Among all C-suite hires in private equity-backed companies, the Chief Financial Officer remains the most critical, especially in the early post-acquisition phase. While the CEO sets the direction, it’s often the CFO who determines whether the company can maintain momentum and meet investor expectations.
90 Days to Clarity and Control
From the first 90 days, a strong CFO makes an immediate impact: professionalizing reporting, budgeting, and forecasting to bring clarity and control. More than a number-cruncher, the ideal CFO acts as a strategic partner to the CEO and a trusted voice in the boardroom. And when the time comes to exit — whether through a sale, recap, or IPO — it’s often the CFO who drives readiness behind the scenes.
The Right CFOs Bring More Than Numbers
The best CFOs in PE environments are those who’ve seen the full investment cycle before. Experienced finance leaders from large corporates seeking more autonomy can thrive in these roles, as can commercially-minded FP&A heads or controllers — especially in the lower mid-market, where CFOs wear many hats.
Timing is everything
Starting the search during due diligence can prevent value leakage during transition. Competitive compensation benchmarking is key to attracting proven talent. And when the timeline is tight, interim CFOs or on-deck PE finance resources can bridge the gap.
Hiring mistakes are costly
Red flags include over-reliance on legacy systems, lack of deal experience, or poor communication skills. A CFO must be able to navigate investors, lenders, and leadership teams with equal ease.
Conclusion
In the end, the right CFO doesn’t just manage the numbers — they accelerate value creation. Treat the CFO search as a strategic move, not a transactional hire.
Warm regards,
Wilko Grievink
📱 +31 6 553 622 53
✉️ wilko.grievink@hightouchglobal.com
