If you're the CEO of a fast-growing startup, the mistake you'll make in the next year that you'll regret most will probably be a hiring mistake. Possibly hiring someone established, which you'll feel you should do now you're getting big, and which VCs will strongly encourage.
High EQ + Persuasion. People who have a clear-headed view of a situation, and the soft skills/influence chops to bend the environment to their will, are especially valuable. It’s an underrated skill.
Much of Silicon Valley is the reshuffling of uninspired, unremarkable individuals with one Great Brand on their resume, being recycled through tens of other Aspiring Great Brands.
Do not outsource your talent evaluation to Brand identification, otherwise your company will suck.