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C-Suite

C-Suite Recruitment: The Complete Resource Centre

FD Capital places C-suite executives and senior leadership professionals across the UK — working alongside our sister company Exec Capital on the broadest executive search requirements. This page brings together our full range of C-suite recruitment services, role guides and current vacancies.

 

CEO Recruitment

FD Capital places Chief Executive Officers on a permanent, part-time, fractional and interim basis for UK businesses at all stages of growth.

Risk and Compliance Recruitment

FD Capital has a dedicated practice for Chief Risk Officer and compliance leadership appointments across regulated and complex businesses.

Company Secretary Recruitment

FD Capital places Company Secretaries on a permanent and fractional basis across listed, regulated and private businesses.

Boardroom and Advisory

For businesses requiring independent board-level advisory support outside a formal NED appointment, FD Capital’s Boardroom Advisor service provides senior counsel on a flexible basis.

CALL 020 3287 9501

Exec Capital — Senior Executive Search

For broader C-suite and senior executive search — including CEO, CFO, COO, CTO, CMO and Head of Function appointments — FD Capital works alongside Exec Capital, a specialist executive search firm. Exec Capital focuses on retained senior leadership search for growth-focused, PE-backed and international businesses.

Current C-Suite Vacancies

Part-Time Company Secretary

About FD Capital's C-Suite Practice

FD Capital was founded by Adrian Lawrence FCA, a Chartered Accountant and Fellow of the ICAEW with over 25 years of experience working with boards, investors and senior leadership teams across the UK. He holds an ICAEW practising certificate in his own name. FD Capital is accredited by the Good Business Charter and is a recognised Living Wage Employer.

To discuss a C-suite appointment, call 020 3287 9501 or visit Exec Capital for senior executive search.

About Our Founder

FD Capital was founded by Adrian Lawrence FCA, a Chartered Accountant with over two decades of experience in finance leadership and executive search. Adrian holds a BSc from Queen Mary College, University of London and is a Fellow of the ICAEW. Before founding FD Capital he worked across private, listed, owner-managed and PE-backed organisations, giving him direct experience of the finance challenges and hiring decisions that CFOs are appointed to solve. He personally leads our most senior CFO searches and conducts candidate interviews himself — which is why our assessment process goes substantially deeper than a standard recruiter screen. He holds a practising certificate and this website is associated with his own ICAEW registered Practice. Every brief Adrian takes is informed by having sat on both sides of the table.

Published Research & Thought Leadership Adrian Lawrence FCA, founder of FD Capital, actively contributes to advancing the understanding of fractional and interim finance leadership in the UK. His recent peer-reviewed publications on ResearchGate explore the strategic impact of these flexible executive models on business growth, transformation, and scalability — particularly for SMEs, scale-ups, and PE/VC-backed companies.

These works build on Adrian’s 20+ years of hands-on experience in executive finance recruitment and reflect FD Capital’s commitment to evidence-based, high-impact solutions. Our placements draw directly from these principles to deliver shortlists in 3–7 days that align with real-world strategic needs.

FD Capital operates in accordance with recognised executive search standards and professional recruitment best practices. We support the principles outlined in the UK government’s executive search code of conduct.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Role and Responsibilities

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a senior executive responsible for managing the financial actions of a company. Their duties include tracking cash flow, financial planning, analyzing the company’s financial strengths and weaknesses, and proposing corrective actions. The CFO’s role is crucial for the financial health and sustainability of the organization.

Financial Planning and Analysis

The CFO oversees the company’s financial planning and analysis (FP&A) functions. This includes budgeting, forecasting, and financial modeling. They ensure that the company’s financial plans align with its strategic goals and provide insights into financial performance.

Risk Management

Risk management is a critical responsibility of the CFO. They identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks that could impact the company’s profitability and sustainability. This involves managing credit risk, market risk, and operational risk.

