For nearly two decades, Joe has helped high-growth startups across Europe find the leaders they need to scale with confidence. Now at Lightspeed, he brings that experience to bear by supporting founders as they build the executive teams and boards that will guide them through their next chapters.

In his role, Joe helps Lightspeed’s European portfolio navigate the challenges of leadership hiring while also growing a network of top-tier executive and advisory talent across the continent.

Before joining Lightspeed, Joe spent 17 years as an executive recruiter, including 12.5 years as part of the leadership team at Erevena, a top-tier global search firm. There, he worked with VC-backed tech companies and investors to attract transformational talent.

His move into venture capital was a natural next step. “I’ve worked hand-in-hand with VC-backed companies for years,” says Joe. “Working closely with exceptional founders was always the most fulfilling part of my job. Now I get to focus on that every day, with the added benefit of working across one of the most exciting portfolios in Europe.”

Joe met Lightspeed’s Executive Talent team just as the firm was expanding in Europe. Having previously partnered with several Lightspeed-backed companies, the connection was already there. “It was a very natural fit from the get-go,” he says.

Joe’s approach is grounded in a belief that talent is the single biggest unlock for scale. “The difference between good and great companies,” he says, “often comes down to how well a company approaches hiring. Our job is to help founders access aspirational leaders who can genuinely change the trajectory of their business.”

Raised in a large, close-knit family with four siblings, Joe credits his parents with instilling the values that shape his approach to work. “My dad’s tireless work ethic and my mum’s emotional intelligence created a home where we learned the value of partnership from an early age.”

Today, Joe finds joy and balance in family life with his wife and two young children. He’s a lifelong sports fan and draws energy from the football pitch, the ski slopes, or simply around the BBQ at home. “I’ve always believed in the power of team,” he says. “And I feel lucky to work with one of the very best, across Europe and the globe.”