Transforming Startup Recruitment: Key Takeaways from Pulley, 645 Ventures, and Epigram Legal at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025
The initial hires can significantly influence the success of startups. In a highly competitive environment where elite talent has numerous choices — including stock options — it’s crucial to offer more than just a ping-pong table and an attractive pitch deck to draw in the right candidates.
At the 20th anniversary of TechCrunch Disrupt, happening from October 27-29 at Moscone West, San Francisco, we will explore imperative discussions about compensation and equity with an expert panel experienced in scaling businesses.
Don’t miss the invaluable insights from this panel, along with the extensive Disrupt 2025 agenda featuring tech and scaling experts who are driving critical conversations. Register here to take advantage of savings up to $675.
Who’s taking the Builder’s stage
Randi Jakubowitz, Head of Operations and Talent at 645 Ventures, is well-versed in the complexities of expanding teams internally. Before supporting portfolio companies, she was among the key HR hires at Seamless, guiding the company during its merger with Grubhub and its subsequent IPO. She has a profound understanding of the human aspects of business.
Joining her is Rebecca Lee Whiting, founder of Epigram Legal and fractional general counsel for numerous innovative AI and biotech startups. She is recognized for demystifying intricate legal issues, providing advice on everything from equity structuring to employee retention strategies. Additionally, she clerked for the Ninth Circuit, highlighting her extensive legal proficiency.
Also on the panel is Yin Wu, the founder and CEO of Pulley, a YC-backed equity management platform that helps over 5,000 companies effectively manage their cap tables. Prior to starting Pulley, she founded and sold Echo to Microsoft, boasting a strong track record of launching startups. Yin excels at offering attractive equity packages and conveying their value to employees.
Why you should participate in this session
This session will provide clarity on the pressing questions every founder faces: What compensation should you provide for early employees? How can you compete with Big Tech without draining your resources? And how do you create equity structures that promote long-term engagement? Don’t let this opportunity slip away. The event is set for October 27–29 at Moscone West, as part of TechCrunch Disrupt’s 20th anniversary celebration. Specific session times will be announced soon, so ensure you’re there — register now and take advantage of the opportunity to save up to $675 before ticket prices rise.