Financial Reporting

The CFO ensures accurate and timely financial reporting. They oversee the preparation of financial statements, regulatory filings, and internal reports. Compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements is a key aspect of this responsibility.

Treasury and Cash Management

The CFO manages the company’s treasury functions, including cash management, investment strategies, and capital structure. They ensure that the company has sufficient liquidity to meet its obligations and optimize the use of its financial resources.

Investor Relations

The CFO plays a vital role in investor relations, communicating the company’s financial performance and strategy to shareholders, analysts, and other stakeholders. They help build and maintain investor confidence and support the company’s market valuation.

Skills and Qualifications

Financial Acumen

A deep understanding of financial principles, accounting standards, and financial markets is essential for a CFO. They must be proficient in financial analysis, forecasting, and risk management.

Strategic Thinking

The CFO must align financial strategies with the company’s overall business objectives. This requires strong strategic thinking and the ability to anticipate future financial trends and challenges.

Leadership and Communication

Effective leadership and communication skills are crucial for a CFO. They must lead finance teams, collaborate with other executives, and communicate financial information clearly to stakeholders.

Regulatory Knowledge

A thorough understanding of regulatory requirements and compliance is necessary. The CFO must stay updated on changes in financial regulations and ensure the company adheres to them.

Importance in the C-Suite

The CFO is a key member of the C-Suite, contributing to the overall strategic direction of the company. They provide financial insights that inform decision-making at the highest level. The CFO’s expertise in managing financial resources and risks is vital for the company’s long-term success and stability.

- Fundraising Experts

Recruit a financial services CFO to build credibility with potential investors and enhance your fundraising efforts with a financial professional with a track record of delivering on access to capital. Gain capital liquidity by working with a CFO with experience and relationships with traditional financial institutions and private investors. Our CFOs have experience working with private equity, venture capitalists, angel investors, and banks to access capital on favourable terms.

- London-based FDs and CFOs

Many of our financial services CFOs are based in London and the surrounding Southeast region. FD Capital is based in Great Portland Street in London, at the heart of the City of London, with a network of financial professionals throughout the capital. We have candidates available to work both in-house and remotely, as well as hybrid, including for immediate starts.

Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Role and Responsibilities

Chief Information Officer (CIO)

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) is primarily responsible for the internal IT infrastructure of an organization. This includes overseeing the implementation and management of information and computer technologies that support the company’s operations and objectives. The CIO ensures that the organization’s IT systems are secure, efficient, and aligned with business goals.

Key responsibilities of a CIO include:

  • Developing and implementing IT strategies that align with the company’s business objectives.
  • Managing the IT department, including staff, budgets, and resources.
  • Ensuring data security and compliance with relevant regulations.
  • Overseeing the integration of new technologies and systems.
  • Collaborating with other C-suite executives to support overall business strategy.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) focuses on the technological innovation and product development aspects of a company. The CTO is responsible for the technological direction of the company, ensuring that the technology strategy supports the company’s goals and objectives. This role often involves a forward-looking perspective, identifying and leveraging new technologies to drive growth and competitive advantage.

Key responsibilities of a CTO include:

  • Setting the technology vision and strategy for the company.
  • Leading the research and development (R&D) efforts to innovate and improve products or services.
  • Overseeing the development and implementation of new technologies.
  • Ensuring that the company’s technology infrastructure can support its growth and objectives.
  • Collaborating with other executives to integrate technology into the overall business strategy.

Key Differences

Focus Areas

The CIO typically focuses on internal IT operations, ensuring that the company’s IT infrastructure is robust, secure, and efficient. The CTO, on the other hand, is more concerned with external technology trends and innovations that can drive the company’s product development and market competitiveness.

Strategic vs. Operational

The CIO’s role is often more operational, dealing with the day-to-day management of IT systems and ensuring that they support the company’s current needs. The CTO’s role is more strategic, looking at how technology can be leveraged to achieve long-term business goals and drive innovation.

