NEUVC #259: Paul Gillespie, MD of the Deep Tech Practice at Sheffield Haworth on talent, mentors and hiring

Today, Freddie Macpherson, analyst at Isomer Capital, and Linda Võeras, associate at Karma Ventures, are joined by Paul Gillespie, Managing Director at Sheffield Haworth, a global executive search firm with a specialty in deep tech. With over 20 years in the industry, he co-founded Gilmore Stevens, focusing on building executive teams for venture-backed businesses. After merging with Sheffield Haworth to expand globally, Paul now leads their deep tech practice, covering sectors from semiconductors to nuclear fusion. An electronic engineer by training, he thrives on the cutting-edge innovation in deep tech, despite the opportunity to retire. His recent projects include a significant investment deal with a French chip company, underscoring his commitment to the ever-evolving world of technology.Chapters:00:00:00 - Introduction to Paul Gillespie and the Importance of Talent in High Growth Companies00:02:24 - Deep Tech and the Exciting Era of Technology00:04:43 - Discovering Your Superpower in the Industry00:06:54 - Finding the Right Chief Operating Officer00:08:54 - The process of executive search00:11:11 - Creating a Viable Target List for Candidates00:13:28 - The Importance of Assessing Candidates Beyond Interviews00:15:43 - Approaching the Right Search Agency00:18:03 - The Importance of Having a Mentor and Advisor 00:20:13 - The Importance of Critical Hires00:22:26 - Attracting Talent with the Wow Factor00:24:30 - Key Factors for Startup Success00:26:50 - The Power of Evangelizing and Positioning Propositions00:28:56 - Common Mistakes in Hiring a CFO00:31:18 - Issues with CEO Hiring00:33:39 - The Importance of Feedback Loops and Communication 00:35:57 - The Importance of Good Hiring00:38:09 - The Role of Investors in the Hiring Process00:40:18 - Replacing Founder CEOs00:42:44 - The Role of the CEO in Company Growth00:45:05 - Skills for Success in Investment Roles00:47:18 - Understanding the Difference Between Titles and Skills00:49:24 - The Importance of Mentors and Retention in Hiring00:51:40 - Reflecting on Linder's Career