Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Max Shapiro is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and industry leader based in San Francisco, California. As the Founder and CEO of PeopleConnect Staffing, he has spearheaded the growth of a leading talent acquisition and workforce management solutions provider. With expertise in the staffing and human resources industry, Shapiro also serves as a respected advisor and angel investor, leveraging his extensive experience to drive innovation and support promising startups.
Experience Summary
Current Roles
Founder and CEO, PeopleConnect Staffing (2000 - Present)
- Oversees the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of PeopleConnect Staffing, a prominent staffing and recruitment firm
- Leads a team of HR and talent acquisition professionals to deliver customized workforce solutions to a diverse client base
- Drives the company's growth and expansion, having grown PeopleConnect Staffing to become a trusted partner for businesses of all sizes
Founder and Producer, PitchForce (2012 - Present)
- Manages the production and organization of PitchForce, a successful startup pitch competition and networking event
- Leverages industry connections to attract top-tier startups and secure participation from prominent investors
- Provides mentorship and guidance to emerging entrepreneurs, helping them refine their business models and pitch presentations
Advisor, Kinian.com (2018 - Present)
- Serves as a strategic advisor to Kinian.com, a leading online platform for HR and talent management tools
- Provides expert insights and recommendations to support the company's product development and go-to-market strategies
- Collaborates with the Kinian.com team to identify and capitalize on industry trends and emerging opportunities
Angel Investor, Keiretsu Forum (2001 - Present)
- Actively invests in and supports early-stage startups as a member of the Keiretsu Forum angel investor network
- Evaluates investment opportunities, conducts due diligence, and provides mentorship to portfolio companies
- Leverages his extensive industry knowledge and connections to help startups scale and succeed
Past Roles
Co-Founder, Runway Innovation Hub (2012 - 2023)
- Co-founded and helped establish Runway Innovation Hub, a renowned startup accelerator and co-working space in San Francisco
- Played a key role in curating and supporting the growth of numerous successful startups within the Runway ecosystem
- Contributed to the development of programs, events, and resources that fostered innovation and entrepreneurship in the local community
Talent Scout, Phoenix Suns (1970 - 1972)
- Served as a talent scout for the Phoenix Suns professional basketball team, identifying and evaluating promising players
- Utilized his keen eye for talent and deep understanding of the game to help the team build a competitive roster
- Gained valuable experience in scouting, talent evaluation, and team-building during this early stage of his career
Academic Background
Max Shapiro holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of California, Berkeley, where he graduated with honors.
Areas of Expertise
- Staffing and HR industry expertise
- Talent acquisition and workforce management
- Startup ecosystem and investment strategy
- Entrepreneurship and business leadership
- Strategic planning and operational excellence
- Building and leading high-performing teams
Professional Impact
- Grew PeopleConnect Staffing into a leading provider of tailored talent solutions, serving a diverse client base
- Established PitchForce as a prominent startup pitch competition, connecting emerging entrepreneurs with prominent investors
- Provided strategic guidance and support to numerous startups as an advisor and angel investor, contributing to their growth and success
- Played a pivotal role in the development and success of Runway Innovation Hub, a renowned startup accelerator and co-working space
Conclusion
With over two decades of experience as an entrepreneur, investor, and industry leader, Max Shapiro has demonstrated a proven track record of driving innovation, fostering startup growth, and delivering exceptional talent solutions. His versatile skillset, deep industry knowledge, and collaborative approach have earned him a respected reputation within the San Francisco business community and beyond. Shapiro continues to leverage his expertise to create value for his clients, portfolio companies, and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.
