Lukas Hlavac
Fractional COO/CMO | Strategy & Growth in the emerging markets | Mentor @ Orbit Startups | Chairman @ CzechCham
I had an absolutely amazing session with Lukas! We discussed all the efforts we've put in since our launch, and Lukas asked some insightful questions to gain a deeper understanding of our product and how we're addressing the problem. His guidance helped me reorganize my thoughts and concentrate on the areas where my team and I can make the most impact on our growth. He shared valuable insights on conducting experiments across various platforms, suggesting a sequence that starts with low-effort, high-impact initiatives and gradually progresses to high-effort, high-impact ones. Lukas also provided valuable advice on when to scale an experiment and when to move on to the next. I'm incredibly grateful for Lukas' time and his invaluable advice. Thank you so much, Lukas!
Bio
As an accomplished executive, entrepreneur, and growth marketing expert, I bring a wealth of experience in driving operational excellence, transformative growth in emerging markets, and mentoring startups to achieve their growth objectives. My entrepreneurial journey world began in 2015, establishing a multimillion-dollar e-commerce venture in China that gained recognition in Vogue and Elle China, and attracted significant venture capital, leading to an acquisition offer from a leading real estate conglomerate. In 2019, I transitioned to the role of China General Manager for one of China’s leading CEE companies, where I led our branch to a 300% profit growth in my first year. Currently, I serve as the Chairman of the Czech Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai and a strategic advisor to post-seed and Series A startups, guiding them through the complexities of scaling in diverse industries. My role as a co-founder and COO of Whoolala, a cross-border e-commerce platform, has honed my skills in strategic leadership, operational management, and scaling businesses. This experience, combined with my deep understanding of online and digital marketing, especially in emerging markets, has equipped me with the unique ability to help startups navigate the challenges of growth. As a mentor for SOSV VC and Orbit Startups, I have dedicated myself to supporting early-stage companies in developing effective strategies for long-term growth. My work with the SmartGuide platform, leading it to achieve 1M app downloads with zero ad spend, stands as a testament to my ability to devise innovative growth strategies that drive online traffic, generate leads, and improve conversions. With two master’s degrees in technology and business, fluency in Mandarin Chinese, and a global perspective from studying on three continents and visiting over 100 countries, I am deeply committed to sharing my knowledge and expertise. I am passionate about assisting entrepreneurs and startups in achieving their growth objectives and am always seeking new challenges and opportunities to drive transformative success in the business world. Thank you for considering my profile. I am eager to connect with and support startups on their journey to growth and success.
Expertise
Advice on funding
Experienced in startup funding, I've helped SmartGuide, Aputime, Eqvista & more secure seed stage funding. Skilled in strategy, financial modeling, pitch decks, and fundraising outreach.
Building a team
Proficient in team building, I've successfully established 100-strong cross-border teams in China and Southeast Asia. I've also effectively managed intercultural teams spanning Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, fostering collaboration and achieving shared goals.
Go to market strategy
Experienced in go-to-market strategies, I've built cross-border e-commerce platforms in China and Southeast Asia, driving successful market penetration. Additionally, I've coached and mentored startups from the Middle East and Africa as part of the Orbit Startups program, empowering them to excel in their go-to-market endeavors.
Growth marketing
Skilled in growth marketing, I've propelled cross-border e-commerce ventures from zero to $1M USD in revenue within a year. Additionally, I've achieved remarkable success by enabling SmartGuide to amass 1 million downloads with zero ad spend, utilizing innovative growth strategies and tactics.
Idea validation
Experienced in idea validation, I possess deep expertise in the design thinking process. I have practically applied this knowledge, assisting over a hundred startups in achieving product-market fit within the Orbit Startups and Stacks Accelerator programs.
PPC strategies
Proficient in PPC strategies, I've successfully executed and optimized campaigns on Google Ads and Facebook for startups like SmartGuide and Whoolala, delivering exceptional results with up to 250% ROI. My expertise lies in driving targeted traffic and maximizing return on ad spend through effective PPC strategies.
Product market fit
With a strong focus on product-market fit, I've assisted numerous startups within the Orbit Startups and Stacks Accelerator programs. By leveraging design thinking and lean startup methodologies, I've guided these ventures towards achieving a solid alignment between their products and target markets.
