In the bustling world of tech start-ups, a peculiar pitch led to an unlikely partnership with former boxing champion David Haye.
The journey of Syft, an innovative recruitment app, highlights the unpredictable dynamics of securing investment, even under challenging circumstances.
Meeting the legendary David Haye posed a real challenge for Syft’s co-founder, Jack Beaman. The chosen location, a pub in Pimlico, was far from ideal. Amidst the buzzing atmosphere and constant interruptions, Beaman attempted to present Syft’s vision. Yet, the informal setting added a surreal charm to the encounter.
The pitch was frequently interrupted by fan requests for photos with the celebrity boxer, complicating Beaman’s efforts to maintain focus. Despite the poor conditions, Haye’s interest was piqued, and he decided to invest, demonstrating the app’s compelling promise.
Following Haye’s investment, Syft experienced rapid growth. The flexible staffing platform went on to secure £6.1 million in Series A funding from prominent investors like Creandum and Colle Capital. By directly connecting employers with qualified workers, Syft eliminates the middleman, claiming to reduce temp worker fees by 55%.
The platform has not only expanded its team from 30 to 60 employees but has also strategically positioned itself in key UK cities, including Manchester, Birmingham, and London.
Recruitment in hospitality and related sectors is becoming increasingly difficult due to changes in the economic landscape.
Brexit has intensified these challenges, making it harder for businesses to find reliable staff at short notice. Co-founder Jack Beaman emphasised the essential role Syft plays in addressing these shortages. By providing an accessible workforce, Syft acts as an extension of a company’s full-time team, easing staffing issues significantly.
Syft’s strategy involves leveraging technology to streamline recruitment processes, ensuring both workers and employers gain substantial benefits.
Securing talent like David Haye is not as daunting as it seems, according to Co-founder Novo Abakare. The relatable nature of Syft’s mission resonates with many, facilitating support from unexpected quarters. This idea is reinforced by their recent appointment of Tom Dignan as CTO, a seasoned Silicon Valley veteran whose expertise is set to drive Syft’s global ambitions.
Abakare asserted, “Even as a tech platform, our work is highly relatable, appealing to a broad spectrum of supporters.”
Looking forward, Syft has its eyes on expanding further, both geographically and in terms of its service offerings. By focusing on the current market needs, the start-up plans to build on its success and venture into new territories.
This ambition is supported by their innovative approach to recruitment, emphasising a user-friendly experience for both employers and potential employees.
Ultimately, what began as an awkward pitch in a crowded pub transformed into a significant investment opportunity for Syft. The unlikely environment did not deter the start-up from achieving its goals.
David Haye’s involvement is a testament to the innovation and drive behind Syft’s mission.
The story of Syft’s pitch to David Haye underlines the unpredictable nature of the start-up ecosystem. With innovation at its core, Syft continues to thrive, offering solutions that are both practical and visionary, ensuring its place as a leader in flexible recruitment.