Executive Search for an Executive Director to Lead Financial and Operational Transformation in a Complex Health Network
The Brief
In early 2020, a large healthcare network, comprising multiple hospitals and specialised health services, sought an Executive Director of Finance & Business Services to support its ongoing transformation. With approximately 15,000 employees and an annual budget of $2.6 billion, the organisation had previously appointed an interim executive to this role. Now, at a pivotal juncture in its recovery journey following a corporate administration phase, the organisation required a permanent appointment to provide stability and strategic direction.
Future Leadership™ was engaged to identify a candidate with both strategic and operational expertise, proven leadership in complex environments, and an understanding of the public health and government sectors. This individual would be expected to navigate the unique challenges of a high-stakes health network and contribute to the organisation’s vision for accountability and performance excellence.
Candidate net Promote 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 rigorous, multi-step search process to ensure the best fit for this vital role, including:
- Targeted National and International Search: Identifying candidates with a background in public and private health services, as well as government organisations across Australia and New Zealand.
- Comprehensive Advertising Campaign: Leveraging print and digital channels to reach a diverse pool of finance and operations executives with experience in complex health or government settings.
- Candidate Screening and Shortlisting: After extensive screening, a carefully curated shortlist was presented, highlighting candidates with a strong record in financial and operational leadership, stakeholder engagement, and change management.
Future Leadership™ collaborated closely with the healthcare network’s executive team to align each stage of the selection process with the network’s strategic goals, ensuring a thorough evaluation of both technical skills and cultural fit.
Emerging Capabilities
Accounting Standards
Skilled in applying established accounting standards to ensure compliance, accuracy, and consistency in financial reporting.
Managerial Finance
Proficient in managing financial resources to support strategic goals, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment decisions.
Financial Statements
Experienced in preparing, interpreting, and analysing financial statements to provide insights into organisational performance.
Certified Public Accounting (CPA)
Qualified in public accounting practices, with expertise in auditing, financial reporting, and tax assessments.
Quantitative Finance
Skilled in using quantitative techniques to analyse financial data, aiding in decision-making for investments and risk management.
The Outcome
Future Leadership™ successfully appointed an Executive Director with extensive experience in both the not-for-profit and public sectors. Known for their leadership across finance, operations, risk, IT, and procurement, the selected candidate brought a transformational mindset and a strong ability to align teams with long-term objectives. Key outcomes included:
- Strategic Financial Leadership: The appointed Executive Director provided valuable insight into sustainable financial management, essential for the healthcare network’s growth.
- Change Management Expertise: Demonstrated skill in leading teams through transition periods, focusing on stability, efficiency, and accountability.
- Broad Operational Oversight: Oversaw finance, IT, and procurement functions, optimising processes to support organisational goals.
Feedback from the Board and senior leadership emphasised the Executive Director’s success in establishing a solid foundation for ongoing operational improvements, contributing significantly to the network’s mission of delivering high-quality healthcare.
