About Chris Tillman

I’m Chris Tillman, founder of Terrace Vanguard. I partner with founders and HR leaders who need to hire Director to C-level leaders and critical individual contributors, especially when the role is high-impact, confidential, or tough to fill through inbound applicants.

My job is to run a clear, structured process that gets you to the right hire without wasted cycles, uncertainty, or “spray and pray” recruiting.

How I Work

• I start by understanding the role, your stage, and what success actually looks like.

• I build a targeted search plan and go directly to the talent you want, not just whoever applies.

• I keep a weekly cadence with pipeline updates and real market feedback so we can adjust fast if needed.

• I help you evaluate candidates clearly and close strong through offer and onboarding support.

My Background

I've spent over 15 years in recruiting and executive search. Before starting Terrace Vanguard, I was a Vice President of Talent Acquisition and Recruiting Operations at an executive search firm, where I ran searches, built out recruiting processes, and managed the team doing the work day to day. I'm also a proud Hampton University graduate.

Today, I work directly with clients as the principal consultant. That means you’re not handed off to a team. You get my time, my judgment, and a consistent process from intake to close.

Most of my work is with startups, growth-stage, and mid-market teams, often in Life Sciences (Biotech & Pharmaceutical), Healthcare, Tech, SaaS, and professional services. If you’re outside those categories, that’s fine. The role and the hiring situation matter more than the label. I’ve also worked across plenty of other industries. The industry changes, but the fundamentals don’t: clarity on the role, direct outreach, and consistent communication.