Let’s talk about one of the toughest challenges AIM-listed businesses face: keeping hold of key finance talent. CFOs and FDs aren’t just number crunchers. Their influence spans almost every corner of the business.
Strategy? That’s them. Compliance? They’ve got it covered. Operations? Investor relations? They’re leading the charge there too.
For AIM businesses, these roles are uniquely demanding. Unlike in larger organisations with sprawling finance teams, your leaders often carry responsibilities that would typically be spread across several people. The result? Their expertise is crucial, but the pressure they’re under can be immense.
At Cooper Parry, we’ve spent years working with AIM-listed businesses. We get it. Retaining these all-rounders is about more than offering a competitive salary, it’s about embedding them into your long-term strategy and giving them the tools and support they need to thrive.
A ROLE UNLIKE ANY OTHER
What sets CFOs and FDs in AIM businesses stand out is the sheer breadth of their roles. They’re not just crunching the numbers; they’re shaping the future of your business.
From driving strategic growth plans to navigating AIM-specific regulations, their responsibilities run deep. They’re also building investor confidence, managing operations, and often stepping into roles that go far beyond the typical finance remit.
This adaptability is their greatest asset – but it’s also their toughest challenge. It’s a lot to take on, and burnout becomes a very real risk.
When they leave, it’s not just about filling the vacancy. It’s about finding someone who can adapt to the unique demands of the role, a task that’s easier said than done.
WHY LOSING THEM HURTS YOUR LONG-TERM STRATEGY
When a key finance leader moves on, the ripple effect can shake your entire operation.
Leadership instability makes investors and partners uneasy. Strategic projects stall without their direction. And the cost of finding, onboarding and upskilling a replacement – if you can find someone with the right mix of expertise – can be huge.
Losing them isn’t just disruptive; it can derail your long-term plans.
HOW TO RETAIN THE LEADERS WHO DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD
Retention isn’t just about keeping people; it’s about helping them thrive. The right support can make all the difference. Here’s how:
- Define their role and what success looks like.
- Prioritise clarity. Ensure they’re not stretched so thin that they can’t focus on what really matters.
- Equip them with the right resources. Whether it’s building the right team around them, hiring top advisers or investing in the best digital tools, make sure they’re set up for success.
- Invest in their development. Offer opportunities for personal and professional growth. Create a culture where their contributions are consistently recognised.
It’s also essential to make them feel part of the bigger picture. Show them how they fit into your long-term strategy and let them know their impact goes beyond the day-to-day. A strong, supportive relationship can make all the difference when it comes to retaining top talent.
PARTNERS WHO GET IT
At Cooper Parry, we understand how important it is to keep your finance leaders engaged and supported. We’ve worked with countless AIM-listed businesses, delivering tailored solutions that match their unique structures and challenges.
As a Big 4 alternative, we bring expertise without the red tape. Our award-winning audit and advisory services fit seamlessly into your business, giving you confidence that you’re supported by a team that truly understands your needs.
Whether it’s tackling retention, providing strategic insight, or driving efficiency, we’re here to help your business thrive.
Struggling to keep hold of your key finance talent in your AIM business? Don’t let it hold back your growth. Let’s work together to retain the leaders who keep your business moving forward.
