Meet our Business Operations Manager — Crystal Shaw

We’re excited to re-introduce our business operations manager, Crystal Shaw. With expertise in building strong operational foundations for small businesses to scale sustainably, Crystal is deeply committed to creating trauma-informed, antiracist workplaces. Her work at Bold Ventures focuses on aligning policies and practices with our mission, vision, and values, empowering both our team and the communities we serve.

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Crystal Shaw (she/her) is a skilled operations manager and business development coach who has supported numerous small businesses to build a strong foundation and sustainably scale their impact.

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She has partnered with numerous business owners in their efforts to pioneer trauma-informed, antiracist companies within their respective fields. As the Operations Manager for Bold Ventures, Crystal supports the development and implementation of policies and practices that reflect the mission, vision, and values of the company.

She is proud to support the team of Bold Ventures as they support our clients and stakeholders.

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We asked Crystal a few questions to get to know her better.

Why are you passionate about advancing community–aligned and impactful giving?

For many years, the philanthropic sector has reinforced a false hierarchy of intelligence and goodness that left funded communities feeling disempowered. Community-aligned and impactful giving allows donors and grantees to build rapport rooted in respect, trust, and appreciation. This allows funded communities to feel empowered to make decisions that are best for their people, while allowing donors to exercise their ability to relinquish control and power. I believe that community-aligned giving improves the lives of the people in the communities and the donors who fund them.

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By moving resources to communities of color, what kind of world do you hope to see?

I believe that moving resources to communities of color will allow for an increase in the equity of power and money. I also hope that it will advance cross-community relational repair around the world.

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How are you living the value of autonomy?

Before working with others, I spent several years working on developing personal autonomy through my relationships. As I began working with others as a coach, I noticed that my clients needed support to step into their own sovereignty as business owners. Developing personal autonomy requires intentionality and perseverance. I am looking to create a massive, sustainable impact on the world; and I believe that sustainable change comes through autonomy, not force.

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What is your passion project or hobby outside of work?

One of my favorite things to do outside of work is to learn about different cultures through food.

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Articles published by Bold Ventures:

The Practice of Care: An Interview with Yejin Lee

Practicing the Components of Care: Yejin Lee’s Strategies for Community

Facilitating All Together Bold: Reflections on Designing, Adapting, and Engaging in a Learning Community

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We’re excited about the expertise and support Crystal brings to our team, and we look forward to the opportunity to assist you further.

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