About Jake
Bio
- Jake VanderZanden is an inspirational leader and executive who combines both large corporate and entrepreneurial business experience, coupled with vast experience in strategy, marketing, product development, and manufacturing to support organizations of many sizes. He has taught marketing, innovation, and strategy at several Oregon universities and is passionate about helping new entrepreneurs. Jake is available to deep dive with an organization on strategy or needs, serve as an advisor or board member, and teach students and professionals.
- Jake's small-town farm background serves as his foundation for problem solving, and also the catalyst behind his e-book, Barnyard Management, published in 2012.
- In addition to speaking and consulting - Jake double times as the founder and head of OTTO DesignWorks, makers of the award-winning Ottolock. Jake possesses a natural ability to assess and develop products and brands, and subsequently execute and commercialize profitably with a lengthy track record. He is adept at simplifying complex problems and communicating in a relatable manner to inspire teams and stakeholders.
- His speaking style is high-energy with lots of practical examples and story-telling, mixed in with a highly interactive approach with the audience. Jake offers a myriad of case studies and examples, particularly from recent start-up business that will be applicable to any organization or new entrepreneur in their journey.
- Jake's other passion is bikes. He has raced and trained for over 35 years at a very high level, but predominately rides for health and adventure now.
Expertise
- Entrepreneurism - scaling, capitalization, and pitfalls
- Brand strategy and consumer marketing
- New product development and commercialization
- Multi-channel sales management
- Hard goods manufacturing
- Crowdfunding campaigns
- Outdoor products - multiple industries