Ask James Caan... Business tips for London entrepreneurs

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I am looking to recruit a chief technical officer. We started trading in 2010 and we have built our own systems, but I worry they will not scale. I need a CTO who has delivered an appropriate platform and is also knowledgeable of best-in-class process and solutions.
John Maynard, CFO, achica.com

James says:
"You're clearly at a critical point for the business, and require the right individual. When I've been looking for someone in a key position, I've looked for a person with a track record of achieving the objectives I have for my business.

That will be very important for you. Due to the changing dynamic of technology, having someone who understands that too will be key.

You can look at specialised job boards and publications, but my instinct would be that you need to identify a recruitment consultancy that works in your space. Ask yourself where you want your company to be in three years' time. Then go for someone who is comfortable dealing with that kind of scale.

I've used two consultancies, Exsurgo and Timothy James Consultancy. To attract the right individual, I would think you need to offer a package of between £90,000 and £120,000.

*If you have any burning issues that you would like advice on please write to askjames@standard.co.uk
*James Caan's new book Start Your Business in 7 Days is published March 1 and his free app, James Caan Business Secrets, is available on iphone and Android.