A major UK accident repair group, operating a nationwide network of state-of-the-art centres, required additional senior leadership capability to support its next phase of growth following private equity investment. Strengthening the finance function was critical to sustaining momentum and delivering long-term strategic plans.
The Challenge
- Profitable, well-established business transitioning to majority private equity (PE) ownership.
- Existing long-serving senior finance leader had over 25 years’ tenure but had no PE exposure.
- Requirement for a new CFO with proven experience in PE-backed environments, M&A and exit planning.
- Complex recruitment process involving multiple stakeholders, including active participation from the PE investors.
How Headstar Stepped In
- Proactively headhunted and conducted a targeted executive search focused on CFOs with strong experience in PE-backed businesses, M&A and transformation.
- Appointed in direct competition with a London-based search firm, leading with regional insight and established local candidate networks.
- Leveraged deep knowledge of the Yorkshire finance market to access high-calibre local candidates not visible to national firms.
- Worked closely with both the Group Managing Director, HR Director and PE investors throughout the process to ensure alignment.
The Impact
- PE-Ready CFO Appointed – A new CFO was appointed with a strong track record in PE-backed growth, acquisitions and exit planning.
- Enhanced Strategic Capability – The business gained senior finance leadership with expertise in growth, M&A and exit preparation.
- Cultural Fit Preserved – The appointment complemented the existing long-standing finance team while adding new capability.
- Regional Expertise Proven – Headstar represented all candidates progressing to second-stage interviews, outperforming the London-based agency.
In the Words of the Client
“Headstar provided exceptional support throughout this process, helping us identify and attract high-calibre candidates with the specific blend of experience and expertise needed to support our next stage of growth. Our chosen candidate’s experience in private equity-backed businesses, combined with their commercial acumen and strategic mindset, make them a superb addition to our leadership team. Their collaborative, hands-on approach and proven ability to lead growth will be invaluable as we continue to expand and evolve.”
Group Managing Director
