Case Study: Retained Search for a Finance Director in the Charity Sector

Case Study: Retained Search for a Finance Director in the Charity Sector

Consultant: Chris Goulding

Background

A leading organisation in the charity sector approached Wade Macdonald to conduct a retained search for a new Finance Director. The role was critical, requiring a strategic leader to oversee financial operations and drive the organisation’s mission forward. The assignment was made more urgent by the unexpected early departure of the outgoing Finance Director, necessitating a swift but thorough recruitment process.

Brief

During an in-depth briefing meeting, Wade Macdonald collaborated with the client to:

• Develop a detailed job specification tailored to the organisation’s needs.
• Define core competencies and technical skills essential for success in the role.
• Establish a clear and efficient timeline for the search and appointment process.

The client required someone with significant charity sector experience, a strong technical and strategic financial background, and the ability to align with the organisation’s values and mission.

Methodology

A structured and comprehensive approach was implemented to identify the ideal candidate:

• Targeted Search: While using traditional recruitment methods, such as LinkedIn Recruiter and job board advertising, we focused specifically on candidates with charity sector experience.
• Branded Advertising and Prospectus Creation: A bespoke marketing campaign was developed using the client’s branding, including a professionally designed prospectus outlining the organisation’s mission, values, and the role’s impact. This was sent to targeted candidates to enhance engagement.
• Candidate Screening: Every applicant was personally met by Wade Macdonald consultants and assessed against a competency framework and technical skill requirements. Detailed score sheets were compiled for each candidate to ensure an objective and transparent shortlisting process.
• Client Collaboration: A shortlist of five top candidates was presented to the client in a dedicated meeting, supported by comprehensive candidate reports and scoring data.

Outcome

Two candidates progressed to final interviews. The successful candidate, who brought both exceptional financial expertise and deep charity sector experience, was able to start within one month, allowing for a brief but effective handover with the outgoing Finance Director.