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Last time, we looked at at what it means to lead with purpose and perspective beyond the clichéd playbooks and standard frameworks.
This time, we’re shifting the lens to talent and hiring, exploring what it truly takes to build teams that last. Not just job specs or interview checklists, but the instincts, values and long-term vision that shape how organisations attract, select and nurture the people who drive them forward.
Hiring Good People
Amar Galla (Toolagen) shares that his early belief in hiring people who perfectly matched his company’s vision proved flawed. When a seemingly ideal hire left, he realised alignment of goals cannot be absolute. Successful hiring, he believes, is about finding people moving in the same direction and contributing positively to the journey, even if their aspirations or timelines differ.
Creating the Unicorn Job Profile
Henry Draper (Albany Partners) recalls how, in Albany’s early days, they often accepted client briefs that tried to solve multiple challenges with a single “unicorn” hire. These searches dragged on and rarely delivered results. Over time, he learned the importance of helping clients prioritise their needs and shape roles that translate into real, hireable people rather than impossible profiles.
Help people spot their own talent
Developing talent starts with helping people recognise their own strengths. With encouragement and opportunities to grow, individuals can thrive in roles that match their potential. This is especially important for women, who may undervalue themselves. Leaders can make the difference by advocating for people, creating opportunities, and building confidence.
5 Ways to Attract and Retain Diverse Talent in Tech Roles
This CTO Craft Bytes session examined the challenges of attracting and retaining diverse talent in technology. The session highlighted the importance of visible role models, inclusive job adverts, and planning for diversity early in a company’s growth. Lasting retention comes from embedding inclusion in culture and leadership opportunities, not treating it as a box ticking exercise.
Want More on Talent and Hiring? It’s All in Campus
These clips are just the beginning. Inside CTO Craft Campus, you’ll find the full library of leadership content, from deep dives on building and retaining high-performing teams to past conference talks, coaching insights, and more.
Whether you are refining your hiring process or developing the talent you already have, Campus gives you the tools to find the right people, help them thrive, and keep your team moving forward.
Coming Up – Deep Dives: Emotional Intelligence for CTOs.
On 14th October 2025, CTO Craft will host the next Deep Dives: Emotional Intelligence for CTOs. This high-impact session will explore one of the most essential but often overlooked leadership skills: Emotional Intelligence.
You can also watch a highlight from our previous Deep Dives session, where Dan Smith discussed Mastering the Role of a Strategic CTO.
The October event is free to attend, with replays available exclusively to CTO Craft Campus members. Register now to secure your place, and join Campus for full access to every Deep Dives session and much more