Collaboration and Reporting

While both roles require collaboration with other C-suite executives, the CIO often works closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) to manage IT budgets and operational efficiencies. The CTO, however, frequently collaborates with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) to align technology initiatives with business growth and market strategies.

Skills and Qualifications

Chief Information Officer (CIO)

  • Strong background in IT management and operations.
  • Expertise in data security, compliance, and risk management.
  • Excellent leadership and team management skills.
  • Ability to align IT strategies with business objectives.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

  • Deep understanding of technology trends and innovations.
  • Experience in product development and R&D.
  • Strategic thinking and vision-setting capabilities.
  • Strong leadership and project management skills.
  • Ability to drive technological change and innovation.

Industry Variations

Technology Companies

In technology companies, the roles of CIO and CTO can sometimes overlap, with both positions playing crucial roles in driving the company’s technological advancements. The CTO may take a more prominent role in product development, while the CIO focuses on internal IT systems.

Non-Technology Companies

In non-technology companies, the CIO’s role is often more pronounced, as these organizations may not have a dedicated CTO. The CIO in such companies may take on some of the responsibilities typically associated with a CTO, such as overseeing technology innovation and strategy.

Evolving Roles

The roles of CIO and CTO are continually evolving as technology becomes increasingly integral to business operations and strategy. The distinction between the two roles can sometimes blur, especially in smaller organizations where one individual may take on both sets of responsibilities. As businesses continue to adapt to digital transformation, the collaboration between CIOs and CTOs will be crucial in driving technological success and achieving business objectives.

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Sales Officer (CSO)

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)

Role and Responsibilities

The Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and execution of an organization’s marketing and advertising initiatives. The primary responsibility of the CMO is to generate revenue by increasing sales through successful marketing for the entire organization, using market research, pricing, product marketing, marketing communications, advertising, and public relations.

Key Functions

  • Brand Management: The CMO ensures that the company’s brand is strong and consistent across all marketing efforts. This includes managing the brand’s image, voice, and overall presence in the market.
  • Market Research and Analysis: Conducting market research to understand customer needs, market trends, and competitive landscape. This data is crucial for making informed marketing decisions.
  • Marketing Strategy: Developing and implementing comprehensive marketing strategies that align with the company’s business goals. This includes digital marketing, content marketing, and traditional marketing channels.
  • Customer Experience: Enhancing the customer journey and ensuring a positive experience at every touchpoint. This involves working closely with other departments to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Advertising and Promotions: Overseeing the creation and execution of advertising campaigns and promotional activities to drive brand awareness and sales.
  • Budget Management: Managing the marketing budget to ensure efficient allocation of resources and maximum return on investment (ROI).

Skills and Qualifications

  • Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop long-term marketing strategies that align with business objectives.
  • Leadership: Strong leadership skills to manage and inspire the marketing team.
  • Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analyzing market data and metrics to drive decision-making.
  • Creativity: Innovative thinking to develop unique marketing campaigns and strategies.
  • Communication: Excellent communication skills to effectively convey marketing messages and collaborate with other departments.

Chief Sales Officer (CSO)

Role and Responsibilities

The Chief Sales Officer (CSO) is responsible for leading the sales organization to meet or exceed revenue targets. The CSO’s primary focus is on developing and implementing sales strategies, managing the sales team, and driving business growth through effective sales practices.

Key Functions

  • Sales Strategy: Developing and executing sales strategies that align with the company’s overall business goals. This includes identifying target markets, setting sales targets, and creating sales plans.
  • Team Leadership: Leading and managing the sales team, including hiring, training, and performance management. The CSO ensures that the team is motivated and equipped to achieve sales targets.
  • Customer Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with key customers and stakeholders. This involves understanding customer needs and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Sales Operations: Overseeing the sales operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. This includes managing the sales pipeline, forecasting sales, and analyzing sales performance.
  • Collaboration: Working closely with other departments, such as marketing, product development, and finance, to ensure alignment and support for sales initiatives.
  • Revenue Growth: Driving revenue growth through new business development, upselling, and cross-selling opportunities.

