People Blocks

Philip Borchert

Clarity · Alignment · Leadership

Building organisations that scale

I help founders and leadership teams build organisations that keep performing as they scale, drawing on first-hand experience scaling a Berlin fintech from 15 to 150 employees before going independent. Whether I'm leading the People function on an interim basis, guiding organisational change, or coaching leadership teams, the focus is always the same: creating the conditions for people and businesses to perform at their best.

Who I work with

Technology startups of roughly 30–150 employees, typically between Seed and Series A, that have outgrown informal ways of working and need stronger organisational foundations. Some are building their first People function. Others need experienced leadership during a transition. Many simply need a sparring partner who helps founders turn business strategy into organisational execution.

Why clients choose me

My clients appreciate that I combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery. I quickly understand organisational dynamics, challenge leadership constructively, and translate observations into practical improvements that fit the business. I'm known for being commercially minded, calm under pressure, and willing to ask the difficult questions that move organisations forward.

How I help

Build and lead scalable People functions

Align leadership teams around clear priorities and accountability

Strengthen managers through coaching and practical leadership development

Design performance management and OKR frameworks that drive accountability

Professionalise recruiting through structured, competency-based hiring

Support organisational change, restructuring and periods of rapid growth

My approach is pragmatic, collaborative and business-first. I don't apply off-the-shelf frameworks as every organisation has its own strengths, challenges and culture. I take time to understand what already works, identify where friction exists, and introduce changes that create lasting impact without unnecessary complexity.

Call me when…

  • 01

    You just raised a round and the org hasn't caught up with the growth

  • 02

    You can feel friction in the leadership team but can't quite pinpoint why

  • 03

    A restructuring is coming and you want someone who's done it before

  • 04

    You're about to make a key People hire and want a second opinion first

  • 05

    You need to move fast without breaking what's already working

Engagement

Fractional

A weekly rhythm alongside your team over a quarter or two.

Most common

Interim

A full-time step-in while you search for the permanent lead.

Advisor

Ongoing sparring for founders on the hard people and org calls.

Let's talk about where your organisation is going.