Case Studies

Finance Director Appointment - Private Equity Backed Company in Surrey

The EMEA Managing Director of PlayPower in Egham, Surrey selected Grafton Banks Finance Executive Search to work on an exclusive retained basis to find the company an EMEA Finance Director.

PlayPower is a $120m turnover global private equity backed manufacturer of children's playgrounds and Grafton Banks were asked to find a commercial and strategic FD, who could work alongside the MD to grow the business to $200m turnover and take EBITDA from 8% to 15%.

The role profile had the following requirements:

• Private equity exposure
• Manufacturing sector experience
• Demonstrable success in building and upskilling finance teams
• Proven ability in leading a pan-European finance team in a growth-orientated business
• Strategic analysis and due diligence experience

Grafton Banks agreed to spend four weeks mapping the market, headhunting, networking, advertising, filtering CVs and meeting prospective candidates. A shortlist of seven relevant candidates was then presented to the MD and Global CFO and five candidates were asked for interview. Three were then invited for a final stage interview and an offer was eventually made and accepted.

"We were looking for a Finance Director whose appointment was crucial to the growth of our business. Key skills required were Manufacturing and Private Equity experience, international accounting, high growth business environment and M&A experience. Additionally the cultural and personality fit had to be right.

"Despite our very specific wish list, Grafton Banks delivered as promised. Alex and his team mapped the market through a combination of networking, headhunting and advertising and produced a list of seven highly suitable candidates. We met five initially for interview, brought back three for a second stage and from this final short list we were able to make an offer which was accepted. Throughout the process I was impressed by Alex's clear understanding of our business and his expertise, advice and support in ensuring that the candidate of choice was secured by us. I can highly recommend Grafton Banks for any Executive Search projects you may have." - MD of PlayPower