Who we are

Our
processapproach

Business-driven. Startup-informed.

Business-driven Approach
All projects start with a clearly-defined business challenge brief to ensure that we do not chase shiny objects and instead deliver targeted value.
Multi-dimensional Perspective
We look beyond a product-centric focus to explore new business models, new channels, new services, new technologies, new consumer experiences and the evolving path-to-purchase.
Venture-centric Methodology
We utilize proven startup processes & tools including venture pitch development, cash flow pro forma modeling and gated funding events.
Hybrid Innovation Structure
We roll up our sleeves to become part of the "founding team" and configure our services to match the expertise of our clients.
Integrated Systems & Tools
We provide turnkey commerce, marketing and fulfillment systems with built-in integration adapters and performance analytics.

We are

entrepreneurs

marketers

scientists

data analysts

designers

Andrew Backs Founder

Prior to co-founding Pilot44, Andrew led Procter & Gamble’s open innovation effort in Silicon Valley. He is an experienced corporate entrepreneur who spent 10 years at P&G and has marketing, retail, finance, M&A, partnership development & dealmaking experience. Andrew has a unique talent for bridging an entrepreneurial approach with the complexities of large company operations, cutting through the noise to bring meaningful solutions to market.

Jon Corshen Founder

Jon is a co-founder and Chief Technology Strategist at Pilot44. A serial technology entrepreneur, Jon has helped build several successful start-ups across a variety of market sectors. Throughout his career, Jon has touched almost every aspect of software design, development, marketing and deployment at both start-ups and public companies. Jon is a recognized expert in areas of social media and networking, Web commerce and collaboration.

Meet Our
San Francisco
crewteam

AC
Senior Manager, Growth Marketing
Ahmed
Venture Manager
Aidan
Senior Digital Business and Technology Strategist
Alison
Director of Business Development
Ben
Director, Digital and Business Strategy
Brady
Innovation Analyst Intern
Brendan
Senior Design Strategist
Brian
Director, Digital Transformation
Erin
Digital Business and Technology Strategist
Greta
Senior Digital Business and Technology Strategist
Harvey
Chief Operating Officer
Jackie
VP, Strategy & Ventures
Jeff
Chief Financial Officer
Jeffrey
Practice Partner, Supply Chain Innovation
Jen
Senior Innovation Researcher
Jenni
Finance
Jessalyn
Talent Acquisition & People Partner
Josh
Innovation Analyst
Josh
VP of Open Innovation
Katie
Innovation Researcher
Maddy
Venture Manager
Mark
Director, Emerging Technology
Marshal
Director of Venture Operations
Mary
Vice President of Research
Micki
Research Lead
Mickie
Design Strategist
Nate
Innovation Analyst
Noah
Innovation Analyst

And from elsewhere...

Johnny Hammond Managing Partner - Asia Pacific

Johnny is an experienced corporate innovator with more than a decade of experience across innovation and marketing strategy. Prior to joining Pilot44, he was Global Head of the Unilever Foundry, the company’s global platform for partnering with the world's best startups to accelerate innovation on a global scale. As one of the leading FMCG experts in technology and innovation, Johnny has scouted thousands of startups, driven pilot projects and brokered partnerships for corporates. Johnny has extensive experience in helping large companies to drive growth and competitive advantage through accelerated digital transformation.