Captivate Technology Case Study: First CEO hire for founder led startup
Captivate Technology is a deep tech start up that’s developed a novel materials technology designed to capture carbon from industrial emissions.
Problem
The technology had progressed from laboratory development to a demonstration model, and as the company prepared for its next stage of growth, the Founder and board decided to appoint a CEO. At the same time, the founder transitioned into the role of CTO, creating the need to build a strong leadership team around a CEO, CTO, CCO (Commercial).
The CEO needed the experience to scale the company from demonstration to commercial deployment. Equally important was capability in capital raising, investor relations, and the commercialisation of technology. The role required an entrepreneurial, resilient leader with strong financial and business development capability, a collaborative leadership style, and a genuine motivation to drive growth - fast. The fit between the founder and CEO was critical.
Solution
We conducted a global search, intentionally remaining open to candidates from a range of industries rather than requiring identical experience. Using a structured evaluation matrix and collaborative interview process - which provided we refined the key capabilities required for success and assessed candidates against these criteria.
Impact
The process ultimately resulted in the appointment of a CEO who brings a strong commercial perspective to complement the scientific foundation of the business, positioning the company to successfully scale its technology and deliver impact in the global decarbonisation effort.
Lauren Salisbury, Chief Executive Officer, Captivate TechnologyI had the opportunity to work with Fleur during my recruitment into the CEO role at Captivate Technology, and the experience stood out from the very beginning.
Fleur has a genuine ability to connect with people. She takes the time to understand who you are, not just what’s written on a CV, and brings a level of insight into the process that makes the conversations meaningful and grounded.
What impressed me most was the way she ran the process. It was structured, transparent, and thoughtful throughout. I was never left second-guessing where things stood. The experience was professional, honest, and refreshingly straightforward.
Fleur also brings a strong understanding of the businesses she represents. She clearly invests time in understanding the strategy, leadership dynamics, and what success in the role actually looks like. That allows her to provide practical advice and guidance rather than simply acting as an intermediary.
Even after the placement, the relationship hasn’t ended. Fleur continues to be someone I value for perspective and support, which says a lot about the way she approaches her work and the relationships she builds.
I would highly recommend Fleur to boards and executives considering their next move.
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