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Case study

Suomalainen työ ry

Executive search for a Chief Financial and Operating Officer through a new-generation approach.

Suomalainen työ ry was looking for a Chief Financial and Operating Officer to support the organization's transformation and help clarify its strategy and ways of working. The role combined responsibility for financial management, operational development, and strategic collaboration with the rest of the leadership team. To find the right person for the role, we leveraged our extensive network of emerging leaders and in-depth market knowledge.

As the role was newly established, we worked closely with the client to define the skills, mindset, and potential needed to succeed. Based on this, we conducted a tailored hybrid search, combining targeted executive search with open recruitment. A clearly defined candidate profile, comprehensive candidate mapping, and thorough candidate assessments resulted in a successful appointment.

Suomalainen työ ry

Suomalainen työ ry is a non-profit, politically independent association that carries out socially significant work to promote the appreciation and success of Finnish work.

The association is particularly known for its Key Flag (Avainlippu), Design from Finland, and Finnish Social Enterprise labels. It also supports its member organizations through training, events, research, and up-to-date information, while actively participating in discussions about Finnish work and working life.

Starting Point of the Collaboration

Suomalainen työ ry needed a professional for a broad leadership team role who could combine strong financial expertise, operational development, and strategic collaboration with the organization's management.

The most important factors in selecting a recruitment partner were our network of next-generation leaders and strong market expertise. Previous collaboration had established trust in our ability to successfully complete the process. The competitive overall value of our service also supported the decision.

Before launching the search, it was important to identify which requirements were truly essential for the role. According to the client, we challenged their thinking in a constructive way and helped define a clear leadership profile that could be used to approach potential candidates.

Our Solution

We carried out the recruitment through a targeted executive search, complemented by an open application process and extensive visibility across our own channels, networks, and the most popular recruitment platforms. We supported the client throughout the process, from defining the role to making the final selection.

Defining the role requirements clearly

At the start of the process, we looked beyond the responsibilities of the role to understand the organization's operating environment, goals, and future needs.

This allowed us to focus on more than just candidates' previous job titles or years of experience. Instead, we assessed the skills and qualities needed to succeed in the role and within Suomalainen työ ry's organization.

This careful groundwork gave the entire process a clear direction and ensured that all candidates were evaluated consistently against the same relevant criteria.

Targeted executive search in the right candidate market

With a clear candidate profile in place, we personally approached professionals whose experience and capabilities matched the role. Our extensive network and deep understanding of the talent market helped us reach potential candidates who weren't actively looking for a new job. The open application process also allowed us to connect with professionals seeking new opportunities.

Thorough assessments to support decision-making

We evaluated each candidate's skills, motivation, and suitability against the agreed profile. Before the client's interviews, we provided detailed candidate profiles that brought together the most relevant information in a clear, easy-to-use format.

These candidate profiles received particularly positive feedback. They gave the client a chance to familiarize themselves with each candidate's background and strengths ahead of the interviews, focus on the most important questions, and compare candidates based on the role's requirements.

Clear division of responsibilities and close collaboration

A clear division of responsibilities meant the client had the support of several recruitment specialists throughout the process. Our Recruitment Consultant managed the open recruitment campaign and reviewed applications, while our Executive Search Consultant mapped the talent market and reached out to potential candidates, including those not actively looking for a new role. Our Account Manager stayed closely involved to ensure smooth communication and a positive client experience. Together, the team worked to keep the process moving forward and achieve the best possible outcome.

The client particularly appreciated the regular communication and transparency throughout the process. They always knew how the search was progressing, what the candidate market looked like, and what would happen next.

Results

The collaboration resulted in the successful appointment of a Chief Financial and Operating Officer. A carefully defined candidate profile, targeted executive search, and thorough assessments provided a strong foundation for a successful recruitment.

Our service

Executive Search

Do you need help with a challenging executive recruitment?

Recruiting an executive is one of the most significant hiring decisions an organization can make. The right person can have a major impact on business direction, ways of working, and the development of the entire organization. We would be happy to help you find the right professional and clarify what it truly takes to succeed in the role. Let’s discuss your needs.