Skills and Qualifications

  • Sales Expertise: Deep understanding of sales processes, techniques, and best practices.
  • Leadership: Strong leadership skills to manage and inspire the sales team.
  • Strategic Planning: Ability to develop and implement effective sales strategies.
  • Customer Focus: Strong focus on customer needs and relationship management.
  • Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analyzing sales data and metrics to drive decision-making.
  • Communication: Excellent communication skills to effectively convey sales strategies and collaborate with other departments.
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Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)

Role and Responsibilities

The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) is a senior executive responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources management within an organization. The CHRO plays a critical role in shaping the company’s culture, developing talent strategies, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. Key responsibilities include:

  • Talent Acquisition and Retention: The CHRO is responsible for developing strategies to attract, hire, and retain top talent. This includes overseeing recruitment processes, employer branding, and onboarding programs.
  • Employee Development and Training: The CHRO ensures that employees have access to ongoing training and development opportunities. This includes creating leadership development programs, skill-building workshops, and career advancement pathways.
  • Compensation and Benefits: The CHRO designs and manages competitive compensation and benefits packages to attract and retain employees. This includes salary structures, health benefits, retirement plans, and other perks.
  • Performance Management: The CHRO oversees the performance management system, including setting performance standards, conducting evaluations, and implementing performance improvement plans.
  • Employee Relations: The CHRO addresses employee grievances, mediates conflicts, and ensures a positive work environment. This includes developing policies and procedures to handle workplace issues.
  • Compliance and Risk Management: The CHRO ensures that the organization complies with all labor laws and regulations. This includes managing risks related to employment practices and maintaining ethical standards.

Skills and Qualifications

A successful CHRO typically possesses a combination of education, experience, and skills that enable them to effectively manage the human resources function. Key qualifications include:

  • Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field is usually required. Many CHROs also hold advanced degrees such as an MBA or a master’s in human resources management.
  • Experience: Extensive experience in human resources, including leadership roles, is essential. This often includes experience in various HR functions such as recruitment, employee relations, and compensation.
  • Leadership Skills: The CHRO must have strong leadership and management skills to lead the HR team and influence the broader organization. This includes the ability to inspire and motivate employees.
  • Strategic Thinking: The CHRO must be able to develop and implement long-term HR strategies that align with the organization’s goals. This includes the ability to anticipate future workforce needs and trends.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills are essential for the CHRO to effectively interact with employees at all levels, as well as with external stakeholders.
  • Analytical Skills: The CHRO must be able to analyze data and metrics to make informed decisions about HR policies and practices. This includes the ability to use HR analytics tools and software.

Importance in the Organization

The CHRO plays a vital role in the overall success of the organization by ensuring that the company has a skilled, motivated, and engaged workforce. The CHRO’s contributions include:

  • Driving Organizational Culture: The CHRO helps shape and maintain the company’s culture, which is critical for employee satisfaction and retention. This includes promoting values such as diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Enhancing Employee Engagement: By developing programs and initiatives that foster employee engagement, the CHRO helps improve productivity and reduce turnover.
  • Supporting Business Goals: The CHRO aligns HR strategies with the organization’s business objectives, ensuring that the workforce is capable of meeting current and future challenges.
  • Mitigating Risks: The CHRO helps protect the organization from legal and regulatory risks by ensuring compliance with labor laws and implementing best practices in HR management.
  • Fostering Innovation: By promoting a culture of continuous learning and development, the CHRO encourages innovation and adaptability within the workforce.

Challenges Faced

The CHRO faces several challenges in their role, including:

  • Talent Shortages: Finding and retaining top talent can be difficult, especially in competitive industries or regions with low unemployment rates.
  • Changing Workforce Dynamics: The CHRO must adapt to changes in the workforce, such as the rise of remote work, gig economy, and multigenerational teams.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Keeping up with constantly changing labor laws and regulations can be challenging, requiring the CHRO to stay informed and proactive.
  • Employee Well-being: Addressing issues related to employee mental health, work-life balance, and overall well-being is increasingly important and challenging.
  • Technological Advancements: The CHRO must leverage new technologies to improve HR processes while managing the impact of automation and AI on the workforce.

