Retained executive search for venture- and growth-backed
technology companies. Based in Austin.
I run a small number of CEO and C-level searches at a time, mostly for companies based in or hiring into Texas. I do the work myself — the research, the outreach, the candidate conversations. I take on engagements when I'm confident I can do them justice, and I'm honest when I can't.
In their words
"One of the things I like about Scott is he's very smart. In a world where this space can feel commoditized, one differentiator is intellectual horsepower — someone who can understand the client's business quickly and actually contribute to changing the thinking about what role is required."
"Being a real thought partner along the way is critical. Scott asks 'Are we sure about that? Are we sure that's the right profile? Are we sure we don't want to stretch on compensation?' That level of pushback, combined with his experience, means you're not just getting a recruiter — you're getting an advisor. The fact that it's a smaller firm actually allows him to do this better."
"I've been at Mercury almost 8 years now and in that time frame I've used Whiterock half a dozen times, and I can't recall ever having a bad experience."
"If he called me and asked me about somebody, I would absolutely give him exactly what it is — things I'd never share with a recruiter I didn't know and trust. People don't have the local network and the trust-based relationships where others are going to feel comfortable saying that. That's the biggest differentiator."
I run four or fewer engagements at a time. When I'm full, I'll tell you. I take on searches I'm confident I can execute well — which means I turn down a fair amount of work. The clients I do take on get my full attention.
Twenty-plus years building the Austin tech executive network. I know who's performed, who's available, and who's a fit before the first call. National reach when the search requires it — but unmatched if Austin is the answer.
I do the work myself. The research, the sourcing, the candidate conversations, the client updates — all of it. There's no junior team running point and handing off to me at the end. If you hire Whiterock, you get Scott.
Recent engagements include CEO searches for TeleVet, Datical, Hart InterCivic, Novi Labs, Hangar, Graylog, and PeopleAdmin; CFO searches for Actian, Compeat, and Hart InterCivic; and CMO, CTO, and CRO searches for portfolio companies of Mercury Fund, Silverton Partners, Sixth Street, and others.
Every engagement begins with a period of deep immersion — understanding the company, the board's expectations, and what a successful hire actually looks like in twelve months. From there, the work is methodical: thorough market mapping, direct outreach to candidates who aren't looking, rigorous qualification, and candid feedback throughout. Most searches close in 90 to 120 days. Some take longer; I'll tell you early if that's where we're headed.
Read the full process overview →