Trailblazers Judges

Meet Chris, Founder of That Recruitment Company. From day one of launching his business, he has been responsible for finding some of the tech industry's most elusive talents. With a focus on organisations in Amsterdam, he has some serious experience sourcing candidates for ground-breaking tech projects.

But it's not just about filling job vacancies for Chris - it's about being part of something bigger. His passion for people and his synergy with tech has provoked a desire to challenge the status quo and launch Trailblazers, an initiative to shine a light on the unsung heroes in the industry.

Sure, we often hear about the big brands and their superstar employees, but Chris believes in acknowledging the individuals on their way to becoming the next big thing.

So, what constitutes being the next tech prodigy? As a veteran of spotting talent, Chris is looking for the total package. For him, this year's Trailblazer needs to exude a positive vibe, get a kick out of what they do, and, most importantly, stay ahead of the game - with tech advancing at lightning speed; it's their responsibility to keep up.

Judge's Insight

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the tech market today?

The tech industry is heavy with worry due to mass layoffs hitting tech giants like Facebook and Amazon. However, amidst this shake-up, a silver lining emerges for start-ups and SMEs; a more level playing field.

Gone are the days when having billions in funding guarantees success. Now, it's all about cultivating a superb product, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and capturing the right market.

Chris believes that we are about to witness a shift towards greater parity, where dominance won't be dictated solely by cash but by the innovation and quality of the products that smaller firms bring to the table. In other words, it's time for the underdogs to shine.