We partnered with HPO Technologies, a UK-based SME delivering health defence software solutions, in 2025. Our product recruiters were engaged to support their first Head of Product hire.
A complex challenge for a small business of just eight full-time employees, the hiring team made full use of our specialist services. Our expert consultants were able to guide them on which hires and candidtaes would best solve their challenges.
Established in 2020, HPO Technologies is a UK-based SME, dedicated to developing and delivering bespoke software solutions that enable critical organisations to manage and optimise the health, wellbeing and performance of its people.
In 2025, the organisation recognised the need to engage a senior technical leader, but were unsure which role, skill set or level would best solve their challenges. That’s where our specialist product recruiters came in.
The business was at a pivotal stage of growth. They were preparing for expansion into the US and new sectors, so required someone who could own the entire product direction, working closely with the MD and the Chairman of their investors, NM Capital.
The challenge was multifaceted:
The first step in the recruitment process was clarity. Using our ‘Advisory’ services, we supported the business in defining exactly what problem the hire needed to solve.
Specialist product recruiter, Francesca Jackson-Burnham, took a hands-on, strategic approach, beginning with an in-person discovery session. Francesca met the MD and the wider team, reviewed the product roadmap, and brainstormed potential role structures.
From this session, it became clear the business needed to engage a Head of Product.
We delivered a full end-to-end solution:
This advisory-first approach gave the client complete clarity on the talent landscape before approaching talent.
HPO Technologies successfully hired a Head of Product — a transformative appointment for the brand as they scale their product portfolio and expand into new markets.
This has been described internally as a huge hire for the business and a foundational step in their growth journey.
Working with Chess and 3Search was a genuinely collaborative and consultative experience. When we first engaged, we were still considering the profile options for this role. Chess took the time to understand our business, vision, and team structure, and then helped us refine the exact role requirements. Despite the confidential nature of our search, Chess found the right person. We’d absolutely recommend working with Chess and 3Search for any key Product hire.Ivan Rowlatt Managing Director
Candidate Thought Count: 1
Francesca is a great recruiter. She approached me about a Product Management leadership role and was excellent from the initial contact. Her targeting of who to approach for this role was spot-on (practically laser-guided). Her briefing was concise but comprehensive. Her support throughout the process was incredibly valuable — she constructively challenged my thinking based on her knowledge of the hiring company and her own experience. Francesca is now firmly on my list of ‘trusted advisers’, and I’d thoroughly recommend her to both hiring managers and people exploring a career move.Head of Product
