1. Challenge:
MCoBeauty, a dynamic beauty brand, was navigating a crucial phase of market penetration and expansion in the Americas. To support their growth ambitions, they partnered with LS International to identify a Finance Director for the Americas. This individual needed to lead the financial function with agility and a hands-on approach, building the department from the ground up while adapting to the challenges of working in a multinational organization. Given that the direct manager, the CFO, was based in Australia, communication was particularly challenging, requiring a candidate capable of working independently without constant oversight, and acting as the financial expert in the region.
2. Profile Needed:
The Finance Director needed to possess the following key attributes:
- Hands-on leadership: Ability to build and manage the financial function from scratch.
- Agility and drive: Capacity to lead financial strategies during a phase of hypergrowth and market expansion.
- Independence: Self-sufficiency to operate without constant supervision, particularly given the remote nature of the direct reporting line.
- Multinational experience: Proven ability to navigate the complexities of working in a global organization with different regional dynamics.
Key requirements included:
– Experience in financial planning and strategy in a multinational context
– Deep technical knowledge of financial management
– Strong ability to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving company
– Proven track record in leading financial functions in high-growth organizations
3. The Search Process:
LS International conducted a rigorous search process, interviewing over 90 candidates. The search focused on identifying candidates with the right combination of technical expertise, multinational experience, and the agility required to thrive in a hypergrowth environment. Many candidates lacked the leadership drive needed for a role in such a dynamic organization.
Through a thorough assessment process, including multiple rounds of interviews, LS International identified a standout candidate who demonstrated exceptional potential. This individual had experience building the financial planning function for Ferver Tree, a well-known British beverage company, in the USA, showcasing a perfect blend of technical knowledge and multinational corporate experience.
4. The Outcome:
MCoBeauty selected a candidate with deep experience in multinational financial planning, particularly in the U.S. market. This individual’s background in leading financial strategy for Ferver Tree provided the hands-on expertise needed to build MCoBeauty’s financial function from the ground up while aligning with the company’s goal of hypergrowth in the U.S.
Key Learnings:
- The search process underscored the importance of identifying candidates who can balance technical excellence with the agility required in high-growth, multinational settings.
- The need for self-sufficiency in leadership roles was critical, particularly in a global organization with remote reporting lines.
- A thorough understanding of both local and international market dynamics was crucial in identifying the ideal candidate.
Looking Ahead:
The successful placement of the Finance Director strengthens MCoBeauty’s leadership team at a critical point in its expansion into the U.S. market. This individual will play a pivotal role in shaping the financial strategy and supporting the company’s growth trajectory. The role offers tremendous opportunities for growth as MCoBeauty continues to revolutionize the U.S. beauty market.
At LS International, we specialize in connecting companies with exceptional talent in the consumer industry. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your executive search objectives.
