Overview
Thomas Shields is the founder and executive recruiter at Shields Group Search, based in New York City [1][3]. Shields has focused on executive search within venture capital and private equity contexts, including structuring executive teams for VC and PE-backed portfolio companies and hiring founders at the inception stage for a VC studio [2]. Prior experience includes roles as an executive recruiter at AlpineX Group and Cold Start [9][10]. Shields holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and History from Union College [11]. Current advisory and investment positions include roles at Elpis Labs and Ethpar, along with previous advisory work at Starta VC and OneApply [4][5][6][7].
Profile introduction
Based in NYC, Thomas has carved a niche in the executive search domain. As a seasoned recruiter, his efforts have predominantly focused on structuring the executive teams of emerging VC and PE-backed portfolio companies. Before founding Shields Group Search, Thomas hired the founders of companies for a VC studio at the inception stage. He also worked in private equity recruiting, helping to bolster growing operating companies with senior, commercially focused leadership. On the side, Thomas acts as both an investor and advisor for early-stage companies. He offers personal insights into buildin…
Career history
- Founder | Executive Recruiter2023 to presentShields Group Search
- Advisor & Start Up Coach2025 to presentElpis Labs
- Angel Investor & Advisor2025 to presentEthpar
- AdvisorSep 2023 to 2025Starta VC
- AdvisorAug 2023 to 2025OneApply
- Angel Investor2022 to 2025Revolancer
- Executive RecruiterFeb 2023 to Sep 2023AlpineX Group
- Executive RecruiterMar 2022 to Feb 2023Cold Start
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree, Political Science and HistoryUnion College
- High School at Strath Haven High School
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