Roles Recruited
3 x CFO
At The CFO Practice, we are passionate about building meaningful relationships with businesses we are well equipped to support on their journey to success. This ethos is reflected in our ongoing partnership with Business Growth Fund (BGF), which began in 2022.
BGF is the most active equity investor in the UK and Ireland, having deployed £4bn into more than 600 companies and completed over 200 exits since 2011. As an executive search firm specialising in CFO and Finance Director recruitment for high-growth businesses, The CFO Practice is a natural partner for BGF, which works closely with entrepreneurial management teams to deliver value beyond its investments.
The Situation
In 2022, Rob was introduced to BGF’s Head of Talent Portfolio by a mutual contact who recognised The CFO Practice’s experience in appointing high-calibre CFOs and Finance Directors into investor-backed companies. This introduction led to a series of meetings during which Rob developed a detailed understanding of BGF’s investment strategy, its diverse portfolio of growth businesses, and the attributes required of finance leaders operating within a private equity-backed environment.
Over the following year, The CFO Practice strengthened its relationship with BGF by introducing two exceptional CFO candidates from our network—both of whom were successfully appointed into BGF portfolio companies: Garrison (London) and Techspert (Cambridge). Reflecting our commitment to long-term relationships, both introductions were made on a quid pro quo basis. This approach reflects The CFO Practice’s core philosophy: relationships come ahead of fees, and trust with key partners is fundamental to building enduring collaboration.
The Approach
In January 2024, The CFO Practice was formally mandated to lead its first retained search for BGF, supporting the appointment of a CFO for VOSAIO, a £45m London-based B2B travel business.
VOSAIO’s Managing Director sought a high-calibre Finance Director who could step into the CFO role, bringing private equity and corporate finance expertise while partnering closely with BGF to shape the financial strategy of the business.
Following detailed discussions with the Managing Director regarding the role and search process, Rob commenced the CFO search in mid-January. With BGF’s investment into VOSAIO expected to complete in Q2, the recruitment process needed to be efficient and well managed to avoid delays.
Within three weeks, a strong shortlist of CFO and Finance Director candidates was presented and interviews commenced. One month later, the preferred candidate was offered and accepted the role.
The Outcome
The new CFO joined VOSAIO in May 2024, aligning with the completion of BGF’s investment. Six months into the role, she has transitioned seamlessly, receiving strong feedback from the Managing Director, Chair, and BGF. Under her financial leadership, VOSAIO has already completed two acquisitions, positioning the business for continued expansion.
This case study highlights The CFO Practice’s approach to CFO and Finance Director recruitment for investor-backed businesses. By building trusted relationships and delivering focused search processes, we help high-growth companies appoint finance leaders capable of supporting transformational growth.
When Rob makes an introduction to me, I know they’re going to be good. I trust his judgement, and importantly (and somewhat uniquely), I know that his priority is finding the right fit, not finding the right fee.
John Coburn
Portfolio Talent - Business Growth Fund
I worked with Rob Baker when I was searching for my first CFO position, and his approach was incredibly thorough. Rob’s commitment to identifying and introducing high-calibre candidates to his clients was evident from our first interview. He prepared me exceptionally well for each step of the process and kept me updated throughout. Rob was always responsive, highly professional, and approachable with any questions or concerns I had. Even after placing me in the role, he stayed in regular contact to ensure I was happy. I highly recommend Rob to both candidates and employers.
Maral Ghawsi
CFO - VOSAIO
I’ve worked with Robert as a candidate and client for nearly 20 years ever since I was a newly qualified accountant. He is my go-to consultant on both sides because of the trust I have in him. He works with rigor and integrity to find appropriate roles and high-quality candidates. Robert partners with me to problem-solve, bringing forward new ideas to reach a positive outcome. I can’t recommend him highly enough.
Chris Musgrove
CFO - Techspert