Case Study: Exclusive Recruitment of 8 Senior Finance Roles for a National Insurance Group

Client Relationship Managed By: Nathan Freestone

Background

A fast-growing and dynamic national insurance group engaged Wade Macdonald to recruit key permanent finance roles over a two-year period. The company was undergoing a period of sustained growth and financial transformation, driven by ambitious expansion plans and operational enhancements.

To support this journey, Wade Macdonald partnered exclusively with the organisation to recruit eight senior finance professionals, including:

  • Management Accountant: To strengthen financial reporting and operational oversight.
  • Two Senior Group Accountants: To enhance group-level reporting, compliance, and consolidation.
  • Group Accountant: To ensure accurate and timely financial reporting for senior stakeholders.
  • Finance Transformation Specialist: To lead critical change projects and process improvements.
  • Three Finance Business Partners (FBPs): To deliver commercial insight and drive decision-making in key business areas.

 

Brief

The client required high-calibre, permanent finance professionals who could deliver technical excellence and add strategic value. These roles were integral to strengthening the finance function, supporting transformation initiatives, and enabling growth. Recruitment was managed in stages, often involving two simultaneous searches to align with the organisation’s priorities and timelines.

 

Methodology

Nathan Freestone led the assignment, working closely with the client to ensure each role was filled with exceptional candidates. The process included:

  • Strategic Planning: Conducted regular consultations with the client to align recruitment efforts with ongoing transformation goals, allowing for a phased approach over the two-year period.
  • Targeted Search: Leveraged our extensive finance network while conducting tailored searches through LinkedIn Recruiter and specialist finance job boards to ensure access to the best talent available.
  • Rigorous Screening: Candidates were evaluated through a blend of competency-based and technical interviews to assess their ability to deliver results in a fast-changing and demanding environment.
  • Efficient Process: Shortlists for each role were delivered promptly to maintain momentum, with interviews and second-stage presentations ensuring robust selection decisions.

 

Outcome

Over the two years, Wade Macdonald successfully recruited all eight roles, providing candidates who integrated seamlessly into the organisation. The Finance Transformation Specialist played a pivotal role in streamlining processes, while the Finance Business Partners and group-level accountants enhanced reporting quality and supported commercial decision-making.