Two Fish LabsI've seen what breaks. I know how to fix it.
From startups to big tech to global strategic design consultancies, I've built and rebuilt engineering organizations in nearly every kind of company there is. That range is the point: a fractional CTO doesn't get to pick the problem walking in the door, so the credibility has to come from having already solved a lot of different ones.
I led a platform team at Amazon serving hundreds of millions of users on the retail site and mobile app. I directed a 50-person global technology organization at frog, delivering complex digital platforms across industries, from automotive and mobility to retail and telecommunications. And I grew engineering at T3 through its highest-growth years, more than tripling capacity across a team of 50, without losing the culture or the quality bar that got the team there in the first place.
I'm based in Austin, Texas, and available for remote work and travel as needed.
What people say
“I spent the last few years working with Nelan in some sort of capacity. Be it solving individual one-off technology problems or scaling clients systems to meet the expectations of the future, Nelan can do it all. He is extremely thoughtful of his approach, he is very thorough on what he is conveying and takes the time to think through the best case scenario for all sides. Whether it be leading large technology teams or working collaboratively on new business efforts, in our time together Nelan has made our work smarter and more thought-provoking. At the end of the day, when you work in the world we work in, he is one very kind and thoughtful human. And that matters.”
Carolyn ConnollyCMO, Austin PBS & Austin City Limits
“If Nelan's charm didn't get you at the door, his skills would broadside you just inside it. By far one of the most authentic and thoughtful men I've ever met in this nutty business, he backs up a calm-in-the-storm demeanor with a straightforward but detailed approach to technology. Integrity, pride, and certainty in a job well done are hallmarks of anything he touches. You'd be lucky to cross paths with a guy both honorable and so deeply skilled in his craft. I certainly have been.”
Chris WoosterExecutive Creative Director, T3 (now Material)
“Nelan is one very well equipped technology leader. He has the knowledge, the skills and most importantly the ability to think through any solution accepted or decision made to its tiniest details. He has the charisma to lead and the communication skills to keep the team he leads in the know of what is the destination. Working with Nelan was fun and I always had this feeling of someone having my back. Would love to experience this kind of team work again.”
Ivan KarpanManaging Partner, OneReach.ai
“I started working with Nelan when I was working with T3 for a project with a large scope and very complex systems for a global brand. I was impressed with Nelan’s ability to properly allocate resources to the project, determine when we need to scale up/down resources depending on the current status of the project. Nelan was also able to allocate the right amount of resources and the right team composition to execute such a complex project. I was even more impressed with Nelan’s management style of positively encouraging the team to grow beyond their wildest expectations, which as a result created a wave that lifted all boats (resources) instead of just focusing on some boats. Any team would be lucky to have Nelan!”
Hersh AminTechnical Architect, T3 (now Material)
“Nelan is the perfect mix of technical knowledge and humanity. He has a thoughtful, balanced approach to the most complex problems and systems, but the best part about Nelan is that he never forgets that people are making and using these systems. He’s the type of leader who can run a large team and keep them motivated while still being able to run multiple projects to their best possible conclusion.”
Justin ClemensSr. Lead Content Strategist, AT&T
“Nelan and I worked closely together for several years at an EdTech start-up. Early in my product career, Nelan helped me refine my skills and understanding on product design, scoping products and features, and refining designs and requirements. We worked closely on several complex projects that were greatly enhanced by Nelan's expertise and guidance. Later, Nelan and I worked closely as product and engineering counterparts to prioritize a bloated back-log to optimize balancing product objectives and engineering viability and capacity. Throughout our time working together, and especially in stressful situations, Nelan was always a kind, supportive, and collaborative colleague. I would highly recommend Nelan for any team looking for a thoughtful, effective, and collaborative teammate and would love to work with him in the future.”
Tom BaileyProduct Manager, Acadeum
“I had the pleasure of working with and under Nelan during my time at Amazon. He had a great working relationship with me, as well as with my colleagues. One of the main things I like about him is his high organization skills at work. He goes an extra mile to ensure that there are enough details in his work and it's presented in an organized way. He's also a great listener and communicator. Our 1:1 sessions are never enough because our conversations are always smooth and productive. When faced with tight timelines, Nelan always goes above and beyond to meet those timelines and adjust priorities accordingly. I hope our paths cross in the near future!”
Omar MustafaSoftware Engineer, Amazon