Philip Lakin — Founder & CEO, Switchboard

Switchboard: CEO Phil’s Journey from DIY to Delegation with Levy

As the co-founder and CEO of Switchboard, Phil knows the importance of a reliable back-office operation. Balancing the intricacies of payroll, HR, and compliance alongside the critical business of growing a startup is no small feat. In his testimonial, Phil offers a candid look at how partnering with Levy has transformed their back-office operations.

A Second Set of Hands

With numerous operational tasks piling up fast, Phil likens Levy to a "second set of hands." The ability to delegate complex processes to us is as easy as sending an email. Switchboard no longer has to manage every intricate task independently, freeing up valuable time for the team to focus on what they do best.

The Alternative: A Hodgepodge Solution

Had they not partnered with Levy, Switchboard would have likely ended up with a patchwork solution, combining outsourced services and in-house talent. Such a situation could quickly turn messy, requiring the training of internal staff or freelancers to handle complex processes. In contrast, Levy provides a cohesive, streamlined solution.

Saving Precious Time

By partnering with Levy, Switchboard has been able to save 10 to 15 hours per week. For a growing startup, this time can be better spent on product development, sales, and hiring – activities that directly contribute to the company's growth.

Understanding the Mechanics

Phil highlights the value of having a team member who understands the mechanics of various operational processes. Just because it's easier than ever to set up certain systems, doesn't mean they don't require expertise to maintain and adapt. With Levy, Switchboard is completely covered, regardless of the changes or challenges they face.

Professional Help for Rapid Growth

If you're a one or two-person operation, handling these tasks might be manageable. However, for growing startups or those anticipating rapid expansion, professional help is invaluable. Phil encourages others to stop managing tasks like hiring, compliance, and payroll internally, and instead delegate them to professionals like Levy.

Phil wishes he had set up this partnership even earlier. He acknowledges that the hours saved would have been huge even when they were just three or four people. His advice to other startups is simple: "Just do it."

As we continue to work alongside innovators like Switchboard, our commitment to providing expert, reliable back-office operations remains unwavering. We're here to support the scaling journey of startups by handling the complexities of their operations, allowing them to focus on their mission and growth.