In the dynamic world of modern business, neurodivergent leaders are increasingly contributing to industries with their creativity, innovation, and unique problem-solving approaches. However, their distinct leadership styles may require specialized support to navigate the complexities of growth and day-to-day operations effectively. Sapphire Partners, led by CEO and Founder Eryn Anitavi, offers a tailored approach that combines executive support with a deep understanding of neurodivergence.
Anitavi’s journey into this field began with a transformative question at a networking event: “Could you spare five hours a week to help me with my business?” This moment led to the creation of a managed service aimed at helping leaders focus more on their strengths while delegating operational tasks that can sometimes lead to burnout. Today, Sapphire Partners provides a service model designed to support leaders in managing the complexities of their business operations, with a focus on neurodivergent needs.
Neurodivergent leaders, including those with autism and ADHD, are often recognized for their abilities in areas such as innovation, strategy, and creativity. Their distinctive approaches to problem-solving can lead to visionary thinking. However, they may also face challenges in areas like executive functioning, energy management, and handling daily operational tasks. Recognizing these challenges, Sapphire Partners strives to offer a tailored approach that may help address these needs.
A core part of Sapphire Partners’ methodology is the Clarity Matrix, a proprietary framework designed to help leaders organize their goals and strategies. While the tool is designed to assist leaders in breaking down long-term goals into manageable steps, its effectiveness may vary depending on individual needs and preferences. The Clarity Matrix aims to support leaders in organizing their work and avoiding potential challenges like disorganized planning or incomplete projects.
Sapphire Partners is also developing a predictive energy management algorithm, which may help leaders optimize their schedules based on their natural energy levels and cognitive rhythms. For neurodivergent individuals, who may experience fluctuating energy patterns, this type of tailored support could potentially improve scheduling efficiency.
Anitavi’s understanding of neurodivergence is not just theoretical. Her own experiences as an autistic entrepreneur have shaped the values and practices of Sapphire Partners. This lived experience informs her commitment to creating an inclusive environment both within her company and for the clients it serves. The firm’s team is trained to recognize and respect the unique working styles of neurodivergent leaders, ensuring that support is personalized and adaptable to individual needs.
The impact of this specialized executive support can be profound. For neurodivergent leaders, having a team that understands their needs may lead to increased fulfillment and a more efficient approach to tasks. Tasks that may once have felt insurmountable—whether it’s managing client communications, organizing complex schedules, or handling administrative details—could become more manageable, enabling leaders to focus more on their strengths. This may lead to greater confidence in scaling their businesses.
Sapphire Partners’ commitment to neurodivergent leaders also extends to its pricing and service structure. Unlike traditional executive support models, which may be rigid or cost-prohibitive, Sapphire offers a subscription-based pricing model with over 250 service options. This flexibility could make the service more accessible to solopreneurs and small businesses, ensuring that visionary leaders at all stages of growth can potentially access the support they need.
The company’s approach has earned recognition not only for its results but also for its values. By fostering an environment where neurodivergent leaders feel seen, heard, and empowered, Sapphire Partners is helping to break down societal stigmas and redefine what leadership looks like. The message is clear: neurodivergence is viewed as not a limitation but a powerful asset when supported effectively.
Anitavi’s dedication to this mission extends beyond Sapphire Partners. Through The Sapphire Academy, she is building an educational platform to train the next generation of executive support professionals. The academy focuses on equipping individuals with the skills needed to support diverse leaders, ensuring that neurodivergent visionaries continue to receive the specialized assistance they require. This emphasis on education reflects Anitavi’s broader vision of creating a more inclusive and innovative business landscape.
The importance of this work cannot be overstated. As venture capitalists and angel investors increasingly recognize the value of neurodivergent leaders, there is a growing need for executive support to be integrated into early-stage investments. Anitavi advocates for this as a potential condition for funding, arguing that the right support could significantly enhance a leader’s ability to scale and succeed. It’s a perspective rooted in her belief that leadership, while challenging, may become more effective when paired with the right tools and team.
Sapphire Partners’ approach is not just about solving problems; it’s about unlocking potential. By bridging the gap between vision and execution, the company aims to enable neurodivergent leaders to focus on what they do best—innovating, creating, and driving change. In doing so, it is helping to shape a future where leadership is as diverse as the challenges it seeks to address.
Through its work, Sapphire Partners is demonstrating that executive support is not a luxury but a necessity for businesses of all sizes. For neurodivergent leaders, in particular, it provides a foundation for thriving in a world that may sometimes undervalue different ways of thinking. By championing the strengths of these leaders and providing the tailored support they need, Sapphire Partners is not only transforming individual businesses but also contributing to a more inclusive and innovative economy.
Published by Charlie N.
