Best headhunters / recruiters for startups?

Title says it all. Started career with 3+ years experience in software IB and currently at a VC firm but looking to make the jump in operations somewhere. Already utilizing cold email and LinkedIn channels so looking to increase my coverage for opportunities that may not be posted.

5 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some headhunters and recruiters that might be useful for your transition into startups:

  1. TomBetteridgeRecruiter: Specializes in M&A finance fields and has recently started working with ASX listed corporates on group-based strategical M&A roles and startups. His placements range from analyst level to director.

  2. General Recommendations:

    • For Private Equity: KEA, Walker Hamill, Blackwood, PER, Dartmouth (Arkesden, more focused on IB though).
    • For Hedge Funds: No specific names provided, but you might want to explore similar networks.
  3. Direct Outreach:

    • Utilize LinkedIn and cold emails to reach out directly to Directors of Research (DoRs) or top analysts at banks, as they might have connections or insights into startup opportunities.
  4. Networking:

    • Engage with your old undergrad network and use platforms like Bloomberg to find people in the field you are looking to work in.

These strategies and contacts should help you increase your coverage for opportunities that may not be posted.

Sources: Best Headhunting Shops ?, Q&A: Headhunter/Recruiter - M&A Investment Banking, 20 Most Frequently Asked Questions - London Edition, "Leaving IB Soon, Final Rants" - The Follow-Up, Can we source some headhunter mentors?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

I mean, I would love to be corrected, but fairly sure startups wouldn't use headhunters? They can't afford those fees. Best bet is direct outreach and VC intros. Maybe really large privates like Stripe use headhunters but honestly would be surprised.

It says you work in VC. Genuinely curious but wouldn't you know this?

 

I guess maybe "startup" isn't the right word here. Our portcos that have gone on to raise series B/C/D use them quite often for filling roles at all levels rather than hiring internal recruiters.

 

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