1. Strategist

CFOs within the financial service industry are strategists who play a vital role in determining a company’s long-term growth through financial leadership. They’ll invest in technology that provides real-time data to enhance forecasting and provide more accurate accounting.

2. Steward

CFOs are a steward of their company, protecting its assets, ensuring that it meets financial compliance regulations and that all financial records are accurately maintained. They’ll put the systems in place that streamline these processes and maintain cash flow forecasting. Risk management is a top priority for financial services CFOs who are expected to offer a fresh approach and unbiased view of the company’s finances to its board and investors.

3. Operator

Today’s CFOs act as operators who start their role by examining the company’s systems and infrastructure and putting technology in place to streamline it. The systems that a CFO puts in place enable financial planning, forecasting, and performance analysis in line with KPIs. As an operator, a financial service CFO will also conduct tax audits and ensure that the company is meetings its regulatory compliance requirements.

4. Catalyst

Successful CFOs are a catalyst for change within their company. By putting the right systems in place and balancing a healthy cash flow, CFOs can invest in human capital and technology to enhance business innovation and reduce overheads and turbo-charge growth.

Emerging C-Suite Roles

Emerging C-Suite Roles

Chief Digital Officer (CDO)

The Chief Digital Officer (CDO) is responsible for driving digital transformation within an organization. This role focuses on integrating digital technologies into all areas of a business, fundamentally changing how the company operates and delivers value to customers. The CDO works closely with other C-suite executives to develop and implement digital strategies that enhance customer experiences, improve operational efficiencies, and create new business models. Key responsibilities include overseeing digital marketing, e-commerce, data analytics, and the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain.

Chief Data Officer (CDO)

The Chief Data Officer (CDO) is tasked with managing and leveraging data as a strategic asset. This role involves overseeing data management, governance, and analytics to ensure that data is accurate, accessible, and secure. The CDO works to create a data-driven culture within the organization, enabling better decision-making and driving business growth. Responsibilities include developing data policies, ensuring compliance with data regulations, and implementing data analytics tools and platforms.

Chief Innovation Officer (CINO)

The Chief Innovation Officer (CINO) is responsible for fostering a culture of innovation within the organization. This role involves identifying new opportunities for growth, developing innovative products and services, and driving continuous improvement. The CINO collaborates with various departments to encourage creative thinking and experimentation. Key responsibilities include managing innovation programs, scouting for emerging technologies, and building partnerships with startups and research institutions.

Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO)

The Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) leads the organization’s sustainability initiatives, focusing on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. This role involves developing and implementing strategies to reduce the company’s environmental footprint, promote social responsibility, and ensure ethical governance. The CSO works to align sustainability goals with business objectives, engaging stakeholders and reporting on sustainability performance. Responsibilities include overseeing sustainability reporting, managing corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

Chief Experience Officer (CXO)

The Chief Experience Officer (CXO) is dedicated to enhancing the overall experience of customers, employees, and other stakeholders. This role involves designing and implementing strategies to improve interactions and touchpoints across the organization. The CXO works to create a seamless and positive experience, whether it’s through customer service, product design, or employee engagement. Key responsibilities include conducting experience research, developing experience metrics, and collaborating with other departments to ensure a consistent and high-quality experience.

Chief Diversity Officer (CDO)

The Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) is responsible for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the organization. This role involves developing and implementing DEI strategies, policies, and programs to create a more inclusive workplace. The CDO works to ensure that the organization attracts, retains, and develops a diverse workforce. Responsibilities include conducting diversity training, analyzing diversity metrics, and fostering an inclusive culture through various initiatives and partnerships.

