Smart People Should Build Things - On Recruiting and the Global Competition for Top Talent

The very nature of a high-growth startup means that the company is always growing and hiring at a rapid rate. And for African startups, in particular, the talent question is even more acute, given the general challenges of sourcing for select roles, as well as the difficulty in competing for talent with other startups, multinationals, and companies elsewhere in the world. In this episode, we unpack the talent and recruiting situation for venture-backed startups and growth-stage companies - how do we source for newer types of roles, like product and growth? Do we hire for aptitude and train up? Do we go to where there is more talent? How does remote work - particularly during COVID-19 - play a role here?

2:50 - We discuss the current recruiting landscape with Toun Tunde-Anjous, Founder of The People Practice.
4:38 - Charles Sekwalor, CEO of Movemeback, shares his views on the talent question, and the opportunities with startups and growth-stage companies on the continent.
8:17 - We explore startup recruitment strategy with Ijeoma Oyeyinka, Helium Health's Head of HR.
10:26 - Many startups, including Helium Health, use outside recruiters, as well. Toun's The People Practice is one such firm.
11:20 - We har from Ijeoma & Mansi Babyloni, Flutterwave's Global Head of People Strategy on the hiring competition, and the pitches they make to mission-driven talent.
15:12 - Mansi & Toun on compensation and their experiences with African startups offering equity packages.
17:59 - On remote working dynamics and the opportunity to tap into a wider talent pool, particularly due to COVID-19.
20:46 - A discussion on training & development of talent, and in particular less experienced talent, on the continent.
24:23 - We hear from Aaron Fu, on the Venture for Africa fellowship program, and their endeavor to de-risk an exploration into the African tech and startup ecosystem.
28:13 - As always, a reflective conversation between Justin Norman and Sayo Folawiyo on this episode's topic.