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  • Why a NED Might Be the Smartest Decision You Make This Year
    2025/06/15

    Hello and welcome to Boardroom Breakthroughs—the podcast where we explore how leadership, strategy, and expertise drive growth in today’s competitive business world. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and in this episode, we’re diving into a topic that can change the trajectory of your business—Non-Executive Directors, or NEDs.

    You might be thinking, “Do I really need a NED?” If you’re a founder, a CEO, or part of a growing leadership team—yes, you just might.

    And today, we’re going to explore why bringing in a NED through FD Capital could be the smartest move you make this year.

    [Transition Sound]

    Let’s start with the basics.

    A Non-Executive Director is not involved in your business day-to-day—but that’s exactly why they’re so powerful. NEDs bring independent thinking, fresh perspectives, and decades of high-level experience that can challenge your assumptions, steer your strategy, and help you avoid blind spots.

    They’re there to ask the tough questions, hold management accountable, and make sure your business is growing in a smart, sustainable way.

    Now, here’s where FD Capital comes in.

    FD Capital is a UK-based executive recruitment boutique that specialises in finance and board-level talent. They understand that the right NED isn’t just about experience—it’s about fit, chemistry, and timing.

    They match companies with experienced, commercially-minded NEDs who can add immediate value—whether you’re preparing for investment, navigating a turnaround, scaling operations, or simply trying to level up your boardroom.

    [Client Scenario Segment]

    Let’s paint a picture.

    Imagine you're a founder-led tech company. Things are moving fast—you’ve got product-market fit, revenue is growing, but you’re entering uncharted territory. Suddenly, you need to think like a “real” board. You need guidance on governance, exits, risk, strategy.

    FD Capital can connect you with a seasoned NED who’s done this before—maybe they’ve IPO’d, raised VC rounds, or steered a company through an acquisition. They’ve sat in your seat—and they know what’s coming next.

    [Expertise Highlight]

    FD Capital’s network of NEDs is seriously impressive. We’re talking people with backgrounds in finance, private equity, digital transformation, ESG, M&A, and more.

    And because they also specialise in fractional and part-time finance roles, they really understand the needs of lean, agile businesses—not just giant corporations.

    They also help you understand what kind of NED you really need—strategic vs. governance-focused, industry-specific vs. generalist, hands-on vs. high-level oversight.

    [Mini Testimonial or Quote Suggestion]

    Here’s a quote from one of their clients:

    “Our NED from FD Capital completely transformed how our board works. We now have real accountability and strategic clarity—and it’s showing in our performance.”

    That’s the kind of impact you want.

    [Call to Action]

    So, if you’re ready to sharpen your strategy, strengthen your board, and unlock new levels of growth—go check out FD Capital’s Non-Executive Director services at
    👉 www.fdcapital.co.uk/ned

    It’s time to stop flying solo. Add a trusted, experienced voice to your boardroom—and watch the difference it makes.

    [Outro Music Fades In]

    That’s it for this episode of Boardroom Breakthroughs. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this with someone who needs to hear it. And remember—great businesses aren’t built alone.

    Until next time, stay smart, stay strategic.

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    1 分
  • Why the Right NED Could Change Everything
    2025/06/06

    Hey there, and welcome back to FD Capital— where we talk strategy, leadership, and the future of business. I’m your host, and today we’re diving into a topic that doesn't always make the headlines — but might just be one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make for your business.

    I’m talking about non-executive directors, or NEDs — and more importantly, how to find the right ones.

    So if you're a founder, CEO, investor, or even part of a growing startup looking to take things to the next level… this one’s for you.

    Let me introduce you to NED Capital — a specialist recruitment firm helping businesses across the UK and beyond build stronger boards, smarter companies, and better outcomes.

    [Quick transition sting]

    Host:
    So here’s the deal — we all know a good CEO can steer the ship, but a great board? That’s your navigation system. And non-executive directors play a key role in that. They bring independence, experience, and often a healthy dose of challenge that keeps your business focused and future-ready.

    But not all NEDs are created equal — and that’s where NED Capital comes in.

    They’re not just a recruiter. NED Capital is a strategic partner for organisations looking to bring in high-quality, high-impact non-executives — whether that’s for governance, growth, digital transformation, or even preparing for an exit or IPO.

    [Slight pause]

    What I love about NED Capital is their tailored approach. They don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re a scale-up, a family business, a PE-backed portfolio company, or a PLC — they understand that the boardroom needs nuance.

    They take the time to understand the DNA of your business, your current leadership team, and your future ambitions — then match you with candidates who bring exactly what you need: experience, insight, networks, and yes… sometimes, a bit of healthy boardroom friction.

    [Music or ambient transition]

    Host:
    Think about it — are you trying to scale rapidly but lack digital experience at board level? Are you preparing to raise funding and need a heavyweight finance profile to build investor confidence? Or maybe you're trying to future-proof your board with greater diversity of thought and background?

    NED Capital has helped companies across industries — tech, healthcare, consumer goods, fintech, and more — find directors who’ve “been there, done that” and are ready to do it again.

    And here's the thing: these aren’t passive, ceremonial appointments. NED Capital focuses on value-adding NEDs who roll up their sleeves and make a real impact — challenging assumptions, unlocking connections, and guiding leadership when it matters most.

    [Short pause]

    Now, if you’re listening and thinking “Okay, how do I even start this process?” — the answer is simple: head over to nedcapital.co.uk.

