When war broke out in Ukraine in 2022, Nico Woods was uniquely positioned to help. His path — from U.S. Navy Nuclear Submarine Officer to Stanford GSB graduate to Ukraine resident — had prepared him for exactly this moment. After receiving his MBA, Nico relocated to Ukraine and in 2021 founded Andean Partners LLC, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business providing comprehensive procurement support and humanitarian assistance. As Kevin Richardson, MBA ’97, and Jurelle Mendoza, John Woloszyn, and John Crawford, all MBA ’21, say, “Nico embodies the GSB motto by courageously remaining in Ukraine since 2022, pivoting from tech investments to founding Andean Partners and taking on a critical diplomatic role as senior advisor to Ukraine on defense production.”
In 2022, as part of Andean Partners LLC’s humanitarian efforts, he co-founded the Ukraine Freedom Fund, leading critical operations for a 501(c)(3) nonprofit during the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. “My journey from leading submarine operations to navigating complex international business environments has equipped me with invaluable insights into crisis management and strategic planning,” says Nico. Through his leadership, Nico has brought over $5 million in humanitarian aid to devastated communities, established essential partnerships between U.S. and Ukrainian defense organizations, and delivered over 260 micro power grid stations, helping Ukrainian police to keep order during energy shortages.
Combining his Stanford GSB education, Navy experience, and commitment to service, Nico has operated with a 100 percent on-time delivery rate in active war zones, which is no easy feat. He’s demonstrated how a strong business sense and organizational leadership skills can save lives and preserve sovereignty in the most challenging situations. It takes a very specific person not only to be able to manage but also to be successful in such a critical environment, and Nico is proving to be that person. “Adaptability is essential in any high-stakes industry, not just during wartime. Whether you’re in defense, business, or leadership, those who can adjust without losing momentum set themselves apart,” he says.
