EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO WRITE A STAND-OUT

Lessons in Leadership: What It Takes to Be a Future CFO

Last Thursday we had the pleasure of hosting an insightful and inspirational Future CFO-focused event, where we explored their experiences and journeys. All attendees had the privilege of hearing from three fantastic senior finance leaders - Nick Shaw, Kayleigh Wright and James Wenninger, each bringing a unique perspective shaped by their own career journeys — with the consensus across all speakers and focus of: driving meaningful, strategic value across their organisations. Each leader shared personal experiences of navigating challenges, leading transformation, and elevating the role of finance from a back-office function to a true business partner and value creator. Each speaker offered valuable perspectives, and several key takeaways stood out: Build a team that compliments you : Great leadership means recognising and embracing the skills you don’t have. All three CFOs emphasised the strength of surrounding themselves with good people and team members whose strengths contrast their own — creating well-rounded, agile finance functions. Embrace the unknown with confidence: Whether navigating new industries, acquisitions, or rapid change, one message was clear: lean into the uncertainty and trust your ability to adapt. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones. Blend experience from big & small companies : The synergy of experience from both large-scale corporations and nimble, fast-paced environments is invaluable. The ability to scale thinking and apply structured processes in leaner settings was a recurring theme. Identify and align with key business needs : Strategic finance leaders go beyond numbers. They seek out synergies and align with business-specific needs — from systems integration to cultural alignment — to ensure long-term value add. Own your decisions…fully! : True ownership means standing by your decisions and being accountable for their outcomes. Openly discussed and demonstrated how conviction and responsibility can elevate leadership and trust across the organisation with a wider impact! A huge thank you again to Nick Shaw, Kayleigh Wright & James Wenninger who were incredible speakers and all who contributed to making this event a success. It was a timely reminder of the evolving, multi-dimensional role of today’s Finance leaders. Huge thanks as well to all attendees for bringing openness in their points / questions , and energy to the room. Looking forward already to next year!To hear about future events, contact Jack Curtis!

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Alongside an impressive CV, the accompanying cover letter will give would-be employers their first glimpse of you and helps them to gain an insight into what you can offer them and how suitable you are for the available role.

It is an essential element of your application - in some cases it will be required as part of the process - and a strong cover letter can increase your chances of being short-listed for an interview.

Here are our top tips and suggestions to help you write the perfect cover letter:

Be concise

A well constructed cover letter can help you stand out from the crowd and will show potential employers that you have considered how you are suited to the position and your enthusiasm for becoming part of the team. Unless stated otherwise try and keep your cover letter to one page and break the content down into clear, easily readable sections that highlight the key points on your CV.

Keep it relevant

Your cover letter should be tailored to be relevant for each position that you are applying for; some roles may specify what needs to be included. Show that you have taken the time to research and understand the role by relating your experience back to the criteria outlined in the job description and person specification.

Attention to detail

Your cover letter will more than likely form a potential employer’s first impression of you as a possible candidate; your letter needs to be error-free so make sure you carefully check for any spelling or grammar mistakes. Also ensure that your letter is clearly marked with the position that you are applying for.

Stand out from other applicants

As well as highlighting how your experience relates to their requirements, consider what additional skills and attributes you can bring to the role and how ultimately, you can contribute towards the aspirations of the business in addition to your own career ambitions.

Outline why you are interested in the position

Employers are looking for candidates who are interested in working for the company, so explain what appeals to you about the organisation as well as the role itself. If relevant, briefly outline why you are looking to make a move and where possible, highlight your achievements in your current role to demonstrate how you have made successful contributions.

Sharp Consultancy specialises in the recruitment of temporary, interim and permanent finance professionals. With offices in Leeds and Sheffield our highly experienced team of consultants recruit for positions throughout Yorkshire and beyond. CONTACT US today to speak to a member of our team about your next career move.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO WRITE A STAND-OUT COVER LETTER