Delivering an Executive Search to Appoint a Chief Financial Officer to Lead Strategic Financial Advice
The Brief
Future Leadership™ was engaged by a central agency within the ACT Government to appoint a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Strategic Finance. This role was pivotal in providing high-level strategic financial advice to the Director-General and Under Treasurer, managing complex financial activities across multiple large and diverse business areas, and ensuring compliance with legislative and governance requirements.
The appointment was driven by the need for exceptional financial stewardship, robust budgetary management, and strategic leadership to support whole-of-government priorities in a unique city-state environment. The CFO would influence policy, oversee reporting for the Executive and independent agencies, and foster collaboration across government. The successful candidate needed proven experience in senior financial executive roles within complex organisations, strong stakeholder engagement skills, and an understanding of public sector governance.
Candiate Net Promoter Score
Future Leadership combines truly personalised relationships with innovative technology solutions to ensure an approachable and efficient process for all our Net Promoter Score across clients, successful candidates and unsuccessful candidates is well above industry standard.
Candidates supported every year
We maintain genuine relationships with past candidates and continue to support them with leadership solutions long term, after they land their role.
Senior Women Appointed since 2002
Over half of the executive search assignments undertaken by our team have resulted in the appointment of outstanding female or LGBTQI+ leaders to high profile roles.
Candidate Retention Rate for 12 months since 2002
Our thorough briefing process and ability to engage passive candidates mean that we go to great lengths to find the right person for the role – long term!
The Process
Future Leadership™ implemented a structured and rigorous executive search methodology, in order to meet the clear and defined scope provided by this public sector department.
- Briefing and engagement
The consultant team engaged with senior stakeholders to understand the strategic priorities, expectations, and future vision for the CFO role. The role description was confirmed, the sensitive management of internal candidates discussed, and candidate capabilities and timelines clarified. The team developed a tailored Capability Framework and prepared an Information for Candidates document to position the role attractively in the market. - Research, Identification, and Candidate Pool Development
Extensive market mapping and identification of potential candidates was undertaken utilising referral partner networks, proprietary databases and targeted research. The consultant team approached potential candidates proactively, including those not actively seeking roles, and managed advertising for transparency. - Candidate Qualification and Assessment
All applicants were screened against the agreed criteria, with the consultant team conducting structured behavioural interviews to assess leadership style, technical expertise, communication skills, and cultural alignment. Detailed candidate shortlist reports were prepared, including evaluative snapshots for client review. - Client Interviews and Facilitation
Future Leadership supported the selection panel with interview logistics, preparing draft questions, and attended the interviews as advisors to ensure transparent and merit-based process aligned with Public Service principles. The lead consultant provided comprehensive feedback to the panel and facilitated decision-making. - Due Diligence and Selection Report
Reference checks and required probity validation was completed for the preferred candidate, and a formal Selection Report was prepared for sign off. Future leadership assisted with the management of the offer and acceptance, supported onboarding, and maintained follow-up contact with both the client and candidate ensure successful integration.
The Outcome
The executive search concluded with the appointment of a highly accomplished senior finance leader whose career reflects depth, versatility, and strategic impact across complex public sector environments. Beginning in professional services and progressing through senior leadership roles in the Australian Taxation Office, the appointee demonstrated exceptional capability in managing large-scale operations, including oversight of thousands of staff and high-volume transactional processes.
Their tenure in the ATO included leading cultural renewal initiatives and risk management programs following significant organisational challenges, showcasing resilience and adaptability. Later, as First Assistant Secretary within the Department of Defence, they shaped financial policy frameworks, consolidated whole-of-organisation financial views, and advised on major investment priorities at the highest levels, including participation in the Chiefs of Service Committee.
This breadth of experience equips the organisation with a CFO who combines technical expertise with strategic foresight and stakeholder influence. The appointment strengthens governance and financial stewardship, enhances reporting accuracy, and positions the Directorate to deliver improved budgetary oversight and informed decision-making.
