Meeting candidates is a real source of inspiration! The highlight of my day is that one conversation which keeps me buzzing for hours because of how interesting it was. Speaking to people allows me to learn so much about the industry, but also about the human nature and the interplay between the professional & personal.
Career development
I joined as a Junior Researcher straight after graduating, and have grown through the levels with the support of the entire team. It was all completely organic and merit-based – the focus has always been on demonstrating the right behaviours and values.
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Drive to ImproveEvery day is an opportunity to empower someone to be the best version of themselves, to support someone in building out their “dream team”, and most importantly, for yourself to be better than you were yesterday.
KEA
What does it take to be successful in your role?
EK
Being successful as a headhunter in VC is in many ways similar to being a successful early-stage investor. You just need to know how to tune in. How to interpret signals, rely on your intuition in different interactions, uncover potential and believe in people to help pave the path from idea to success.
KEA
What made you join Kea?
EK
Very few people at Kea wanted to be headhunters, but those who stayed on did so because they genuinely enjoyed the nature of the job. This was evident in every one of my interviews and inspired me to join the team. It’s still true – I constantly feel inspired by my colleagues who come to work energized and full of ideas for our projects.
KEA
What is your biggest professional regret?
EK
Not getting into the habit of being out in the market and spending at least half of my time meeting people in person. It makes all the difference!
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I define my success with that of others.I have a deep respect for the people who have set out to find the next challenge in their lives and I find it incredibly rewarding to know I’ve been able to guide and support them along the process. It’s so much more than a job for me. It’s about people’s superpowers and vulnerability, their ambitions and commitment to driving a change.