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The Brief
Tiro are experts in solving talent challenges, and one common issue we encounter is helping start-ups transition from scientific concept to industrial reality. Many of the start-ups we work with face the familiar problem of proving their science in the lab but lacking the engineering skills to transform it into a scalable, industrial product.
Too much focus on the science, and the technology remains locked in the lab. Too much emphasis on engineering, and the product risks losing its cutting-edge, disruptive nature. Success lies in realising potential with a clear vision, careful hiring, overcoming the challenges of attracting talent in a skill-short location, and meeting the funding milestones necessary for scale-up.
One such company, formed by six founders, approached Tiro for help in building a team capable of industrialising their concept.
Requirement
The company required a multi-team, multi-skill hiring process, from departmental managers to experienced engineers, as they scaled from 6 to 50 staff, all while meeting critical funding stage gates.
The key roles included:
- Head of Design
- Head of Test, Validation, and Release
- Head of Projects
- Head of Sales
- Head of Aftermarket Delivery
- Engineers to build and expand each department
Tiro Solution
- Business Objectives. We first understood the client’s long-term goals – whether they aimed for an IP sale, manufacturing, or licensing.
- Cultural Understanding. We delved into the founders’ culture and drivers to ensure the team would align with their vision.
- Salary Mapping. Conducted a salary and market package analysis to identify risks around salary expectations, share options, and location.
- Talent Mapping. We mapped the best industry talent across Europe, particularly from competing projects in similar markets.
- Framework Planning. Designed a hiring framework, including contracts, share options, and a multi-hiring process.
- Tiro Interviews. Our interviews focused on cultural fit, team synergy, and the skills needed to both deliver and grow the business.
- Risk Management. Developed a hiring risk plan, outlining timing, priorities, reporting, and communication processes.
- Attraction Plan. Created a tailored attraction strategy, utilising our database, networking, and headhunting activities.
- Tiro Resources. Assigned a dedicated Tiro team to drive the strategy and deliver results.
- Execution. Go to the market. Drive the strategy. Deliver the plan.
Outcome
Tiro applied its proven talent attraction process, leveraging our experience in building high-performing teams and delivering products to market. We helped the start-up scale from proof of concept through to securing a major commercial client, all while meeting key funding milestones. By working with Tiro, the company was able to successfully move from round 1 funding to a working system ready for industrialisation.
Find Your Way Out of the Lab and into the Market
If your start-up is struggling to bridge the gap between concept and industrialisation, Tiro can help. We specialise in attracting the right talent to drive your business forward, navigating the challenges of scaling and delivering success. Set up a call with Tiro today and let us guide you through the next phase of your growth.
