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Looking to Lead a PE-Backed SaaS Company? 3 Things Top Candidates Get Right

by Ross Kinnaird, Director at Bespoke Partners

August 21, 2025,,,

3 Things Top Candidates Get Right

If you're a B2B software executive aiming to land a senior role in a private equity backed company, you’re already operating at a high level.

But even among elite talent, some candidates consistently rise above the rest.
And from my seat—advising CEOs, Boards, and investors—there are a few simple best practices I’ve seen make all the difference.

Here’s what I recommend if you want to stand out in a highly competitive talent market.

#1 Get Ahead of References

Myth:

References only come into play after the offer is extended.

Reality:

Increasingly, CEOs and Board members are asking for references earlier in the process—sometimes before final interviews—to validate a candidate’s operating style and experience.

Top-tier execs know the value of strong, credible references and have often secured those well in advance.

Here’s how to do it right:

  • Prioritize CEOs and board members you’ve worked with directly.
  • Choose senior references who’ve seen you navigate the kinds of challenges you’ll face in the new role.
  • Ask yourself, “If I were hiring for this role, whose input would I trust?” Then aim for those high-impact names.

If you’re working with a recruiter, ask for their input. A thoughtful reference list signals preparedness, credibility, and self-awareness—qualities every Board wants in a leader.

#2 Translate Labels into Impact

We hear terms like “transformative leader,” “change agent,” and “operational executive” constantly. They’re not bad descriptors—but on their own, they’ve lost power.

What sets you apart is how you define them.

Don’t just say, “I’m a change agent.” Instead:

“I’m a change agent who helps software companies reignite growth by overhauling GTM strategy and repositioning the product to expand into new market segments. At my last company, this resulted in 36% YoY ARR growth.”

 

That’s the difference between telling and showing.

The Bottom Line

If you're a B2B software executive looking to break into or move up within PE-backed companies, remember:

  • Have your references lined up early
  • Translate buzzwords into concrete business impact
  • Don’t just say what you’ve done—showit

These simple, powerful moves can elevate your profile from strong to standout. In today’s competitive market, that’s the edge you need.

To learn more about how we can help you elevate your executive team, contact Bespoke Partners.

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Authored by:

  • Director

    Ross Kinnaird is a Director for Bespoke Partners. Before joining Bespoke, Ross was an Associate Brand Manager for the Dr. Pepper brand at Keurig Dr. Pepper. Before KDP, Ross spent time at 7-Eleven, Inc. as an analytical resource working on the frontlines of the company’s digital transformation efforts. Prior to 7-Eleven, Inc., Ross graduated from the full-time MBA program at SMU Cox in Dallas, with concentrations in Marketing and Strategy.

    Before obtaining his MBA, Ross spent time in sales at a B2B social media SaaS company in Austin, called Spredfast (now known as Khoros). Prior, Ross worked at GLG in Austin, TX for 5 years where he recruited experts and business executives for private equity firm clients. During the last ~2 years of Ross’s tenure at GLG, he recruited for the firm’s start-up placements practice, helping place executives for private equity-backed portfolio companies.

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