Meet Magalie Heraud, Founder & CEO of Growth & Co

Tell us more about Growth & Co.
Growth & Co helps scaling businesses unlock sustainable growth on demand—delivering executive-level impact without the overhead of a full-time hire. Through fractional growth leadership and the Growth Navigator Assessment, we bring clarity, alignment, and results.

Please give some more details of your startup story: what was the “aha” moment that led to the idea for your startup?
After 20 years in growth and customer leadership, including a decade in tech, I saw too many founders stretched thin and growth delayed by lack of bandwidth. The “aha” was realizing companies don’t always need a full-time exec—they need fractional leadership that delivers clarity and traction fast.

So, what’s next for you—what’s a bold goal you’re chasing right now?
Our bold goal is to position Growth-as-a-Service as the new norm for scaling businesses in Switzerland and beyond. By 2026, I aim for Growth & Co to be the go-to partner for scale-ups, delivering measurable impact within 90 days—while helping purpose-driven companies grow sustainably.

Which decision (big or small) had the most unexpected positive impact on your startup?
One small but game-changing decision was productizing our Growth Navigator Assessment as an entry tool. It gave founders a fast, low-friction way to gain clarity—and often revealed hidden priorities. This single tool created trust, accelerated conversions, and proved that “assessment before action” works.

How did you build your team, and what helps you maintain your startup culture?
I’m currently a one-woman show, keeping Growth & Co lean by automating and productizing for sustainable growth. I anchor everything in curiosity, integrity, and courage—and believe in the power of partnerships to expand impact and build lasting alliances.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?
If I could start again, I’d trust my instincts earlier and productize faster. My biggest learning: clarity beats complexity. Businesses don’t need 50 initiatives—they need 3–5 priorities done well. Helping clients cut the noise taught me to apply the same principle to my own growth journey.

Building a startup requires resilience, how do you stay focused during tough times?
I remind myself that growth is a marathon, not a sprint. During tough times, I return to my “why”: enabling founders to scale without burning out. Walking my dog, grounding in nature, and celebrating small wins help me keep perspective and energy—so I can model resilience for clients.

One piece of advice for someone who is just starting out with their startup?
Don’t try to do it all at once. Focus on clarity: pick 3 priorities, not 30. Validate fast, iterate, and surround yourself with guides who’ve been there before. Sustainable growth comes from alignment, not hustle. Ask better questions early—and growth will follow.

What’s your outlook on the future of the Swiss startup scene, and how can it compete internationally?
Switzerland has world-class innovation but must embrace faster execution to compete globally. We can win by combining our precision and quality with boldness, speed, and international collaboration. The future lies in more fractional leadership and agile scaling—giving startups the muscle without the overhead.

What value do you see in being part of the Swiss Startup Association?
The SSA creates a powerful community of shared knowledge, advocacy, and visibility. For me, it’s a platform to both contribute and connect—amplifying Growth & Co’s mission while learning from peers. Personally, it anchors me in Switzerland’s vibrant startup ecosystem; professionally, it opens doors to collaboration and clients.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the community?
I believe growth should be sustainable—for people, profit, and planet. At Growth & Co, we challenge the old belief that bigger always means better. My fun fact? I do business in sneakers: fast-moving, grounded, and real. Let’s shape a new growth paradigm together.

Check out Magalie’s LinkedIn here!

About the Swiss Startup Association

The Swiss Startup Association (SSA) is the umbrella organisation and the voice of Swiss startups. As a sector-independent non-profit organisation, the SSA gives startups a strong voice vis-à-vis politics, business, and works to improve the conditions for startups in Switzerland.
Beyond its political engagement, the SSA fosters a community for startups, recognizing the unique challenges they face. Through networking opportunities, educational sessions, and practical services, the SSA collaborates with industry partners to offer tailored support and valuable resources to guide founders on their entrepreneurial journey.

Join the Swiss Startup Association! Tap into our member benefits, the comprehensive Investor List and get full access to our events. By becoming an SSA Member you enjoy discounted tickets to our Big Founders Dinners and the SSA Founders Day.