JO
John O'brien
Founder of SBS
Seattle, Washington
Overview
John O'Brien is the Founder of SBS Comms & OnBoard, with a strong background in media relations and strategic communications. He has successfully invested in startups such as Sanctuary AI and Lightmatter, focusing on sectors like GovTech, Space, and Web3/Blockchain.
With experience at notable organizations like CNN and The OutCast Agency, John has honed his skills in crisis communications and social media marketing, making him a sought-after investor in diverse and female-founded startups across various sectors and stages.
Work Experience
Founder
2017 - Current
SBS is for companies that need more than a PR Agency. We have driven strategic outcomes for some of the most innovative companies, institutions and venture firms on the planet including: The Allen Institute for AI, American Express, Arweave, Cloudflare, Deel, Flexport, GitHub, Lightmatter, OpenResearch, Paradigm, Plaid, Ramp, Relativity Space, Rivian, Runway AI, Shopify, Twitter, and many others.
SBS Comms is a PR agency that provides strategic media coverage, crisis communication, and digital consulting services.
Vice President of Media Strategy
2009 - 2017
Outcast marketing agency specializing in digital, communications, and branding.
Account Supervisor
2008 - 2009
HORN is a digital communications agency that combines PR, social media, and interactive services to help companies build their brand.
Senior Account Executive
2006 - 2008
Editor, Writer, Producer
2002 - 2006
Intern
2002 - 2002
Education
B.A.
1997 - 2001