Chief Remote Work Officer (CRWO)

The Chief Remote Work Officer (CRWO) oversees the organization’s remote work strategy and operations. This role has become increasingly important as more companies adopt remote and hybrid work models. The CRWO is responsible for ensuring that remote work policies are effective, employees are productive, and communication and collaboration tools are optimized. Key responsibilities include developing remote work policies, managing remote work technology, and addressing challenges related to remote work, such as employee engagement and cybersecurity.

Chief Wellness Officer (CWO)

The Chief Wellness Officer (CWO) focuses on the health and well-being of employees. This role involves developing and implementing wellness programs that promote physical, mental, and emotional health. The CWO works to create a supportive work environment that encourages healthy behaviors and reduces stress. Responsibilities include designing wellness initiatives, providing resources and support for employee well-being, and measuring the impact of wellness programs on employee health and productivity.

Financial Services

1. Strategy and forecasting

Financial planning and analysis (FP&A) are one of the main responsibilities of a financial service CFO. It enables CFOs to put complex data into perspective to determine how they will impact the company’s short and long-term situation while translating the company’s financial situation into more understandable language for stakeholders.

CFOs will invest in digital tools, AI, and automation to get real-time insights into factors such as sales trends, macroeconomic data, and information on emerging competitors. This information enables companies to bet assess their KPIs.

2. Controllership

Most financial services CFOs will take up the role of financial controller unless another colleague has the role. A CFO will want to implement a risk management framework that protects against potential fraud and unauthorised user access. Investing in risk management software will ensure that the company meets its compliance and regulatory obligations, including GDPR.

3. Operations

Managing the company’s cash flow is a central part of a CFO’s everyday responsibilities. Treasury management involves a CFO overseeing the company’s assets, debts, and liquidity – including exploring options for increased capital liquidity. A financial service CFO will manage the company’s incoming revenues and outgoing payments, including its short and long-term liabilities.

Why use Exec Capital and FD Capital

We are leaders in Senior Recruitment.

1. Financial Management Software

Cloud-based financial management systems that provide a fully integrated application suite. CFs can therefore oversee accounting, compliance, risk management, and project portfolio management within one system. These applications offer built-in reporting and machine learning to streamline labour-intensive tasks and pave the way for automation.

2. Financial Planning and Analysis Suite

Our financial service CFOs are digital natives who invest in financial planning and analysis suites to utilise scenario modelling, forecasting, and budgeting for better decision-making. Such FP&A systems play a vital role in a company’s financial and strategic planning.

This technology will also provide CFOs with an overview of the company’s finances using debt-to-equity ratios, current ratio, and quick ratio.

Part-Time, Full-Time, or Interim C-Suite Executive?

You don’t need a FTSE 500 budget to recruit a C-Suite Executive. Dozens of our financial executives are available to work on a part-time or fractional basis. You’ll get access to industry-leading experts without the financial burden of a full-time leadership position when working with FD Capital.

We’re increasing recruiting more roles reflecting the changes in the industry.

Recruiting a CEO

Today’s CEOs come from a diverse range of backgrounds beyond the traditional skill set.

FD Capital connects highly-quality financial professionals CEOs, with companies throughout the UK and beyond. Our talent pool includes financial services CEOs available to work on a part-time, interim, and remote basis for added flexibility.

We strive to connect start-ups, SMEs, and scaling companies with industry-leading financial professionals who specialise in financial services.

Schedule a free, confidential consultation call with us today to learn more about our recruitment and headhunting services for financial services CEOs. Members of our recruitment team have over 20 years of experience with a network of candidates throughout the UK and beyond.

Related Services

Start your CEO recruitment or headhunting by contacting our team today at recruitment@fdcapital.co.uk.

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FD Capital
FD Capital
FD Capital

FD Capital Recruitment Ltd is registered at Companies House (no. 13329383) and has been providing CFOs and Finance Directors since 2018 and is operated by an ICAEW-registered practice. Our founder Adrian Lawrence FCA holds an ICAEW practising certificate.