When it comes to hiring a CEO for a startup, I've seen many boards make suboptimal choices, often focusing too much on "experience in the space" rather than finding the right leader for a startup's unique needs.
Here's my distilled approach to identifying the ideal CEO:
1. Define the Ideal Candidate Through Real Examples
Rather than drafting a generic job spec that reads like a wish list, start by examining top resumes. Annotate these with positive and negative traits to create a more realistic candidate profile. This approach is far more effective than relying on overly broad recruiter specs.
2. Choose the Right Search Firm
Opt for smaller search firms with a strong network and instinct for finding entrepreneurial candidates. Large firms often excel at filling roles in established companies but may miss the mark when it comes to startups and growth-stage companies.
3. The Technical Athlete, Not the “Expert”
Seek candidates with some experience in the industry but avoid those too entrenched in the old ways of doing things. For instance, in an orthopedic startup, look for someone with a background in complex engineering who can bring fresh perspectives rather than someone with deca...
