Taken aback from the outset, having been in charge (8)

I believe the answer is:

startled

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'taken aback' is the definition.
(startling is a kind of taking aback)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for startled that I've seen before include "Taken by surprise" , "Caused sudden alarm" , "Frightened or surprised suddenly" , "Shocked, alarmed" , "Scared" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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