The inception of our client resulted from the strategic acquisition and merger of various student accommodation portfolios. Recognising the need for an experienced executive team to drive business expansion and secure a successful exit strategy, the CEO entrusted us with the mission of building a strong leadership lineup.
Working closely with the CEO, our initial focus was hiring key executives, including a Chief Operating Officer, HR Director, General Counsel, and Head of Investment. As the company flourished, it became evident that the current CFO lacked the specialised expertise required for navigating the UK’s most substantial real estate deals.
In response, we set out to find a highly qualified CFO with a proven track record in the real estate sector, adept with hands-on experience in managing public listings or facilitating secondary sales to private equity or infrastructure funds, and possessing exceptional stakeholder management skills.
Beyond qualifications, we recognised the importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity on the Board. Therefore, our Search extended to identifying an individual with a diverse skill set capable of guiding the company through significant real estate transactions while fostering continuous growth.
Under the guidance of the CEO, we initiated a comprehensive Search to find the perfect CFO with specific experience within the real estate sector. Our goal was to identify a candidate who possessed the necessary expertise to drive the company’s ambitious growth plans and eventual exit strategy.
After an extensive Search, we curated a shortlist of candidates who not only met the qualifications but also demonstrated the ability to navigate complex leadership dynamics within a private equity environment.
Following a diligent Search process, an accomplished and highly qualified female CFO was hired. With her strategic acumen, she played a pivotal role in navigating the firm through the UK’s largest private acquisition just before the pandemic hit. Her exceptional leadership and financial expertise were instrumental in achieving a successful outcome for the deal, solidifying her position as an indispensable contributor to the company’s success within the student accommodation sector.
