The challenge
The provider needed to establish financial processes, invoicing, governance and reporting, and to work with commissioners so it could invoice accurately and receive payment from day one. The requirement was business critical: without immediate financial leadership, mobilisation of the new service would be delayed.
The complexity
Initial contact was made on a Thursday afternoon, with the expectation that the successful candidate would be appointed within days rather than weeks. The organisation had never engaged an interim executive before, but because of an established relationship with one of Oakmyre’s trusted partners, it was comfortable relying on our judgement to deliver at pace.
Oakmyre’s approach
Rather than a broad market search, Oakmyre immediately contacted two trusted interim Finance Directors with whom strong relationships already existed. Both understood the urgency and were prepared to rearrange commitments. A streamlined process saw both candidates interviewed on Saturday morning, with a decision made the same day.
The outcome
The appointment was confirmed over the weekend and the successful interim Finance Director commenced on Monday morning. The organisation successfully established the financial infrastructure required for its new NHS contract, and the client expressed genuine appreciation for the speed, flexibility and quality of support, including the willingness to work over a weekend.
Key learning
- Urgency doesn’t have to compromise quality when trusted relationships already exist.
- Interim leadership creates immediate capability when timing is critical.
- Strong professional networks provide access to proven leaders far more quickly than traditional methods.
- Preparation creates pace: the ability to mobilise within days is built through years of trusted relationships.