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Why a Strong CV is Non-Negotiable for Finance Professionals in 2025

​As a Senior Resourcer at Sharp Consultancy, I’ve reviewed thousands of CVs...From those just starting out to seasoned professionals with decades of experience. One thing remains consistent: in today’s competitive market, a strong CV isn’t optional—it’s essential. Today, South Yorkshire’s finance landscape is more dynamic than ever. With growing demand across sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and tech, accountancy and finance professionals are expected to bring more than just technical skills to the table. Your CV is your first opportunity to prove you’re up to the challenge. This blog marks the start of a three-part series focused on helping you craft a standout CV tailored to your career stage and goals. In this first post, we’ll cover general CV tips relevant to all finance professionals. In the next two instalments, we’ll dive deeper into: Transactional Finance CVs – how to highlight your experience in roles such as purchase ledger, sales ledger, and credit control. Part-Qualified Finance CVs – how to position yourself for progression while studying towards your qualifications. Stay tuned for practical advice and real-world insights to help your CV rise to the top of the pile. 🕒 First Impressions MatterRecruiters and hiring managers typically spend less than 30 seconds scanning a CV. That means your CV needs to immediately communicate relevance, professionalism, and potential. A clean layout, clear structure, and tailored content can make the difference between landing an interview or being passed over. 🔍 Specialist Skillsets Are in DemandFinance roles today go far beyond number-crunching. Employers want professionals who understand how finance supports wider business goals. Whether it’s streamlining reporting, implementing new systems, or driving cost efficiencies, your CV should highlight the tangible impact you’ve made. This is your chance to showcase your value-add—what makes you different from the next candidate. Use metrics where possible to quantify your achievements and make them memorable. 📍 Standing Out in YorkshireYorkshire is home to a diverse range of industries, from advanced manufacturing and engineering to professional services and digital tech. This diversity creates exciting opportunities—but also fierce competition. To stand out, your CV should reflect sector-specific experience and transferable skills. Whether you’ve worked in a fast-paced SME or a large corporate environment, highlight how your background aligns with the needs of the region’s employers. 📊 Business Acumen is a MustFinance professionals are increasingly expected to contribute to strategic decision-making. Roles in FP&A, commercial finance, and business partnering are on the rise, and employers want candidates who can offer insight—not just information. Your CV should reflect your ability to influence outcomes. Have you helped drive revenue growth? Supported investment decisions? Improved forecasting accuracy? These are the stories that resonate with hiring managers. 📈 Show a Clear Story of ProgressionRecruiters look for signs of growth and development. A strong CV doesn’t just list job titles—it explains the “why” behind each move. Did you step into a leadership role? Take on a new challenge? Gain exposure to a different sector? Even lateral moves can be powerful if they show a deliberate effort to build your skillset. Make sure your CV tells a cohesive story of your career journey. 🔑 Final ThoughtsIn Yorkshire’s fast-moving industries, a sharp, well-crafted CV is your key to unlocking new opportunities. It’s not just about listing experience—it’s about showing impact, adaptability, and commercial value from the very first glance. Whether you’re actively job hunting or just exploring your options, now is the time to invest in your CV. ​Visit Our Candidate Advice Pages HereLooking for your next career move in finance or accountancy? At Sharp Consultancy, our expertise lies in matching your potential with the perfect temporary, interim, or permanent position. With a well-established presence in Leeds and Sheffield, our seasoned team of consultants extends their services across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't wait for opportunity to knock, reach out to us TODAY and let's chart your career path together. ​

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Lee Sweeney
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Lee Sweeney

Executive Director

Educated at Chesterfield Boy’s School in Derbyshire, Lee Sweeney's career commenced with a solid foundation in retail banking. He spent eight years at LloydsTSB Bank Plc, assuming various sales and junior management roles. In 1996, Lee embarked on a new chapter with Sharp Consultancy, dedicating 28 years of service (and counting!), including the establishment of the Leeds office in 2000.

Lee specialises in Professional Practice & Private Equity, encompassing a comprehensive scope of disciplines:

  • • Mergers & Acquisitions

  • • Corporate Finance

  • • Transaction Services

  • • Business Restructuring & Insolvency

  • • Audit and Taxation

  • • Investment and Portfolio Management within Private Equity

  • • Investment & Specialist Banking

His geographical focus spans West and North Yorkshire and Manchester, where he has built and nurtured long-standing client relationships.

Colleagues and clients often describe Lee as helpful, professional, and inspiring. These attributes have been pivotal in fostering trust and delivering exceptional service within his field.

Outside of professional life, Lee is an avid fly fisherman, a passion that allows him to connect with nature and unwind. He is an avid car enthusiast, having attended events like the Goodwood Revival and enjoying weekend drives in his Porsche Boxster. His love for the outdoors extends to walking, particularly in the breathtaking Langdale region of The Lake District, and cycling, which keeps him active and invigorated.

When not indulging in these hobbies, you will often find Lee and his wife hosting dinner parties for friends and family.

Lee enjoying his holidays and hobbies.
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    ​I have no hesitation in recommending Lee to anyone in my network. In particular, he has kept in touch with me over the last 5/6 years being a source of impartial advise when needed.

    Adam
    Adam
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    ​Lee is the consummate professional and very personable. He was helpful and understanding throughout the whole process and I appreciated his openness and integrity which gave great confidence in every conversation.

    Daniel
    Daniel
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    ​Lee has been absolutely fantastic throughout the hiring process. I have a somewhat unusual background for a role in M&A, but he immediately picked up on my tremendous drive to do all the things necessary for a role. The depth of experience and love of the job enables Lee to know what firms want / need from candidates beyond the standard cookie-cutter approach which 99% of headhunters use. From a personal perspective, Lee has spent a lot of time getting to know me and helping me think about how to present myself at interview. Absolutely top-notch.

    Investment Banker, Relocating from London
    Investment Banker, Relocating from London
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    ​Whenever I’ve needed to recruit at a senior level, Lee has always been my first call—and has been for over 10 years. He and his team consistently do an outstanding job for Azets, and the calibre of candidates he introduces is exceptional. Lee has been with us every step of the way on our growth journey. His combination of proactivity, approachability, and deep sector expertise means he always finds the right person. He truly understands our culture and what drives our business, and that ‘insider’ knowledge has consistently led to great results. I would highly recommend Lee to any business looking to recruit key individuals who will make a genuine difference. ​

    Russell Turner - Managing Director
    Russell Turner - Managing Director
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    In my capacity of recruiting and growing our team, Lee and his team have been involved in a number of pivotal senior appointments as well as a steady flow of very credible candidates at all levels both in response to recruitment need, but often out of courtesy in respect of strong candidates who they think would be a good fit for our teams. I think the trust in the relationship is both ways given 2 of the Sharp senior team have encouraged their children to join Azets to begin their accountancy careers!

    Chris Butt - National Head of Audit
    Chris Butt - National Head of Audit
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    ​We have worked with Sharp Consultancy and Lee Sweeney for over 20 years. Whenever we have a role available at Park Place, Lee is our first port of call. He knows the types of candidates that are most suitable for us and, given his unmatched coverage of the Yorkshire market, does a great job of filtering the list down to the best candidates based on our specific criteria. He is also extremely proactive, bringing us exceptional candidates even when we are not necessarily in the market, but still keen to be introduced to great people.

    Ben Peacock - Partner
    Ben Peacock - Partner