Inspiring the Next Generation of CFOs: Insights from Sharp Consultancy at Deloitte’s Leadership Event

​Last Thursday 6th February Sharp Consultancy were kindly invited by Andrew Ward and James Izzard of Deloitte in Leeds to attend their Next Generation CFO Programme as Guest Speakers and to present on The Journey to Becoming a CFO – The Recruiter’s Perspective. ​Michael Ball and Lee Sweeney, both Partners in Sharp Consultancy’s, The CFO Partnership undertook the wonderful task. ​We asked Mike for his thoughts:"It was a wonderful experience presenting to some of the most inspirational Financial Controllers and Financial Directors in the region. The ambitious group of delegates will surely populate the board rooms of many of Yorkshire’s and the UK’s finest businesses in years to come and it was a privilege for Lee and I to share our experiences of what is needed to transition in to a first class CFO. Thank you, Andrew Ward and James Izzard, for the kind invitation"​Lee added:​​"As recruiters, there is often a misconception that conducting an executive search for a client is the sum total of our service offering. The reality is quite the contrary at Sharp Consultancy and The CFO Partnership. Working with individuals to support and advise them through their career journey is one of the most satisfying aspects of our roles. I would invite anyone currently on that path to contact us if they would like any further support"​The journey to becoming a CFO is one that requires dedication, strategic career moves, and continuous development. Events like the Next Generation CFO Programme provide invaluable opportunities for aspiring finance leaders to gain insights, build networks, and refine their approach to leadership. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, those who embrace learning and adaptability will be best positioned for success. ​Are you looking to strengthen your team with top-tier finance and accountancy professionals? At Sharp Consultancy, we excel in connecting your business with exceptional talent for temporary, interim, or permanent roles. With our well-established offices in Leeds and Sheffield, our experienced consultants are dedicated to serving businesses across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't leave your recruitment needs to chance—contact us TODAY and let's find the perfect candidates to drive your business forward.

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Interim Senior and Qualified Finance Jobs in Leeds

Interim Senior and Qualified Finance Jobs

The Path to Success with a Career in Interim Senior and Qualified Finance Roles

The finance sector plays a critical role in shaping global business operations, guiding decisions that drive markets, businesses, and economic growth. A career in interim senior and qualified finance positions offers dynamic opportunities for leadership, impact, and professional development. From stabilising organisations during transitions to overseeing strategic financial initiatives, professionals in these roles are essential for steering success in challenging environments.

What are Interim Senior and Qualified Finance Roles?

Interim senior and qualified finance roles encompass high-level financial positions, often filled on a temporary or project basis, requiring expertise gained through recognised certifications like Chartered Accountant (ACA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). These roles demand a combination of strategic insight, leadership skills, and the ability to address complex financial challenges efficiently. They are ideal for experienced professionals seeking flexible opportunities to make a significant impact.

Skills Required for Interim Senior and Qualified Finance Professionals

Success in interim senior and qualified finance positions requires a robust mix of technical acumen and interpersonal capabilities:

  • Strategic Thinking: The ability to assess business objectives and align financial strategies with organisational goals.

  • Leadership: Strong leadership skills to manage teams, drive initiatives, and deliver results within tight deadlines.

  • Problem-Solving: Quick and innovative solutions to address issues like liquidity concerns, regulatory compliance, and restructuring.

  • Communication Skills: Effectively conveying financial insights and recommendations to executives, boards, and stakeholders.

  • Adaptability: Thriving in dynamic environments and adjusting to the unique challenges of interim assignments.

  • Technical Expertise: Mastery of financial reporting, auditing, and risk management, underpinned by professional certifications.

Career Growth Potential in Interim Senior and Qualified Finance Roles

The career prospects in interim senior and qualified finance are vast and versatile. Professionals can step into roles such as Interim Finance Director, Interim CFO, or Senior Financial Consultant across diverse sectors, including technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services.

These roles provide valuable opportunities to enhance leadership experience, broaden professional networks, and develop a portfolio of successful assignments. Additionally, the rising demand for flexible, project-based expertise has created an expanding market for interim finance professionals, especially in areas like digital transformation, financial restructuring, and M&A advisory.

