Jerry Straks - Jerry is a certified coach with a special affinity for mentoring high technology professionals and leaders who want more from their careers. Whatever clients face that might be eroding their passion, challenging their confidence, or keeping them “stuck” instead of pursuing their dream, leadership coaching can help get them past it. High potential middle managers and executives can enhance their chances of converting their potential into reality.

Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Jerry spent 25 years in the high tech industry prior to founding Petra Associates in 2003. He has worked for companies ranging from Fortune 500 companies to startups. Managing teams ranging from 5 to 250, Jerry has led corporate functions ranging from engineering to marketing and product management, including holding P&L accountability.

In addition to line management, he has experience in corporate strategy, business development, and business planning and analysis. Known for repeatedly turning around products, projects, and departments via strategic rethinking or repositioning rather than the "slash-and-burn" tactics advocated by some, he has increased profitability not just for single products, but for divisions and companies.

Jerry earned a B.A. from Macalester College and did graduate work in physics at Purdue University. He is a candidate for a master’s degree in organizational psychology from John F. Kennedy University, and has been certified by JFKU as a professional coach