute outreach strategies to attract investors and partners.
Before joining the startup ecosystem, Claudia gained corporate experience at Nestlé Waters’ San Pellegrino division. As International Trade Marketing and Country Development Specialist, she managed marketing and sales execution across nine countries, supervised special edition product launches, and collaborated with global teams to optimize trade marketing strategies.
With a Master’s degree with Honors in International Business and Development, Claudia brings a unique blend of corporate and startup expertise. Her deep understanding of business operations, investor relations, and strategic planning—combined with her commitment to innovation and supporting diverse founders—makes her a key leader in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Could you elaborate on the nature of your business, highlighting its purpose and the ways it benefits people?
At Preziosi Consultancy, we empower ambitious startups to accelerate growth, refine strategies, and scale operations seamlessly. As a trusted partner for pre-seed, seed, and Series A companies across industries—from biotech and medtech to robotics and energy—we combine deep expertise in marketing, business development, and operations with a tailored approach to every client.
Based in both Palo Alto and Amsterdam, we bridge the innovation hubs of Silicon Valley and Europe, offering unparalleled access to global networks, resources, and market insights. Our proven methodologies enable startups to:
- Craft compelling marketing strategies that resonate with target audiences and drive customer acquisition.
- Optimize operations and processes to ensure scalability and efficiency.
- Navigate business development challenges with strategic partnerships and investor relations that fuel growth.
We are not just consultants; we are collaborators, invested in transforming your vision into measurable success. Whether you’re building the next breakthrough in technology or disrupting traditional industries, Preziosi Consultancy is your partner for navigating the complexities of early-stage entrepreneurship and achieving exponential impact.
What inspired you to start your journey as a coach and entrepreneur? Were there any specific events, challenges, or people that motivated you to take this path?
My time in Silicon Valley was incredibly inspiring. Working with startup founders at StartX and connecting with remarkable women entrepreneurs and researchers at the Stanford Women’s Leadership Conference fueled my ambition. These experiences gave me the courage and strength to embark on my own entrepreneurial journey.
Looking back at the beginning of your career, what were the major challenges you faced when establishing yourself as a leader/coach? How did you overcome those obstacles?
At the beginning of my career, one of the biggest challenges I faced was ensuring that I was taken seriously and not relegated to a secondary role. Establishing myself as a leader required not only proving my expertise but also asserting my presence in a way that commanded respect. Additionally, I had to overcome self-doubt and push imposter syndrome out the door.
The turning point came when I shifted my mindset—I chose to believe in my abilities and the value I brought to the table. I focused on continuously developing my skills, speaking with confidence, and setting clear boundaries. I also sought mentorship and surrounded myself with a supportive network that reinforced my growth. Over time, through consistency and resilience, I was able to establish credibility and step into leadership with confidence.
Would you like to share any remarkable achievements?
Being nominated a Lean Pillar for Nestlé Waters while working in the IBU of San Pellegrino, creating a series of events for women and underrepresented founders at StartX, helping my clients raise $4M+, closing a license agreement between HepaTx and Mayo Clinic, and being invited as a speaker to the next C-Star Global Expo in Paris in May 2025.
Women are a growing force in workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
Women are a growing force in workplaces worldwide, making significant strides in leadership and breaking the famous glass ceiling. We see more women stepping into power positions, challenging norms, and reshaping industries. However, while progress is undeniable, there is still a long road ahead before true equality is achieved.
To navigate this journey, it’s crucial to surround yourself with people who believe in you and seek out mentors who can guide and support you. Their encouragement will be invaluable, especially during tough moments.
What message/advice would you have for future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
My advice to future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: never hesitate to speak up for yourself. Your voice, ideas, and contributions matter—don’t let self-doubt hold you back. Believe in yourself, trust your abilities, and embrace opportunities with confidence.
As my dad always told me, “You have the whole world in your hands.” So go after your dreams fearlessly; the world is yours to shape.
