CEO Jessica and Chief of Staff Ivan Discuss Roles and Leadership at Happen Ventures
When you think about fast-growing startups, the usual image involves rapid hiring, innovation, and navigating the chaos of scaling a company. But at Happen Ventures, leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s about trust, adaptability, and empowering people to take ownership. CEO Jessica Gonzalez and her Chief of Staff, Ivan Rangel, shared how they built a thriving business focused on sustainability while developing a culture of accountability and opportunity.
Key Takeaways
Trust is Everything: Jessica and Ivan built their leadership dynamic on trust. Jessica empowers Ivan to make decisions confidently, knowing they’re aligned in values and vision.
Adaptability is a Superpower: Business moves fast. Ivan started as a freelancer on Upwork and, through persistence and adaptability, became Chief of Staff.
Leaders Need Feedback Too: Jessica values honest conversations. She expects her team, including Ivan, to hold her accountable and challenge her when needed.
Notable Quotes
“Titles are just labels. What really matters is who gets things done.”
“I crave accountability. Leaders need honest feedback, too.”
“Everyone here has the same opportunity. It doesn’t matter where you came from, just how hard you work.”
Real-World Applications
Promoting from Within: Instead of hiring externally, Jessica and Ivan believe in developing their own people.
Example: A company struggling with high turnover could introduce an internal growth path to retain talent and increase employee engagement.Empowering Decision-Makers: Jessica gives Ivan the authority to act without micromanaging, ensuring smooth operations.
Example: A CEO who is stretched thin can train and empower a second-in-command to oversee daily execution.Aligning Work with Purpose: Employees at Happen Ventures believe in their mission, which keeps them engaged and motivated.
Example: Organizations looking to improve retention should connect employees’ work to a greater purpose beyond profit.
Jessica and Ivan’s conversation reveals that great leadership isn’t about controlling every decision—it’s about trust, adaptability, and empowering the right people. They prove that when you hire for drive and commitment, success follows. Whether you’re a CEO, Chief of Staff, or team leader, the biggest lesson here is simple: create opportunities, trust your people, and make an impact.
Time Stamps:
00:40 Jessica Gonzalez: Founding Happen Ventures
02:48 Ivan Rangel: Journey to Chief of Staff
04:44 Operational Strategies and Team Dynamics
19:09 Empowerment and Trust in Leadership
19:40 The Unique Role of a Chief of Staff
23:04 Building a Strong Principal-Chief of Staff Relationship
32:10 Promoting from Within and Valuing Hard Work
Links Mentioned:
Happen Ventures' Website: https://happenventures.com/
Connect with Jessica Gonzalez on LinkedIn: / jessbgonzalez
Connect with Ivan Rangel on LinkedIn: / ivanrangel88
About The Author
Emily Sander is an ICF-certified leadership coach with more than 15 years of experience in the business world and the author of Hacking Executive Leadership. She’s been featured in several print publications, online articles, and podcasts, including CEO Today Magazine, Leading to Fulfillment, and Leadership Powered by Common Sense.
Emily has a passion for helping business leaders reach their full potential. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach. If you want to send Emily a quick message, then visit her contact page here.