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 exemplified by 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 over 600 companies and completed more than 200 exits since 2011. As an executive recruitment firm specialising in high-growth, transformative businesses, The CFO Practice is an ideal partner for BGF, which works closely with entrepreneurial management teams to deliver value beyond investments.
The Situation
In 2022, The CFO Practice facilitated an introduction with BGF’s Head of Talent Portfolio. Through a series of meetings, we developed a deep understanding of BGF’s fund, its portfolio companies, and the key attributes required for finance leaders in CFO and Finance Director roles across its investments.
Over the next year, we strengthened our relationship with BGF, introducing two exceptional CFOs from The CFO Practice network. Both candidates successfully secured roles within BGF portfolio companies: Garrison (London) and Techspert (Cambridge). As part of our commitment to building long-term relationships, both introductions were provided on a quid pro quo basis. This approach reflects The CFO Practice’s philosophy: relationships come ahead of fees, and trust with key partners is critical to fostering strong, lasting collaborations.
The Approach
In January 2024, The CFO Practice was formally mandated to run its first search for BGF, leading the appointment of a CFO for VOSAIO, a £45m B2B travel, London based company.
VOSAIO’s Managing Director sought a high-calibre Finance Director with private equity and corporate finance expertise who could step into the CFO role and shape the financial future of the business alongside BGF.
After detailed discussions with the Managing Director about the requirements and process, The CFO Practice commenced the search in mid-January. With BGF’s investment into VOSAIO expected to close in Q2, the process needed to be agile and efficient to avoid delays.
Within three weeks, a strong shortlist of 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 secured two acquisitions, setting the stage for further growth.
This case study illustrates The CFO Practice’s dedication to exceeding expectations in executive recruitment. We pride ourselves on developing strong partnerships with businesses that align with our values and approach, ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes.
Executive Recruitment
finance leaders who
drive change
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