Roles Recruited
Director of Finance & Operations
Interim Finance Director
At The CFO Practice, we believe it is essential to tailor our search approach to the specific needs of each client. This philosophy was central to our partnership with Earth Security over the last 18 months, where we supported the organisation through both interim and permanent Finance Director recruitment.
Earth Security is a London-based, high-growth analytics firm on a mission to connect global finance with nature’s capital. The organisation plays an influential role in mobilising corporations, investors, and governments to recognise the value of ecosystem services and natural capital investments, addressing critical climate resilience and biodiversity challenges.
Interim search
In Spring 2023, The CFO Practice was recommended to Earth Security by a mutual contact to assist with the recruitment of a newly created Director of Finance & Operations role.
Following detailed discussions with the Managing Director, it became clear that appointing an Interim Finance Director would be the most effective solution to support a business-wide transformation already underway. An interim Finance Director search therefore provided the flexibility to introduce experienced financial leadership while allowing the organisation time to define the long-term structure of the permanent role.
The Interim Finance Director was tasked with leading a 12-month transformation programme, including implementing new financial systems, strengthening operational processes, and preparing Earth Security’s finance function to support future growth.
The CFO Practice conducted an intensive and focused interim Finance Director search process over a two-week period, considering high-calibre Interim Finance Directors from diverse backgrounds including consulting, investment funds, and think tanks. Following interviews with three candidates and further discussions with Earth Security’s Chair, an interim candidate was appointed and joined the business immediately.
Permanent search
Throughout the interim engagement, The CFO Practice remained in close contact with both the Managing Director and the Interim Finance Director. After seven months, we re-engaged with Earth Security to discuss the recruitment of a permanent Director of Finance & Operations leader to support the organisation’s next stage of development.
The permanent position was defined as a broad and hands-on Finance Director role, overseeing all back-office functions while continuing to drive operational transformation and supporting the organisation’s long-term growth strategy.
The CFO Practice conducted a targeted Finance Director search, proactively identifying candidates across financial services, impact investing, and consulting. From a longlist of more than 300 potential candidates, a rigorous screening process produced a shortlist of four exceptional professionals.
After three weeks of interviews involving the Managing Director, Chair, and Interim Finance Director, a candidate with extensive experience in social investment and impact finance was selected. To ensure a smooth transition, the successful candidate joined on a part-time basis during their notice period, gradually increasing their involvement before starting full-time in September 2024.
The Outcome
Since the new Director of Finance & Operations joined in September 2024, Earth Security’s headcount has grown by 33%.
The Director of Finance & Operations has continued to strengthen the organisation’s operational platform, supporting sustainable growth while receiving excellent feedback from both the Managing Director and Chair.
Through a flexible and tailored approach, The CFO Practice successfully delivered both the interim and permanent Finance Director recruitment, enabling Earth Security to drive transformation, enhance operational capability, and position itself for future success.
Rob handled our Director of Finance & Operations (London based) search with incredible efficiency and efficacy, quickly finding excellent candidates with the right profile for our company and helping manage the whole process seamlessly to a good outcome. The CFO Practice is everything one would hope for in a search firm.
Alejandro Litovsky
Founder & Chief Executive - Earth Security
I highly recommend Rob Baker to any candidate seeking new CFO or FD opportunities. Rob is an exceptional recruiter who truly understands the nuances of financial leadership roles and is dedicated to finding the best fit for your career. He is efficient, highly responsive, and kept me well informed throughout the entire process with Earth Security. Rob is also an outstanding communicator—clear, supportive, and genuinely invested in understanding my skills, experience, and career goals. He treats you as a person, not just a prospect, making you feel that he’s listening to you rather than selling to you.
Simon Cottee
Director of Finance and Operations - Earth Security