Chantal E.

Fractional COO & Operations Lead | Processes, Systems & AI Automation

Hi, I'm Chantal. I make operations cheaper to run and reduce overwhelm. I design how the work should happen, build the systems and automations that keep it running without adding headcount. Some of what I've built: → HubSpot implementation for a €25M+ e-commerce leader with full workflow design and training. → Rebuilt research project and process management operations for a Dutch hospital department (48 researchers, 80+ studies), improving turnaround time ~30% and reducing errors ~40%. → Designed AI onboarding for an NGO (WhatsApp + CRM), automating 80% of intake and raising completion by ~30%. → Built multi-channel automations for an integration with a SaaS, cutting manual work 70%+ and improving lead response time ~40%. Also available based on a monthly retainer. What makes me different: Most automation freelancers are developers. They build what you ask for, not what your business actually needs. I start with operations first. I help businesses fix messy workflows, bottlenecks, and broken handoffs before automating anything. With 20+ years of experience in operations, project leadership, and process design across startups, healthcare, research, and growing businesses, I build systems that support growth instead of adding more complexity. About Me I’m a systems and process-driven operator with 20+ years of experience supporting founders, CEOs, and leadership teams across startups, scaleups, NGOs, and research environments. My strength is turning complexity into clarity - building the structure, rhythm, and execution needed to keep businesses running and scaling smoothly. I built operating systems from scratch. I’m usually brought in when things feel messy, fast-moving, or stuck. I map what’s happening, redesign broken workflows, organise the projects, and build an operating rhythm that brings the whole team into alignment again. My background spans operations, project and process management, team oversight, SaaS implementations, research workflows, and cross-functional coordination. I’ve led remote teams, implemented new systems from scratch, and supported clients through fast-growth phases where clarity, accountability, and structured execution are essential. Alongside this, I work with AI tools and automation platforms to reduce manual work, increase efficiency, and streamline operations without adding headcount. My approach blends operational leadership, process optimisation, behavioural psychology, and system design - I don’t just design systems; I make sure they actually work in daily operations. Familiar with tools like Claude, Manus, Airtable, Make, n8n, Replit, just to name a few. If you need someone who can step in, get a clear view of the situation, rebuild structure, manage the moving parts, and keep everything running smoothly, I take this off your plate so you can stay focused on leading the business. What I Can Help You With Fractional COO / Chief of Staff support Operational audits & execution plans Workflow redesign & SOP development Project and program management AI & Automation CRM/SaaS implementations support Building internal processes & knowledge systems Remote team management & KPI structures Onboarding frameworks for staff, clients, or participants Cross-functional coordination & leadership support Skills & Tools Operations & Systems: Operations Management, Process Optimization, Project Management, KPI Frameworks, SOP Development, Org & Workflow Design, Knowledge Management Automation & AI: n8n, Make, Zapier, OpenAI/ChatGPT, Claude, Manus, Airtable, Make, n8n, Replit. CRM & Other Tools: HubSpot, Odoo, Notion, ClickUp, Monday, Slack, Asana, BI (Business Intelligence), Castor Clinical software Leadership & Team: Team Oversight, Cross-Functional Coordination, Stakeholder Management, Training & Coaching, Remote Team Leadership