The role of Chief Financial Officer has fundamentally evolved in recent years. CFOs are no longer only guardians of financial reporting and compliance. Today, they are strategic partners, responsible for growth forecasting, risk management, technology adoption, and operational transformation. For CEOs, hiring a CFO is therefore both a high-stakes decision and a vital investment in organisational resilience.
Recent data confirms this shift. According to FTI Consulting’s UK Deep Dive report for 2025, 73% of UK CFOs expect revenue growth of at least 10% over the next twelve months. Meanwhile 86% intend to enhance forecasting accuracy, and 88% are increasing investment in financial technology. Salary surveys further illustrate the premium now commanded by seasoned CFOs. National average salary ranges in 2025 span from £100,000 to £364,000,
depending on region, sector, and company size. In London, Glassdoor
reports average CFO base pay of around £214,800, with the upper percentile nearing £320,000. Meanwhile, in Wales, CFO salaries generally run lower, typically between £80,000 and £140,000, reflecting regional cost structures and fewer large, listed corporations.
For CEOs facing a CFO appointment or transition, a rigorous approach is essential to secure maximum impact. Below are key considerations:
1. Define the CFO Mandate with Clarity
Begin by determining whether the CFO role is needed chiefly for operational oversight, strategic transformation, regulatory compliance, or a combination of those. Clear delineation of responsibilities, such as forecasting, margin optimisation, technology enablement, and investor relations, enables the evaluation of candidates against measurable business outcomes rather than job descriptions.
2. Assess Market Compensation and Regional Differences
Given the broad salary ranges, understanding what comparable organisations in your region offer is crucial. London-based CFO positions demand a higher remuneration band than those in Wales or the Midlands. Failing to align compensation with market expectations will risk losing preferred candidates late in the recruitment process.
3. Prioritise Strategic and Technological Competencies
The modern CFO must be fluent not only in financial management but also in data analytics, digital finance platforms, automation, and financial modelling. The ability to lead cross-functional transformation, align financial strategy with ESG or sustainability metrics, and manage stakeholder expectations are increasingly expected competencies.
4. Examine Retention Drivers and Succession Potential
CFO turnover rates are rising. A survey in 2024 reported that 41% of business leaders attribute specialist CFO departures to promotion into CEO roles. To mitigate risk, look for leaders who offer both immediate delivery capability and the potential to grow into broader executive leadership. Also commit to retention strategies, professional development, and a culture of accountability.
5. Manage Transition and Onboarding Strategically
Replacing a CFO or installing a new one must be treated as an executive transition, not simply a hire. Ensure handover of financial controls, risk registers, understanding of cashflow dynamics, regulatory obligations, and relationships with external stakeholders (auditors, banks, investors). Plan for the first 90 days with clear performance metrics and engagement with the rest of the leadership team.
The CFO market in the UK is more dynamic than ever. The demands placed upon finance leaders are expanding; strategically, technologically, and commercially. CEOs who approach CFO recruitment with strategic clarity, regional awareness, and a view to both immediate and long-term impact will secure leaders who can steward growth, stability, and transformation.
If you are preparing to appoint a CFO or considering a transition within your financial leadership, City Executive Search can provide the market intelligence, access to exceptional candidates, and advisory support you need to make a decisive, effective hiring decision.
Contact City Executive Search to access exceptional CFO talent prepared to influence organisational success and sustainable growth.
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