Maria
Head of IT recruitment in Lucky Hunter

Executive search: How We Found a CTO for a blockchain project in a month?

What aspects do IT employers consider when selecting a CTO, and what steps are involved in the hiring process for this role? Explore our latest case to learn how our Head of IT recruitment, Maria, successfully identified a CTO for an international blockchain project within a month.

Executive search: the task and difficulties

A while ago, a global blockchain company approached us with a request to find a CTO for their upcoming project. Given that the project was in its early stages, the company sought an experienced senior executive capable of overseeing all technical aspects and assembling a brand-new development team.

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The vacancy had several criteria that have narrowed the pool of potential candidates.

The ideal candidate should possess the following qualifications:
  • 1
    Extensive experience in project management, particularly within the fintech industry. Furthermore, the client carefully reviewed all the projects listed in the candidates' CVs due to the poor reputation of blockchain projects at the time.
  • 2
    High level of English proficiency (C1).
  • 3
    Excellent soft skills, including negotiation skills, a talent for teamwork, and team management.
  • 4
    In addition to these requirements, the selection process included several steps, with a final in-person meeting with the company's directors in Israel.
  • 5
    Despite the option for remote work, the CTO must be prepared for business trips to countries where the company has offices, including Israel, Switzerland, and the CIS region.
However, the terms presented by the client were competitive and appealing to potential candidates. These included a generous salary range in dollars, the option to work remotely from any location worldwide, and engaging, inspiring tasks. Furthermore, the client did not limit their search to specific regions but remained open to candidates from diverse countries, thus broadening the candidate pool considerably.

How we've filled the vacancy

Considering the client's essential criteria, Maria created a candidate profile. The ideal specialist should possess extensive experience in working in reputable international fintech projects from their inception, demonstrate proficient English language skills, be prepared for international business travel, and exhibit well-developed soft skills that align with the company's stakeholders. Given the extensive geography of the search, Maria used multiple channels and tools to identify potential candidates:
  • LinkedIn;
  • Thematic chats and channels in messengers;
  • Specialised recruiting services like AmazingHiring;
  • Our database of candidates.
One of the finalists who received an offer from the client was found on LinkedIn. This candidate had a decade of experience as the head of a development department at a prominent fintech company, exhibited excellent English proficiency, and established an immediate connection with all project stakeholders, aligning well with their objectives and vision. Furthermore, at the time of the selection process, the candidate had been living in two different cities for several years, making the prospect of frequent business trips not an obstacle but rather an exciting opportunity. Even the requirement to travel to Israel for a final in-person interview did not decrease the candidate's enthusiasm and determination.

The candidate accepted the job offer: notably, it took only a month from the initial discussion of the job opening to their entry into the project. It is an excellent result for hiring an executive specialist.

Success factors

The terms presented by the client were competitive and appealing to potential candidates. These included a generous salary range in dollars, the option to work remotely from any location worldwide, and engaging, inspiring tasks. Furthermore, the client did not limit their search to specific regions but remained open to candidates from diverse countries, thus considerably expanding the applicant pool.
  • The Principle of Partnership
    Maria determined the candidate profile, enhancing the precision and efficacy of our search
  • A Competent Search Strategy
    The customer was actively involved in the process and listened to our advice, demonstrating a genuine interest in finding the ideal CTO. They provided timely feedback, promptly confirmed meeting schedules and ensured that candidates maintained motivation throughout the selection process, even when it involved numerous stages.
  • Lucky Hunter's Expertise
    Lucky Hunter has been offering recruiting services for years: we also specialise in Executive Search. Our recruiters have an in-depth understanding of the unique requirements for selecting top-notch tech managers.

Lucky Hunter will find any top-level IT specialist for Executive roles. Fill out the form and allow us to take care of recruitment for you.

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