Drake Gearheart

Head of Product Innovation & Scalability | Expert in scaling Tech Startup teams | Helping Executives and Founders bridge Strategy and Execution

Drake Gearheart is the Co-Founder and Head of Product & Scalability at Makeke, a platform designed to help users discover and shop from independent retailers. His role involves shaping strategies for software innovation investments, focusing on maximizing value outcomes for startups and high-growth companies.1 2

Professional Background

Military Experience: Gearheart is a 20-year veteran of the U.S. military, having served in both the Army and Air Force. His roles included intelligence and reconnaissance operations, which provided him with a strong foundation in leadership and strategic planning.1
Consulting and Advisory: He has extensive experience as an enterprise agility and digital transformation consultant, working with various organizations to enhance their innovation capabilities.1
Agile Software Development: Gearheart led H&R Block's first agile software development project, showcasing his expertise in modern development methodologies.1

Education

He holds a degree from the University of Kansas, which complements his practical experience in technology and management.2

Contributions to Startups

Gearheart specializes in advising early-stage startups on navigating growth challenges, connecting strategy to execution, and preparing for funding rounds. His insights into the economics of innovation help organizations optimize their software investments for better performance and faster market delivery.1 2