Strategic advisory & retainer
An ongoing sounding board for founders and CEOs: strategy, positioning, the commercial model, partnerships, and the fundraising narrative, on call as the company moves.
Services
How Crucible works.
One relationship, scoped to the moment that matters. Most engagements combine a few of the areas below, and every one is led personally by Tom.
The principles
A few things that stay constant.
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Senior, and in the room
You work directly with Tom, not a team you never met. The judgment you are buying is the judgment you get.
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Integrated, not siloed
Science, engineering, commercial, and governance treated as one problem, because in a deep-tech company they are.
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A small book, by design
Crucible takes on a limited number of clients, so each gets real attention and genuine independence.
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Scoped to the moment
Advisory, a defined project, a board seat, or a sprint: the format follows the need, not a template.
The engagements
Ways to work together.
Not a rigid menu. A starting point for a conversation about what would be most useful.
Scale-up & fractional executive
Hands-on help through the scale-up: operating cadence, team and culture, and senior capacity in a part-time or interim role where it is needed.
Board & advisory roles
Non-executive and advisory positions, board effectiveness through growth and pressure, and preparation for the conversations that decide the next round.
Technical & commercial due diligence
Independent assessment of deep-technology companies and platforms for investors and partners, across both the science and the business.
Transactions & new models
Designing and standing up new operating and funding structures: CRO, PRO, and FRO models, consortia, and public-private-philanthropic funding.
Defined projects & sprints
A bounded piece of work with a clear deliverable: a strategy, a model, a positioning, or a decision, delivered to a deadline.
Areas of focus
Where the depth is.
How to start
Four steps, no pressure.
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Introductory call
A short conversation, at no charge, to understand your situation and what you need.
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Scoping
We agree what would be most useful, the shape of the work, and how we would know it is working.
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Proposal
A clear written proposal: scope, format, and terms, with no obligation.
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Engagement
We begin, and you have Tom's direct attention throughout.
Fees depend on scope and format and are agreed up front. Ask, and Tom will be straightforward about it.
Tell Tom what you are working on.
The first call is the easiest way to find out whether Crucible can help.