Executive support is often the quiet engine behind the success of visionary leaders and innovative businesses, enabling them to focus on their strengths while ensuring operational efficiency. For Eryn Anitavi, the CEO and Founder of Sapphire Partners, executive support is more than just a business model; it is a transformative tool that empowers leaders to thrive. Through Sapphire Partners and The Sapphire Academy, Anitavi is building an ecosystem that supports neurodivergent leaders and redefines the role of executive support in the modern business world.
Anitavi’s journey into executive support began with a seemingly simple question at a networking event in 2018: Could you spare five hours a week to help me with my business? That question catalyzed the creation of Sapphire Partners, which has since grown into a premier provider of executive support services. The company offers tailored solutions to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and organizations, transforming mundane, day-to-day tasks into opportunities for growth and success. Today, Sapphire Partners specializes in working with neurodivergent leaders, a niche that reflects Anitavi’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.
Anitavi’s personal and professional background is integral to Sapphire Partners’ mission. Diagnosed as autistic later in life, she brings a unique perspective to the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in leadership roles. Her entrepreneurial journey, which began at the age of ten, has been marked by resilience, innovation, and a dedication to building solutions that meet complex needs. These experiences have shaped Sapphire Partners’ approach to executive support, emphasizing both human connection and cutting-edge technology.
One of the key differentiators of Sapphire Partners is its commitment to neurodivergence. The company fosters an environment where neurodivergent leaders feel seen, heard, and supported. This focus extends to Sapphire’s team, which includes individuals with diverse cognitive profiles. By embracing the strengths and challenges of neurodivergence, Sapphire Partners offers a level of empathy and understanding that sets it apart in the executive support industry.
Sapphire’s innovative use of technology further distinguishes its services. The company blends artificial intelligence, automation, and human expertise to create a unique methodology that maximizes efficiency and effectiveness. Tools such as the proprietary Clarity Matrix goal strategy system and a forthcoming predictive energy management algorithm are designed to help leaders align their goals with actionable strategies. These innovations demonstrate Sapphire Partners’ ability to merge forward-thinking technology with practical, results-driven support.
Anitavi’s leadership journey has not been without its challenges. Like many small business leaders, she has navigated financial constraints, difficult hiring decisions, and the complexities of scaling a company. These experiences have informed her approach to leadership and shaped Sapphire’s service model. For example, the company offers subscription-based pricing with over 250 customizable service options, making executive support accessible to businesses of all sizes. This adaptability has been a cornerstone of Sapphire’s success, enabling it to meet the diverse needs of its clients.
The importance of executive support extends beyond individual businesses. Anitavi advocates for venture capitalists and angel investors to require executive support as a condition of investment for startups. She believes that the right support system can be the difference between burnout and breakthrough for leaders, particularly in the high-stakes environment of entrepreneurship. Sapphire Partners exemplifies this philosophy by serving as a trusted partner to its clients, ensuring that they can focus on their core strengths while delegating operational responsibilities.
In addition to its service offerings, Sapphire Partners is making a broader impact through education and advocacy. The Sapphire Academy provides training for those interested in careers in executive support and business administration, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in a dynamic field. Anitavi’s public speaking engagements further amplify this mission, addressing topics such as leadership, neurodivergence, and the evolving role of executive support. Her vision is to inspire leaders to embrace their potential and create innovative solutions that benefit society as a whole.
Looking ahead, Sapphire Partners has ambitious plans for growth and innovation. The company aims to expand its services globally, with a particular focus on supporting neurodivergent leaders. The Sapphire Academy will continue to train the next generation of executive support professionals, fostering a community of skilled and empathetic individuals. Anitavi also envisions launching new ventures under the Sapphire brand, including Sapphire Technologies, which will develop AI-powered tools to enhance executive support further.
At the heart of Sapphire Partners’ vision is a commitment to building a life and business that align with one’s values and strengths. Anitavi’s leadership philosophy emphasizes the importance of empowering teams, embracing challenges, and pursuing meaningful goals. Phrases such as “Build a Life You Don’t Need a Vacation from” and “Leadership Never Gets Easier” just get more public and capture the essence of their approach. These principles are not just theoretical but embedded in every aspect of Sapphire Partners’ work.
Executive support is not merely a service but a critical component of sustainable leadership. By addressing leaders’ practical and emotional needs, Sapphire Partners enables them to focus on their brilliance and achieve their full potential. Whether through tailored support services, innovative technology, or educational programs, Sapphire Partners is redefining what it means to support leaders in a rapidly changing world. As the company continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its mission of empowering visionaries and transforming how businesses approach executive support.
Published by Stephanie M.