Chantelle joined in 2017 as VP of Communications and manages our media relations and content strategies. Prior to Accel, she founded her own consulting practice, serving as a strategic communications partner to startup founders in consumer and enterprise technology. She was also an early employee at Yelp, helping to scale them from Series B to IPO and into the public markets. She grew up in Menlo Park, CA, and graduated from The University of St. Andrews.
Get to Know Chantelle
What was your first job?
I was a summer camp counselor. I had no idea how much it would prepare me for a career in public relations.
What’s the most impactful piece of advice you’ve received?
During an incredibly difficult time in my life, when I was trying to make sense of it all, my Mom said to me: "Life has a funny way of pulling you where you need to be, even if it doesn't feel like it at the time." She was right. Now, whenever I'm going through a hard time, instead of fighting it, I always reflect on this advice, which helps me think about the situation differently.
What is one thing you can't live without?
It's not that original, but I have to have a cup of black coffee pretty much the instant my eyes open in the morning. I sometimes think about that "The Office" episode with Michael, where he had a George Foreman grill in his bedroom to make bacon as soon as he woke up. That's how I feel about coffee.
What is your most used emoji, gif, or meme?
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