A confidential search for a new CFO
A Derbyshire-based manufacturer, operating for over 250 years, engaged us in an executive search for a new CFO. After the appointment of a new Managing Director, they needed a strong finance leader to help steady the ship; someone who could manage a busy team, getting stuck into the day-to-day accounting, as well as building and executing on strategic decisions that would directly affect business growth.
The Challenge
The business needed to find a CFO with proven experience in growing a business, coupled with the technical expertise to be hands-on with the team. They had to be commercially minded and able to both develop and execute a growth strategy.
Their ideal fit would also have experience turning a business from a loss to a profit, and be comfortable making decisions to steer the wider business.
Along with the skillset, there was also the challenge of the less central location of the business, and the niche manufacturing sector they operated in; the candidate would ideally have relevant sector experience and an understanding of the specific operational processes of that sector.
The owners had initially considered advertising and managing the search themselves. However, their People Director was keen to use a recruiter, due to the wider reach and process steering an established recruiter can bring to an executive search.
We were engaged on a confidential, exclusive basis to recruit an experienced CFO.
Our Approach
We didn't run this as a standard 'advertised search'. Given the confidential nature of the role and the seniority required, our first port of call was the Exec Search team's network - the finance leaders who aren't actively job hunting, but are open to the right conversation. We've built that network over years of placements and relationship management — it's the kind of resource that you don't get from job board searches and advertising; it only comes from having placed someone before and having stayed in touch since.
Approaching candidates from our network meant we could have open, candid conversations about what the business actually needed. These were all people our team knew well and had existing relationships with, whilst also fulfilling the skillset needed. The four candidates we sent for consideration were invited to interview.
The Outcome
From the four candidates we submitted, their top choice was appointed as the business's new CFO following a 3-stage interview process. His people management skills turned out to be as important as his finance expertise, supporting the finance team, as well as other parts of the business through the changes that were being made.
For our client, this appointment gave the business a finance leader who was able to work alongside the new MD to drive change and bring a calm and experienced hand to drive the finance team forward. The hire fit both the job description and the exact moment the business was in.
This search was a reminder that our strongest placements often aren't found via advertising or cold LinkedIn messages — they're already known to us.
The Feedback
"When it comes to finding a recruitment partner, I genuinely couldn't recommend Sewell Wallis and their team highly enough.
From the very beginning, they invested the time to truly understand our business. Rather than taking a transactional approach, they aligned their search strategy with our long-term objectives. Their ability to consistently identify high-calibre candidates at every level is a testament to the strength of their market knowledge, network, and recruitment expertise.
One of the things that sets Sewell Wallis apart is the quality-over-quantity approach they take. We haven't had to spend countless hours reviewing hundreds of CVs or interviewing unsuitable candidates because they take the time to get it right, saving us significant time while giving us complete confidence in every recommendation they make.
Sewell Wallis has become far more than a recruitment agency or supplier to us; they are a trusted extension of our business and a true strategic recruitment partner. Their professionalism, integrity, responsiveness, and commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes have made them an invaluable part of our growth journey."
Nick, People Director
Tap into our expertise
Our team has built networks over many years in the Yorkshire recruitment sector. Working with us will give you access to talent you won't find on the market, and keep you in the loop of roles across the region when you're ready for a move.
Whether you're a candidate looking for your next step, or a client looking for your next superstar, hit the relevant button below and talk to our team today!