Global financial hubs such as London, New York, and Singapore present exciting prospects for those seeking international assignments, while certifications like ACA, CFA, and ACCA ensure credibility and recognition worldwide.

Why Choose Interim Senior and Qualified Finance Roles?

Interim senior and qualified finance roles offer the chance to combine flexibility with significant impact. Competitive compensation packages, coupled with the ability to work on high-stakes projects, make these roles appealing to experienced professionals. They also provide the satisfaction of driving meaningful change—whether stabilising an organisation during transition or leading critical financial initiatives.

In conclusion, a career in interim senior and qualified finance is a pathway to professional excellence and meaningful contributions. By mastering essential skills and embracing the dynamic nature of these roles, finance professionals can enjoy a fulfilling and impactful career while remaining indispensable to organisations worldwide.

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Jobs in Leeds

Leeds, located in the heart of West Yorkshire, is one of the UK’s most vibrant and fast-growing cities. Known for its rich industrial history and modern development, Leeds combines a lively cultural scene with excellent employment opportunities and efficient transport links. This article explores the city’s culture, commuting options, and common career prospects.

The Culture in Leeds

Leeds boasts a diverse and dynamic cultural landscape, making it a fantastic place to live and work. The city is renowned for its thriving arts scene, with institutions like the Leeds Art Gallery and The Tetley showcasing contemporary and classic works. For performing arts enthusiasts, venues such as the Grand Theatre and Leeds Playhouse offer a wide array of productions, from cutting-edge dramas to world-class ballet performances.

Leeds is also a hub for music lovers, with an eclectic mix of live music venues, including the O2 Academy and the Belgrave Music Hall. Its annual Leeds Festival is a must-visit for fans of rock and alternative music, drawing visitors from across the country.

The city celebrates its multiculturalism through events like the Leeds West Indian Carnival, the oldest Caribbean carnival in Europe, and a wide variety of international restaurants and eateries, offering everything from authentic Yorkshire puddings to global cuisine.

Commuting in Leeds

Leeds offers an efficient and well-connected transportation network, making commuting straightforward for residents. The city’s railway station, one of the busiest outside London, provides excellent links to major cities like Manchester, Sheffield, and London, making it a popular choice for professionals. Trains to London take just over two hours, while Manchester is reachable in under an hour.

Public transport within the city is predominantly bus-based, with operators such as First Bus and Arriva providing frequent services to suburban areas. Leeds is also preparing for future upgrades to its transport infrastructure, including the proposed Mass Transit System, which aims to improve connectivity further.

Cycling is another popular commuting option, supported by extensive cycle paths and bike-friendly initiatives. The city centre is compact and walkable, allowing many residents to enjoy a stress-free commute on foot.

Common Careers in Leeds

Leeds has a thriving economy with opportunities across various sectors, making it an attractive location for job seekers. Some of the most common career options include:

  • Financial Services: Leeds is one of the UK’s largest financial hubs outside London, with major institutions like Lloyds Banking Group, Yorkshire Building Society, and KPMG providing significant employment.

  • Healthcare: As home to St. James's University Hospital, one of the largest teaching hospitals in Europe, Leeds offers numerous roles in healthcare and medical research.

  • Digital and Tech: The city has a burgeoning digital sector, with companies specialising in fintech, gaming, and data analytics. Leeds is often dubbed the “digital capital of the North.”

  • Education: With institutions like the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University, the city offers roles in academia, administration, and student services.

  • Retail and Hospitality: With shopping districts like Trinity Leeds and a thriving nightlife scene, careers in retail, food service, and hospitality are widely available.

Conclusion

Leeds is a city that seamlessly blends a rich cultural heritage with modern living. Its accessible commuting options and diverse career opportunities make it an excellent choice for professionals and families alike. Whether you’re drawn by the arts, the convenience of transport, or the promise of a flourishing career, Leeds has something to offer everyone.

Jobs in Leeds