Finance Director

Client / Mandate complexity

The Head of HR approached us regarding an advisory piece of work regarding high-calibre succession planning. The brief was to both internally and externally assess the market, suggesting benchmarks and recommendations for the next part of their growth within the Finance function.

Key requirements

The candidate needed to be technically strong, with the credibility to engage confidently with senior stakeholders and the leadership team. They would also take responsibility for the day-to-day management of the finance team, ensuring the function ran effectively while supporting the wider business.

Constraints or sensitivities

Candidates needed experience working in firms with complex legacy structures, including long-standing special purpose vehicles built up over many years. The role required someone who understood how to manage and report across these structures, with the financial and technical capability to deal with historical complexity and long-established reporting frameworks.

Market mapping and intelligence

We conducted a thorough market map across peer firms, focusing on Finance Directors and Heads of Finance, while also considering selected CFOs from smaller funds where relevant.

Candidate evaluation process

The process used clear selection criteria and a structured case study to assess candidates’ technical capability, judgement, and suitability for the role.

Successful placement details

Since joining, they have coached and restructured the finance team, creating greater efficiency across the function. They have integrated well into the culture of the firm and are proving to be a strong long-term fit for the business.