Sarah Benson
Head of Executive Talent & Strategic Delivery @Gibson Watts
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WORK HISTORY
Head of Executive Talent & Strategic Delivery @Gibson Watts
I lead retained executive searches for climate tech, deep tech, and sustainability-focused organisations, with a core focus on founder-led startups and scaling ventures across the UK, Europe, and North America.My role combines strategic partnership with search execution — turning ambiguity into action, translating business intent into compelling briefs, and delivering credible leadership hires at pace.Key responsibilities & most recent achievements:Led senior-level searches for critical roles including:– COO (climate tech, USA)– VP Global Supply Chain (Renewables, EU)– VP Global Operations (Global Machinery Manufacturing, US/Northern Europe)– Commercial Director (biotech, Northern Europe)– Go-to-Market Executive Consultants (agri-tech, global remit)Partnered directly with founders and CEOs to scope, challenge, and refine leadership hiring needsDelivered end-to-end: market mapping, strategic outreach, stakeholder engagement, candidate evaluation, and offer negotiationNavigated complex, multi-stakeholder searches where role definitions were evolvingBuilt lasting relationships with candidates and clients, often retained as a thought partner beyond placementContributed to broader business success through pitch support, insights, and sector-specific search strategySectors served: Climate tech, deep tech, agri/biotech, life sciences, circular economy, and future mobility.
EDUCATION
Oxford Brookes University
BSc Hons, Biology and Business
ABOUT SARAH BENSON
Who I Help I support founders, CEOs, and growing organisations in climate tech, deep tech, and purpose-led sectors to define, attract, and hire exceptional leadership talent, often in complex, evolving environments. How I Help Whether the brief is clear or still forming, I bring pace, depth, and structure to executive hiring. I turn ambiguity into action, drawing on almost two decades of experience leading high-impact searches across the UK, Europe, North America, APAC and Africa. I’ve supported businesses at every stage, from VC-backed startups to listed corporates - helping them build the right leadership foundations for scale. Where I Excel Translating complexity into clear hiring strategies Managing multiple senior stakeholders with integrity and calm Getting to the core of what motivates people, and where they’ll succeed Delivering fast, thoughtful, and trusted search execution Holding the room with C-levels while staying grounded in delivery I’m known for my curiosity, honesty, and human-centred approach. I partner best with businesses who care deeply about who they hire, not just how fast. Contact: s••••••••@gibsonwatts.com
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