Interest from U.S. and global buyers surged, but as a founder, steering an international sale process was daunting.
In 2017, three of us—Vincent Lebunetel, Catalin Ciobanu, and Gregoire Boutin—launched Boostrs in Paris with a conviction that HR needed a future-proof, skills-centric approach. We created an API-first skills mapping platform purpose-built to solve three pressing talent challenges:
We didn’t set out just to build a database, but to craft an engine connecting fragmented workforce data, operational tools, and strategic ambition. By 2022, Boostrs stood out as a European leader in skills mapping, enabling organizations to analyze, mobilize, and future-proof employee capabilities through integrating AI-driven data with their HCM systems.
We began by supporting progressive organizations that saw skills as the real currency of value creation. Over five years, through relentless iteration and client feedback, Boostrs evolved into a platform that powered workforce upskilling, internal mobility, and strategic planning for mid-sized businesses and global enterprises alike. Our engine mapped not just current skills, but future roles—helping firms bridge the gap between what they had and what they’d need.
We built a nimble team of engineers, data scientists, and industry specialists in Paris, all committed to advancing the science of workforce intelligence. In a crowded market, our ability to consolidate and analyze disparate HR data—and translate it into clear, actionable skill insights—became our signature differentiation.
The market for HR tech was shifting. Interest from U.S. and global buyers surged, but as a founder, steering an international sale process was daunting. We knew we needed a partner who not only understood deal mechanics, but could tell our unique story, position Boostrs for maximum value, and—most critically—protect our team, brand, and vision through the transition.
We appointed Venero Capital Advisors as our exclusive financial advisor because they provided exactly what founders in our position need:
Venero has been our trusted partner from the start. The team went above and beyond to help us navigate a challenging market and deliver a great result for our employees and shareholders.
When Visier—the global people analytics leader—expressed interest, it was obvious why Venero’s network and process mattered. Visier sought more than just a product; they wanted to integrate our skills engine and team as a new center of excellence in Paris. Their technology stack, customer base of 25,000, and global vision gave Boostrs a launchpad that dwarfed what we could achieve independently.
After weeks of coordinated due diligence, planning, and alignment on priorities—facilitated every step of the way by Venero—we closed the transaction in October 2022. Visier brought on the majority of our team and committed to expanding our Paris office as a European hub.
With our Boostrs chapter as an independent company closed, we’re glad we wrote its ending (and new beginning) on our own terms, with the right partner, at the right time.
Venero helped us evolve a successful partnership into a landmark acquisition.
From local hero to Asia Pac leader: Venero helped build the bridge to our future.
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