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Helen Sanders

Helen Sanders

Founder & CEO; Chemistry‑First hiring for bootstrapped startups

helenjsanders
Bristol, United Kingdom
Joined January 2026
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Summary

Built HFBAC around a "Chemistry First" hiring methodology that prioritises team fit and working-style alignment over credentials, especially for bootstrapped and founder‑led companies. hfbac+1
Experienced recruiter, trainer and fractional talent leader who runs workshops and delivery programmes for founders and small businesses (BIPC, Virgin StartUp) to improve hiring capability and processes. hfbac+2
Brings a storytelling and team‑dynamics perspective from an earlier career in broadcasting (BBC sports commentary), using pattern recognition about team chemistry to inform hiring practices. hfbac
Works across mission-driven and technical organisations, advising employee-owned and sustainability-focused businesses on progressive HR and hiring (example: Kinectid) and partnering with robotics/tech firms as a recruitment partner. kinectid+2
Public speaker and media contributor on hiring topics for MSPs and tech businesses; appears on podcasts and recorded interviews to share practical hiring and onboarding advice. libsyn+1

Work

Education

Projects

Writing

HFBAC FAQ — Chemistry First Hiring & Fractional Talent Partner Questions Answered

November 1, 2025

Comprehensive FAQ outlining HFBAC's approach to hiring for bootstrapped teams, flat-fee pricing, the Chemistry First methodology, and service packages (project-based hiring and starter retainer).

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Co-Founder Platforms vs. Recruiters vs. DIY: What Works?

October 1, 2025

A long-form blog post comparing free co‑founder matching platforms, traditional recruiters, and DIY networking; provides guidance on when each approach works and when not to use it, based on experience placing 400+ people.

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