Financial Controller for a global real estate asset management firm
A leading, global real estate asset management firm was looking for a Financial Controller to support their growing finance team. They sought a Financial Controller with a unique combination of technical expertise, international exposure, and industry experience, as well as, most importantly, strong cultural alignment to join their team.
The client provided detailed insights about the role, team dynamics, and organisational culture, that were key to us understanding the brief and being able to source for the role efficiently and effectively.
The solution
Because of the senior nature of this role, and the wide-reaching remit it would undertake, multiple decision makers across various European offices were involved, which would mean an extended timeline to hire compared to many other roles we’d usually work on. It was crucial to keep prospective candidates engaged and motivated throughout this – something that was factored into all our approaches and throughout the processes with regular in-person and virtual meetings to keep all parties informed.
To ensure a thorough and confidential search, we agreed on an exclusive arrangement for this hire. This approach allowed us to dedicate our full resources to the process, ensuring comprehensive market coverage, without external noise.
To identify these high-calibre candidates, we leveraged multiple sourcing strategies. Using LinkedIn Recruiter, we mapped the market extensively, identifying passive candidates who fit the key criteria. Our proprietary database also provided access to much of the high-quality talent with proven experience in the real estate sector, that this role could have been suitable for. Additionally, we tapped into our well-established personal networks, utilising referrals and recommendations from trusted industry contacts. Finally, we advertised the role strategically across premium adverts on the best-fitting job boards to further expand the potential talent pool and ensure we reached the best possible candidates.
On completing the initial outreach via these mediums and various stages of the process, with clear, responsive feedback from the client at each stage, the successful Financial Controller, that met all the criteria, was placed.
The result
The chosen candidate brought relevant industry experience, strong international exposure, and multiple language skills. Most importantly, they aligned perfectly with the team's culture, ensuring a smooth and successful integration within the organisation.
Both the client and candidate expressed positive feedback about the process, particularly valuing the consistent communication and commitment to finding the perfect fit.
The Accountancy and Finance recruitment specialists in real estate, property and construction. The team boast an enviable network of experienced professionals across both permanent and, uniquely, contract/interim finance roles in the industry. From part-qualified Assistant Accountants, to temp Financial Controllers for year-end and other busy periods, as well as Finance Directors and Interim CFOs, the team has a long history of placing finance professionals across both fund and corporate accounting teams, within commercial, residential and alternative asset classes across the built environment. Get in touch with us here.