Social media
Proficient in social media marketing, I've successfully managed accounts for multiple consumer brands, propelling them to amass over 1 million followers on Instagram and various Chinese social media platforms. With a strategic approach and engaging content, I've effectively enhanced brand visibility and audience engagement through social media channels.
Toolkit
Buffer
4 years of experienceSkilled in utilizing Buffer, I've streamlined the content creation process for B2B influencers. By leveraging Buffer's features, I've efficiently managed and scheduled social media content, ensuring a consistent and effective online presence for influencers. With a focus on maximizing engagement and reach, I've successfully optimized content distribution strategies using Buffer's platform.
Google Data Studio
4 years of experienceProficient in Google Data Studio, I've collaborated with SmartGuide to design data dashboards for marketing purposes. Leveraging the power of Google Data Studio, I've created visually compelling and insightful dashboards that provide comprehensive analytics and reporting. By effectively visualizing key marketing metrics and data, I've enabled SmartGuide to make data-driven decisions and optimize their marketing strategies for better results.
Hubspot
4 years of experienceSkilled in HubSpot, I've effectively managed lead generation campaigns for SmartGuide, resulting in the generation of hundreds of relevant B2B leads on a monthly basis. With expertise in leveraging HubSpot's features and tools, I've successfully optimized lead generation strategies to drive business growth and increase conversions.
Mailchimp
4 years of experienceProficient in Mailchimp, I've utilized the platform to design and implement cost-effective email drip campaigns for diverse clients. By leveraging Mailchimp's features, I've created engaging and personalized email sequences that effectively nurture leads, drive conversions, and maximize ROI. My expertise in designing efficient and budget-friendly email campaigns ensures impactful communication with target audiences.
Industries
E-Commerce Platforms
As the COO of the cross-border e-commerce platform Whoolala and the Head of Growth at SmartGuide, I have extensive experience in B2C operations. Leading these ventures, I have successfully implemented strategies to attract and engage B2C customers, drive sales growth, and enhance the overall customer experience. Through data-driven insights and innovative approaches, I have contributed to the success and expansion of these B2C businesses in the competitive marketplace.
Venture Capital
Mentor @ SOSV VC Mentor @ Bitcoin Frontier Fund Angel investor in travel tech, cleantech, and consumer technology. I have helped numerous startups to prepare for fundraising, especially seed and series A.
Blockchain
As a mentor at Stacks Accelerator and Bitcoin Frontier Fund, I provide guidance and support to startups in the blockchain space. Leveraging my expertise and knowledge, I assist entrepreneurs in navigating the intricacies of blockchain technology, fostering innovation, and driving adoption. With a deep understanding of the blockchain ecosystem, I contribute to the growth and success of blockchain-focused ventures in their journey towards achieving impactful solutions.
Business Development
Experienced in B2B lead generation, I have successfully built and executed online strategies for SmartGuide, resulting in over 100 high-quality B2B leads generated monthly. By leveraging various digital channels and implementing targeted campaigns, I have effectively reached and engaged with key decision-makers in the B2B sector. Through a combination of compelling content, lead nurturing, and strategic outreach, I have played a crucial role in driving business growth and forging partnerships.
Travel
As the Head of Growth and Strategy Advisor for SmartGuide in the travel tech industry, I spearheaded remarkable achievements, including 1 million app downloads, all accomplished without any marketing spend. Through innovative strategies and a deep understanding of the market, I propelled SmartGuide's success, solidifying its position as a leading player in the travel tech sector.
SaaS
As an advisor to Eqvista, the cap table and valuation SaaS, I provided guidance and expertise in strategy, growth, and financial modeling. Leveraging my knowledge in the SaaS industry, I assisted Eqvista in optimizing their business strategies, driving growth, and developing robust financial models. Together, we worked towards maximizing the value and success of Eqvista's innovative SaaS solution.
FinTech
With a focus on fintech, I advised a Taiwanese insurtech company on their expansion strategy across Southeast Asia. Leveraging my expertise in the fintech landscape, I provided insights and guidance to facilitate their regional growth. Additionally, I have invested in Flowpay, a promising fintech startup, supporting their innovative solutions in the financial technology space. Through these engagements, I contribute to the advancement and success of fintech ventures.
E-Commerce Platforms
As the COO of Whoolala, a cross-border e-commerce platform, I oversaw operations and strategic initiatives, driving growth and optimizing the customer experience.