Ryan Petersen of Flexport at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

Navigating Constant Change: A Focus for Founders

A significant challenge currently confronting startup founders revolves around maintaining momentum in an environment characterized by continually evolving conditions.

How can companies continue to grow and innovate when the established norms are in a state of flux?

Ryan Petersen at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025

Insights into this critical question will be shared at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025. This event marks TechCrunch’s 20th anniversary and will be held from October 27-29 at Moscone West in San Francisco.

Featured Speaker: Ryan Petersen

Ryan Petersen, the founder and CEO of Flexport, will be a featured speaker. He will present his perspectives on the Builders Stage.

Petersen’s address promises to offer valuable guidance for navigating the complexities of a dynamic business landscape.

The Significance of Ryan Petersen’s Experience

Having founded Flexport in 2013, Ryan Petersen has facilitated the movement of goods valued at over $175 billion for more than 10,000 businesses globally.

This accomplishment was achieved alongside securing $2.3 billion in funding and fundamentally changing the approach to supply chain management within a dynamic, technology-focused landscape.

However, Petersen’s insights extend considerably beyond the realm of logistics operations.

Following a departure from his role as CEO in 2022, he resumed the position within a year to stabilize the company and guide its subsequent expansion.

Throughout this period, Petersen has emerged as a prominent commentator on subjects including trade regulations, tariff structures, and the increasing influence of AI on international trade.

A Return to Leadership

Petersen’s decision to reassume the CEO position highlights his commitment to Flexport’s long-term success.

This move demonstrated a proactive approach to navigating challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities within the global supply chain.

His leadership is particularly relevant given the increasing complexities of modern trade.

Key Areas of Expertise

Petersen’s commentary frequently addresses critical aspects of international commerce.

These include:

Tariffs and their impact on businesses.
Trade policy and its implications for global markets.
The transformative potential of AI within the supply chain.

His perspectives offer valuable insights for companies operating in an increasingly interconnected world.

Key Takeaways

This session focuses on practical application, offering a deep dive into navigating challenging circumstances. Petersen will reveal insights into:

Effective leadership strategies during periods of instability and unpredictability.
The processes involved in adapting strategic plans while already in progress.
Methods for harmonizing ambitious future goals with immediate operational needs.

Leading in Dynamic Environments

Successfully guiding a team through volatile times requires a specific skillset. Petersen will detail approaches to maintaining focus and direction when facing constant change.

Mid-Course Strategy Adjustments

Circumstances often necessitate a shift in planned strategies. The session will cover how to identify the need for adjustments and implement them effectively.

Balancing Vision and Reality

Maintaining a long-term vision is crucial, but it must be grounded in present-day realities. Petersen will explore techniques for achieving this balance.

Understanding how to navigate these challenges is paramount for sustained success. This masterclass provides actionable strategies for leaders at all levels.

The core of the discussion will center around building organizational resilience and fostering clear communication under pressure.