    Their site is clean, informative, and built for busy professionals. You can explore their services, see client case studies, and even connect for a confidential conversation about what your board needs now — and in the future.

    [Outro music starts to fade in]

    Host:
    So whether you're building your first board or evolving a seasoned one, the right non-executive director could be the catalyst for your next phase of growth. And with NED Capital in your corner, you don’t just get recruitment — you get strategy, insight, and access to a seriously impressive network.

    That’s it for today’s episode — short, sharp, and all about building better boards.

    Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review if you found this helpful, and of course — visit nedcapital.co.uk to learn more.

    Until next time, keep leading, keep growing, and as always — stay curious.

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    1 分
  • Strategic Finance Starts Here – Unlocking Growth with the Right Financial Controller
    2025/06/04

    Hey everyone, welcome back to The Smarter Scale Show—your go-to podcast for navigating the toughest parts of business growth. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today we’re talking about a hire that can transform your company’s trajectory.

    We’re diving into the Financial Controller role—why it matters, when to hire one, and how to make sure you find the right person. And spoiler alert: this isn’t a DIY job. That’s why we’re highlighting a specialist partner in this space—Accountancy Capital, who are doing brilliant work in Financial Controller recruitment.

    Let’s get into it.

    📊 Segment 1: More Than Numbers – The Strategic Role of a Financial Controller

    Host:
    Most people think of finance as a cost centre, but in truth, it's a strategic engine—if you have the right people in place.

    The Financial Controller is at the heart of that engine. They bring discipline to your numbers, yes—but more than that, they bring structure, strategy, and insight.

    Think cash flow management, financial forecasting, margin analysis, and building out the internal processes that keep everything running smoothly. This person helps leadership make data-driven decisions, not guesses.

    Without a strong Financial Controller, you risk building your business on shaky foundations. With one? You build confidence, clarity, and the ability to scale without chaos.

    🧩 Segment 2: Why Hiring One Isn’t Straightforward

    Host:
    Here’s the tricky part—finding the right Financial Controller is not easy.

    You need someone who’s technically excellent, but also a cultural fit. Someone who can handle the day-to-day but also think big picture. That blend of precision and commercial instinct? It’s rare.

    This is where Accountancy Capital shines.

    🎯 Segment 3: How Accountancy Capital Simplifies the Process

    Host:
    Accountancy Capital focuses solely on recruiting finance professionals—and they’re particularly strong when it comes to Financial Controllers.

    Here’s what sets them apart:

    1. Specialisation – They know what a good FC looks like, because finance is all they do.
    2. Strategic Guidance – They help you define the role, understand market expectations, and even benchmark salaries.
    3. Pre-vetted Talent – They don’t just send CVs—they introduce candidates who are ready to hit the ground running and add value from day one.

    Whether you’re hiring your first in-house finance lead or upgrading your current team, they’ll help you find someone with the right skills and mindset to grow with your business.

    📈 Segment 4: The Signs It’s Time to Hire

    Host:
    So, how do you know it’s time to hire a Financial Controller? Here are some clear signals:

    • You’ve got revenue, but you don’t have robust financial systems.
    • Your board or investors are asking for more accurate reporting.
    • You’re scaling quickly and want to avoid operational blind spots.
    • You want to move from outsourced to in-house finance—or need someone to manage the external teams more effectively.

    If any of that rings true, it’s time to speak with someone who knows this space.

    📢 Segment 5: Wrap-Up + Call to Action

    Host:
    If there’s one thing we know, it’s this: great businesses are built on great decisions—and great decisions require great financial visibility.

    Ready to find that person? Head over to accountancycapital.co.uk and explore how their Financial Controller recruitment service can help. Tell them The Smarter Scale Show sent you.

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    1 分
  • Beauty Unveiled: Exploring SP Beauty's Aesthetic Excellence
    2024/11/24

    In this episode of "Beauty Unveiled," we delve into the world of SP Beauty, a premier provider of aesthetic treatments and mobile hairdressing services across the East and West Midlands. Join us as we explore their range of services, commitment to enhancing natural beauty, and the personalized care they offer to clients in areas like Tamworth, Cannock, Aldridge, and Walsall.

    Episode Outline:

    1. Introduction
      • Welcome listeners to "Beauty Unveiled."
      • Introduce the episode's focus on SP Beauty and their contributions to the aesthetics industry in the Midlands.
      • Brief overview of SP Beauty's mission to enhance natural beauty through expert, non-invasive cosmetic solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. ⁠Spbeauty⁠
    2. About SP Beauty
      • Discuss the founding of SP Beauty and its growth in the East and West Midlands.
      • Highlight the areas they serve, including Tamworth, Cannock, Aldridge, and Walsall.
      • Emphasize their belief in enhancing natural beauty through expert, non-invasive cosmetic solutions tailored to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. ⁠Spbeauty⁠
    3. Services Offered
      • Aesthetic Treatments:
      • Mobile Hairdressing Services:
    4. Client-Centered Approach
      • Discussion on SP Beauty's commitment to providing high-quality, professional care tailored to individual needs.
      • Emphasis on their consultation process to fully understand clients' goals and skin needs, enabling the creation of treatment plans that align perfectly with expectations and lifestyle. ⁠Spbeauty⁠
    5. Recent Articles and Insights (3 minutes)
      • