In the Media
Why the CFO mindset can clash with CEO demands
Ben Stickney is an executive search partner with a 20-year track record of building high-impact leadership teams and deep experience supporting venture-backed and private high-growth tech companies. He is also a seasoned leader with substantial operations experience, which he draws on to help clients scale with discipline, strengthen GTM execution, and develop leadership capabilities that endure.
Professional Focus
- C-level and VP searches across GTM, operations, and corporate functions, including CEO, COO, CFO, CRO, CMO, and Heads of Marketing, Operations, Sales, and Customer Success
- Deep focus on investor-backed growth companies, from Series A startups to private equity-backed platforms and multi-billion-dollar category leaders
- Defense tech and national security expert, with domain experience across deep tech, AI/ML platforms, enterprise SaaS, fintech, health tech, and cybersecurity, as well as broader digital and technology-enabled services
- Experienced executive coach and leadership advisor to founders, CEOs, and senior operators navigating rapid growth, organizational change, and culture-building
- Active in veteran advocacy and mentorship, helping military leaders transition into executive roles in venture-backed and high-growth companies
Business Expertise
- Partner in a boutique Silicon Valley executive search firm advising venture-backed and growth-stage clients on senior leadership hiring across enterprise and consumer markets.
- Executive operations leader at public, private equity, and venture-backed brands, including Amazon and The Honest Company, with accountability for teams of more than 2,000 people, complex national distribution networks, and significant P&L and supply chain oversight.
- Decorated U.S. Navy fighter pilot serving in front-line fighter squadrons and leading complex, multinational operations around the world, flying over 100 combat missions. As a reservist, he supported US Embassies in Europe and served with SEAL Team 17.
Additional Expertise
- Defense & National Security
- Private Equity & Venture Capital
- Technology
- AI, Cloud, & Software
- Industrial
- Supply Chain & Logistics
- Consumer & Retail
Areas of Expertise
Education & Certifications
- MBA from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)
- Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in aerospace engineering from the United States Naval Academy
- Certified leadership and training facilitator, The Arbinger Institute
Affiliations & Awards
- Member of Rotary International
Case Studies
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The Transformation of Atlas-SSI: Leading the Market in Specialty Equipment Manufacturing for Industrial and Municipal Water Applications
Private Equity investor hires a CEO to integrate acquisitions and build a growth platform in manufacturing specialty equipment for water infrastructure creating the largest manufacturer of traveling water screens and bulk material handling in North America
Identifying the Next Leader:
CEO Succession in the Industrial Services Sector
CEO Succession in the Industrial Services Sector
The successful identification and recruitment of a new CEO for an industrial services business in the Midwest was critical to ensuring a smooth transition as well as continued growth after the founder CEO’s retirement.
Product Management VP for an
Auto-tech that Belongs to a Private Equity
Auto-tech that Belongs to a Private Equity
In this project, Boyden completed a critical placement at the C-suite level with global responsibility for product management for vehicle lifecycle management.
Thought Leadership
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Articles & Papers
Navigating Uncertainty: AI Drives an Inflection Point for the Global Economy
In this edition of Navigating Uncertainty, explore how AI is reshaping the global economy, while private equity reveals the truth about AI ‘bubble mania’.
Articles & Papers
Private Equity's Role in Powering the Energy Transition
As energy markets transform, private equity is driving the transition with diversified portfolios and leaders who can master both legacy and renewable systems.
Articles & Papers
Boyden in Malta: Momentum in the Mediterranean
A look at Malta’s most vibrant industries and economic successes with insights from local Partner Dr. Vassilis Trochalidis of Boyden Greece, Cyprus and Malta.
Blog
Navigating the Executive Talent Paradox: Strategies for Differentiation
Explore the challenges and opportunities organizations face in aligning talent with strategic objectives to drive growth and success
Media
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News & Events
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In the Media
Layoff announcements are reading more like AI-era manifestos
A Business Insider piece explores how layoff announcements are evolving into AI‑era strategy statements, highlighting Boyden Partner Rick Wargo’s insights on why companies now emphasize shifting skill needs and long‑term transformation over cost‑cutting.
In the Media
In major shift, more family offices are shifting to fractional hiring, modular staffing
Family offices are shifting toward fractional hiring, modular staffing, and specialized advisory roles as they navigate rising costs, next‑gen transitions, and new technological demands. This article explores the evolving talent landscape — including insights from Boyden Partner Bill Flannery on the growing importance of centralized digital coordination within family offices.
Contact Ben Stickney today and let's get started