100% of Shortlisted Candidates Interviewed by the Board, CEO Appointed in Just 8 Weeks
Aventus was retained by a UAE-based digital assets scale-up backed by a leading Sovereign Wealth Fund. Created to position the Emirates as a global centre for Web3, blockchain and digital innovation, the organisation required a high-impact CEO to lead strategy, scale international partnerships and build credibility with regulators.
The search demanded global reach, sector-specific expertise and delivery at pace. Aventus delivered - appointing a top-tier CEO within eight weeks, with 100% of shortlisted candidates progressing to board-level interviews.
The Challenge:
Our client was tasked with accelerating the UAE’s digital economy through a newly created innovation platform. A CEO was needed to drive execution while balancing innovation, regulatory engagement and commercial leadership.
- A new CEO role with no precedent, requiring both vision and operational control
- Global talent scarcity in blockchain and Web3 leadership
- A rare combination of regulatory fluency, investor credibility and market scaling experience was essential
The Solution:
Aventus deployed a global executive search strategy focused on securing exceptional leadership from high-growth technology and digital asset environments.
- Mapped and approached senior executives across Europe, North America and Asia
- Targeted individuals with experience in scaling blockchain ventures and navigating complex regulatory landscapes
- Provided detailed compensation benchmarking and relocation insight to inform both the hire and broader talent strategy
- Partnered closely with board stakeholders to define success criteria and ensure cultural and strategic alignment
The Outcome and Impact:
Aventus delivered a highly targeted shortlist within two weeks, with 100% of candidates interviewed by the board. The CEO appointment was finalised in just eight weeks, exceeding expectations on both speed and quality.
- 100% of shortlisted candidates progressed to board-level interviews
- 2 weeks to shortlist, 8 weeks to appoint
- Appointed CEO brought deep experience in global blockchain leadership and regulatory engagement
- Enabled rapid transition from concept to execution, attracting high-value Web3 ventures to the UAE
- Solidified Aventus’ role as a long-term strategic talent partner across the client’s innovation portfolio