Insight
How to Hire a Finance Manager in a Competitive Market
Hiring a Finance Manager is rarely just about technical accounting knowledge. The strongest hires combine reporting discipline, business partnering ability and the confidence to improve processes across the wider function.
Hiring a Finance Manager is rarely just about technical accounting knowledge. The strongest hires combine reporting discipline, business partnering ability and the confidence to improve processes across the wider function.
Start with the real brief
Before you go to market, clarify what success looks like in the first 12 months. Is the focus on controls, month-end quality, team leadership, budgeting or systems improvement? A sharper brief leads to a sharper shortlist.
Separate must-haves from preferences
Be clear about which requirements are essential and which are flexible. Over-specifying can narrow the pool unnecessarily, especially when strong candidates often bring transferable sector and systems experience.
Assess communication, not just competence
Finance Managers sit between data and decisions. Interview questions should test stakeholder handling, problem-solving and the ability to translate numbers into action.
Move with purpose
In active hiring markets, delay costs quality. A well-structured interview process with timely feedback gives you a better chance of securing the right person.