Recruitment of a Finance Director for Surface Technology International
£60m
Company size
Electronics
Sector
400+
Employees
Brief
Surface Technology International (“STI”) specialises in contract electronics design and manufacturing for world-leading customers in high reliability industries. Headquartered in the UK, STI also has several Asian and US offices. With ambitious plans to continue this international expansion, STI identified the need to appoint an experienced CFO, to work alongside the MD and senior management, to support and deliver this growth strategy.
Search Parameters
CMA Executive engaged with the MD and Head of HR to develop an in-depth understanding of the culture and operating processes, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by the business. It was critical to identify candidates who could demonstrate exceptional financial, strategic, commercial and operational expertise, and with a proven track record of leadership in a business having experienced similar growth.
The first step was to research key industry players and prospective competitors, in addition to potential candidates from complementary industry sectors. A combination of detailed research, proactive head hunting, and referrals delivered in excess of 30 prospects for initial consideration, referencing and qualification.
"CMA Executive engaged with the MD and Head of HR to develop an in-depth understanding of the culture and operating processes, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by the business. It was critical to identify candidates who could demonstrate exceptional financial, strategic, commercial and operational expertise, and with a proven track record of leadership in a business having experienced similar growth."
Outcome
A thorough interview process with fifteen candidates was undertaken by the CMA Executive team to evaluate the skills and behaviours required to perform in this challenging role. In partnership with the Head of HR, CMA designed a rigorous four stage interview process which would include meeting with the leadership team, Non-Executive Director and a site tour.
From the long listed candidates, six individuals who were able to demonstrate the required skill set combined with a strong cultural fit, were selected for an initial meeting. This was further reduced to three candidates, each of which had evidenced the ability to balance stewardship with growth and long term success, and a ‘front-runner’ was then identified for a final meeting from which an appointment was made.
