Biography of Shama Amalean Skinner: Partner at NextGen Venture & Islex Consulting
Biography of Shama Amalean Skinner:
Journey of Leadership and Innovation
Shama Amalean Skinner is a dynamic executive, entrepreneur,
and board director whose career spans multiple industries and regions. With a
background in business and a keen sense of strategy, Shama has built a
reputation for her leadership in driving change and creating value. Throughout
her career, she has held key roles that have shaped innovative companies,
particularly in the areas of consumer goods and entrepreneurship.
Early Education and Career Foundations
Shama’s academic journey laid a solid foundation for her
future success. She pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Business Studies and French
from the University of Sheffield, graduating in 2008. During her time at
university, she also studied abroad at the Ecole Superieure de Commerce in
France, gaining an international perspective that would later influence her
career. This combination of business acumen and cultural awareness set her up
for a global career.
A Diverse Career Path
Over the years, Shama has worn many hats, from being an
advisor to taking on executive roles at leading companies. Her work is
characterized by her ability to pivot across various sectors and bring her
expertise in operations, strategy, and leadership to diverse businesses. From
being a Chief Operating Officer at Thinx Inc. to an advisor at XRC Ventures,
Shama’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping organizations.
Executive Leadership at Thinx
One of Shama’s most notable roles was serving as the Chief
Operating Officer at Thinx Inc., a company known for its innovative approach to
menstruation products. During her time there, Shama helped guide the company
through a period of rapid growth and transformation. She worked tirelessly to
ensure that Thinx remained a leader in the space, both in terms of product
development and brand positioning. Her leadership in operations played a
pivotal role in the company's success.
A Transition to Consulting and Fractional Executive Roles
In 2023, Shama took a step towards consulting and fractional
executive work, founding Islex Consulting. This allowed her to leverage her
extensive experience and provide strategic guidance to businesses in need of
executive leadership on a temporary or part-time basis. Through Islex
Consulting, she has helped numerous organizations navigate their challenges and
seize opportunities, using her deep understanding of operations, growth
strategies, and market dynamics.
Biography of Shama Amalean Skinner: Partner at NextGen Venture & Islex Consulting/fractional executive leadership/entrepreneur/startup/ Islex Consulti
Expanding Influence with Advisory Roles
In addition to her consulting work, Shama has played an
active role as an advisor to various companies and ventures. She has been an
advisor at XRC Ventures, a New York-based venture capital firm, since 2023,
helping startups scale and innovate. Shama also serves as a Venture Partner at
NextGen Venture Partners, where she works with other investors to support
high-potential companies. Her advisory roles reflect her commitment to
fostering innovation and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Guiding Future Entrepreneurs
Shama’s expertise has also been sought after in educational
settings. As a Guest Lecturer at Parsons School of Design, she shares her
knowledge and insights with students aspiring to build their careers in
business and entrepreneurship. Her role as a lecturer allows her to give back
to the community by shaping the minds of future leaders and innovators, passing
on her experiences to the next generation of professionals.
Board Leadership and Strategic Direction
Shama has expanded her leadership influence through her work
on boards. She has been a Member of the Board of Directors at Take2, a company
based in New Zealand, since 2023. Serving on the board has given Shama the
opportunity to provide strategic guidance and help shape the company’s future.
Her expertise in scaling businesses and driving operational efficiency makes
her a valuable asset to any organization looking to grow and succeed in today’s
competitive environment.
The Role of an Advisor at Thinx
Shama’s relationship with Thinx Inc. continues even after
her tenure as COO. She took on the role of Advisor at Thinx in 2022, helping
the company with strategic decision-making and offering guidance based on her
deep understanding of the company’s operations. This ongoing involvement
showcases Shama’s commitment to long-term partnerships and her ability to add
value even in advisory roles.
A Lifelong Dedication to Growth and Innovation
Shama Amalean Skinner’s career is a reflection of her
dedication to growth, innovation, and making an impact in every venture she
undertakes. From her education to her executive leadership roles, consulting
work, and board memberships, she has continually sought to push boundaries and
help organizations succeed. Whether leading a company, advising startups, or
shaping young minds as a lecturer, Shama’s influence continues to grow, making
her a respected figure in the world of business and beyond.
Timeline for story
2008 - Graduated with a BA in Business Studies and French
from the University of Sheffield.
2020 - Served as COO at Thinx Inc., leading operations
during its rapid growth.
2023 - Founded Islex Consulting, providing fractional
executive leadership.
2023 - Became an advisor at XRC Ventures and Venture Partner
at NextGen Venture Partners.
2023 - Joined the Board of Directors at Take2, a company
based in New Zealand.
2022 - Took on the role of Advisor at Thinx Inc., after her
tenure as COO.
2025 - Guest Lecturer at Parsons School of Design, shaping
future business leaders.
