From PhD to Leadership Operations
Nelson Endebo, a Leadership Operations Associate at Spring Education Group, shares how he went from a PhD in Comparative Literature to solving complex systems challenges across K–12 schools.
👔 The Job 👔
Nelson Endebo is a Leadership Operations Associate at Spring Education Group in San Francisco, CA — a company that owns and operates over 200 private K–12 schools in the U.S. and East Asia.
His role bridges the schools and the central office. One day, he might be improving an online bookstore. The next, he’s designing a system to improve classroom scheduling — or figuring out how to boost teacher retention.
With his systems thinking and outgoing personality, Nelson thrives in this dynamic, people-centered role.
Best part of the job:
The variety of problems and people — Nelson loves being immersed in school communities while tackling strategic challenges that keep him learning and growing.
🛣️ The Path 🛣️
Nelson’s transition was years in the making. While finishing his PhD, he worked part-time as an Associate Product Manager (APM) — building skills and gaining experience outside the classroom.
When the right role opened up, it was a referral that landed him the interview. Proof that networking does indeed have benefits!
Key steps in his career journey:
PhD student + Part-Time APM (2 years) ➡️ Leadership Operations Associate
🧠 The Decision 🧠
Nelson’s choice to leave academia was both intellectual and practical.
He saw structural issues — an overcrowded, underpaid job market with unsustainable expectations — and knew early on it wasn’t for him. But actually pivoting took years of effort, upskilling, and working outside of his PhD.
Though it was a lot of work, Nelson has no doubt that leaving was the best professional decision he ever made.
💡 The Advice 💡
Prestige doesn’t guarantee results: Having attended a big-name university will not automatically give you anything.
Start your pivot early — and plan for the long haul: Figure out an industry you want to go into and then a role. And as a heads up, your job search will likely take longer than you think, and that’s totally normal.
Do not take non-academic career advice from faculty only: Make sure you surround yourself with a diversity of mentors, especially those who have been where you want to go.
Network intentionally: Networking is fundamental, but without a clear strategy, you’ll burn out fast. Networking works best when it’s intentional.
Check out the PhD Paths database to network with PhDs willing to help you find your next career step!
🔑 The Takeaway 🔑
Nelson’s story is a powerful reminder: leaving academia isn’t failure — it’s strategy.
His journey shows what’s possible with self-awareness, perseverance, and a long-term plan. Your PhD is more than a credential — it’s a foundation for building a fulfilling career on your own terms.
This is such a fascinating story! Nelson's journey is so inspirational. Thank you so much for sharing this. I actually never considered a career in education. I have been only thinking about continuing in the stem cell industry although I severely lack contacts here. How does one begin forming connections apart from attending conferences? I am a people person, BIG time. I love talking to and helping people however I can. And education, not just straight-up teaching, but the way Nelson works, seems like something I can do too.