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 company. This was evident in our partnership with Earth Security over the last 18 months.
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 pressing climate resilience and biodiversity challenges.
The Situation and Approach – Interim
In Spring 2023, The CFO Practice was recommended to Earth Security by a mutual contact to assist with the newly created Director of Finance & Operations role.
Following detailed discussions with the Managing Director, it was agreed that an Interim Finance Professional would be the best approach to support a business-wide transformation already underway.
The Interim Finance Director was tasked with leading a 12-month transformation project, including implementing new systems, upgrading key processes, and preparing Earth Security for future growth. This interim solution provided the flexibility to identify the best long-term fit for the permanent Director of Finance & Operations role once the transformation was complete.
The CFO Practice conducted an intensive, focused shortlisting process over two weeks, 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.
The Situation and Approach – Permanent
Throughout the interim contract, The CFO Practice remained in close contact with the Managing Director and the Interim Finance Director. After seven months, we re-engaged with Earth Security to discuss a long-term successor for the role.
The permanent position of Director of Finance & Operations was defined as a broad and hands-on role, overseeing all back-office functions while continuing to drive transformation and spearhead future growth. The CFO Practice conducted a targeted search, proactively identifying candidates across financial services, impact investing, and consulting. From over 300 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 an extensive social investment background was selected. To ensure a seamless transition, the incoming 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 started in September 2024, Earth Security’s headcount has grown by 33%.
The new Director has continued to strengthen the organisation’s operational platform, driving sustainable growth and receiving excellent feedback from both the Managing Director and Chair.
Through a flexible, tailored approach, The CFO Practice delivered both interim and permanent finance leadership solutions for Earth Security, enabling the business to drive transformation, enhance operations, and prepare for future success.
Executive Recruitment
finance leaders who
drive change
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