Meet the runners

Reads the whole landscape and likes to think a few moves ahead, strong on the strategy and the commercial side of a deal. Off the clock, usually masterminding his next big thing.

Guards the things that make a company one of a kind: its IP and its data. Danced professionally before Mace, and brings the same discipline to her work. Off the clock she's a photographer chasing surfers on the water, flippers on.

A winner's mindset with an eye for detail: aims high and doesn't settle for less than the best. Quality is non-negotiable. His perfect day: a sunny one, a full-on sport activity, good company, and an apero with proper food to finish.

In it for the smart, ambitious people this job puts him around, all over the world. Gets through the all-nighters on Red Bull and the buzz of a deal that lands well for everyone. Plays any sport, the more competitive the better. Still not over not going pro in football.

The legal tech one, as at home in strategy as the long arm of the law. Answers fast, on whatever channel you're using, and gives you one clear line instead of the long memo. Sports, friends and family, ideally with a coffee in hand.

Got hooked on VC and M&A during his internship, where the real fun turned out to be the ambitious people it puts him around, from all over the world. Off the clock his running shoes come everywhere, always chasing the next summit. Never says no to a good dinner with friends.

Lives to take the pressure off a founder's shoulders and turn a mess of clauses into a clear way forward. Out of the office she's either mid-run or hunting down the city's best table. Bring her a cinnamon roll and you've made her day.

The negotiator, and the one who knows everyone worth knowing. Off the clock he's a self-described circus dad: mountain climbing, long-distance biking, a bit of Thai boxing, and always up for the next adventure.