Founder for 10 years; looking to get a job – what jobs am I fit for?

Question

For the last 5 years I've been working on a startup where I created one of the world's most advanced algorithms in the HR space. At this time I am considering moving on from the startup and looking for jobs (a few different reasons). I am looking for recommendations on what roles I would be suitable for.I've been a founder previously and haven't had a typical "job" for over 10 years. Over the last 5 years I have:1. Coded extremely complex & super advanced algorithms (linear/sequential) 2. Coded & designed software products from scratch (for my startup) and deployed them to billion dollar companies. 3. Raised capital from reputable investors. 4. Designed marketing materials, did sales for my startup, sold successful SaaS contracts. 5. Managed a small team of coders.I am potentially interested in applying for remote software engineer roles, but I was wondering if people here think that I could be a better fit for Director of Engineering or CTO positions for small startups?Or maybe I should explore other types of roles like Product Management or Director of Product?Any advice would be appreciated.In terms of my own "zone of excellence" -- I would say it is probably problem solving and programming. I am able to look at very complex systems and able to understand them in an easy way.

AnimalMuppet · Accepted Answer

You sound like you're a bit unsure of yourself, or at least of your marketability in the job market. I'm pretty sure you'll be just fine. You need to take something that fits you, not take the first thing that comes along.
It sounds to me like you don't really want to be the Director - you want to be the doer. So look for that.
In terms of a resume, just say "I did these things". It won't matter that you did them for a startup.
(But what do I know? I've never been in the position of trying to persuade non-startup people that my startup experience was valid.)

dustingetz · Answer

you have a network from being a founder right? use your investor relationships to get a startup leadership job at a company with a fresh fundraise, you can also subscribe to the newsletters that aggregate financings this day/week like The Term Sheet. Or use your unicorn/enterprise customer relationships to come in directly under a SVP as say a consultant and network inside the org. that is how i would do it given your statements.