Stop. Short break at this point. When we talk about influencers, we mean the word in its original form. If you now think of fitness exercises with Pamela Reif as a comparison, you won't understand the next paragraph.
As already indicated, it is important that the person you want to place as a thought leader for your startup, for example, is also capable of being one. This is because the candidate should be willing to act like an influencer. That means being qualified as a speaker and for panel discussions, and having an appetite for sharing something personal about themselves. It should also be someone who stands for the company. So preferably someone from the founding team or the CEO.
It is also important that the thought leader is not a flag in the wind, but also stands by his opinion when he receives criticism. That's why you need someone who has enough self-confidence and courage. Someone who is able to inspire his community. You don't have to please everyone, after all, you don't want to become the next chancellor. Focus on having a strong voice in your relevant environment - because that's what it's all about!