Cookie3 – Recruitment of the Head of Artificial Intelligence for a Global Web3 Crypto Company

Ani Gasparyan

• DevsData LLC helped Cookie3 hire a Head of AI with deep expertise in both Web3 and artificial intelligence, within just two weeks.
• The recruitment process was especially challenging due to the client’s strict requirement for a candidate with no more than 5 years in the field, who was also based in Poland.

Introduction

Cookie3, a global leader in Web3 analytics, needed to hire a Head of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to lead the development of their pioneering MarketingFi and data AI protocol. The challenge was identifying a candidate with a rare combination of deep AI engineering expertise and practical blockchain experience, a talent profile that is especially difficult to find. Within just 2 weeks, DevsData LLC successfully placed a high-caliber professional with the ideal blend of technical skills and domain knowledge. This accelerated Cookie3’s AI roadmap and laid the foundation for a long-term partnership, resulting in a second strategic hire through DevsData LLC shortly afterward.

Client overview

Cookie3 is a recognized innovator in Web3, known globally for its advanced MarketingFi solutions and AI-powered data protocol. Renowned for its innovative analytics platform, often referred to as the “Google Analytics of Web3,” Cookie3 enables businesses to track on-chain and off-chain user behavior, optimize marketing campaigns, and drive growth in the decentralized landscape.

Its platform has processed over 600 million wallets and 9 billion transactions across 16 chains, underscoring its global reach. With over 390,000 Twitter followers, Cookie3 has earned strong community trust and engagement. The company partners with industry leaders such as Polkastarter, ChainGPT, and Animoca Brands, serving more than 170 clients worldwide. Its commitment to privacy-preserving analytics and performance-based rewards has solidified its reputation as a transformative innovator in Web3 marketing.

Challenge

Cookie3 approached DevsData LLC with an urgent need to recruit a Head of AI to spearhead their AI-driven analytics initiatives.

“The Web3 space is moving fast, where AI and blockchain converge in on-chain analytics, smart contract optimization, and predictive modeling within a highly volatile and competitive market.”

The client was looking for a unique candidate with:

• Proven experience in AI
• Hands-on expertise in Web3 technologies
• A startup mindset and adaptability
• No more than 5 years of experience (to align with seniority level and budget expectations)
• Location limited to Poland

At the beginning, the client wasn’t entirely sure what kind of person they needed. They initially rejected a highly experienced expert, not due to a lack of qualifications, but because his background was too academic and research-focused, while the role required someone with more hands-on experience in fast-paced product environments and practical problem-solving.

As the search progressed, the client refined their expectations, focusing more on practical experience, adaptability, and someone who could thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. Limiting the search to Poland added another layer of difficulty, given the highly competitive market for such niche talent. Once the expectations were clear, the hiring process proceeded quickly, resulting in a successful placement within just 2 weeks.

DevsData LLC’s approach

We knew that Web3 hiring demands speed, precision, and deep domain knowledge. Cookie3 was seeking a unique profile with advanced AI expertise, strong Web3 experience, and the ability to drive innovation in a complex and fast-changing environment. To meet these high expectations, we designed a multi-stage recruitment strategy focused on precision, agility, and our deep understanding of the Web3 and crypto talent landscape. Below are the key stages of our process:

Stage 1: Research and talent mapping

We began by conducting in-depth research into Poland’s talent market, focusing on professionals with the rare combination of AI proficiency and Web3 expertise. Leveraging our proprietary database of over 65,000 vetted professionals and advanced market intelligence tools, we mapped out senior candidates with proven leadership in AI-driven product development and hands-on experience in blockchain-based systems. We analyzed industry trends, Web3-specific skill sets, and Cookie3’s strategic goals to ensure alignment. This stage included identifying potential talent pools within Poland’s tech hubs, such as Warsaw and Kraków, and cross-referencing with professionals active in Web3 communities and blockchain projects.

Stage 2: Stakeholder alignment and profile refinement

We worked closely with Cookie3’s leadership team, including the CTO, holding daily syncs to refine the applicant profile based on evolving requirements. Initially, Cookie3 rejected a senior candidate, signaling their preference for a younger, less tenured professional with a fresh perspective.

“We adjusted our criteria to prioritize professionals with a maximum of 5 years of experience, ensuring they possessed both technical depth in AI and practical Web3 knowledge.”

This iterative process allowed us to align closely with Cookie3’s vision, guaranteeing that we targeted individuals who could lead innovation without the rigidity of overly senior profiles.

Stage 3: Targeted sourcing and outreach

With a refined profile in hand, we launched a hyper-focused sourcing campaign that used personalized outreach to engage both passive and active candidates. Our team utilized LinkedIn, niche Web3 job boards, and Poland-based tech networks to identify high-potential talent. We focused on talent with experience in AI-driven analytics and Web3 technologies, such as blockchain analytics or decentralized systems. To support cultural and strategic fit, we incorporated behavioral assessments to evaluate candidates’ adaptability and alignment with the fast-paced Web3 environment.

Stage 4: Screening and shortlisting

Within an intensive 2-week window, we screened candidates using a rigorous combination of technical and behavioral evaluations. Technical assessments focused on AI expertise (e.g., machine learning, data analytics) and Web3 proficiency (e.g., familiarity with on-chain data and smart contracts). Behavioral interviews checked their ability to thrive in a volatile, high-pressure industry. We shortlisted a select group of top-tier talent, ensuring each aligned with Cookie3’s vision of blending AI innovation with Web3 fluency. The candidate we presented stood out immediately with a strong blend of AI skills, hands-on experience in Web3, and a proactive, adaptable approach. The client moved forward quickly, underscoring how closely the profile matched their refined expectations.

Results

We successfully placed a Senior AI Engineer with expertise in autonomous agents, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) systems, and computer vision, with 5 years of experience delivering complex AI solutions from concept to production. Despite the relatively lean experience range, the candidate had already led AI teams across multiple startups and demonstrated strong leadership in high-impact projects. This candidate was secured within 2 weeks and is already driving advancements in Cookie3’s AI-powered analytics, enhancing their ability to deliver precise, actionable insights to clients.

“Following the success of this placement, Cookie3 decided to continue our partnership and opened another role, an AI and Web3 engineer, to strengthen their team further.”

Conclusion

The Web3 and crypto industry is a crucible of innovation, attracting some of the most ambitious minds in tech and business. Companies like Cookie3 operate in high-pressure environments where talent must keep up with fast-paced market shifts, emerging technologies, and aggressive growth goals.

DevsData LLC’s ability to deliver specialized, high-potential candidates in record time showcases our deep understanding of the Web3 landscape. Through a close partnership with Cookie3’s leadership, we were able to respond to their evolving needs and deliver a candidate positioned to drive their continued success in MarketingFi.

This case study is part of our broader track record with Web3 and crypto clients. This is a high-value segment known for substantial funding, rapid scaling, and urgent hiring needs. Our work with Cookie3 reflects our capability to meet these demands and fuel long-term success in one of today’s most competitive industries.

Key outcomes from the Cookie3 project

Ready to build your Web3 dream team?

Contact us at general@devsdata.com or visit www.devsdata.com to discover how we can deliver elite talent in record time.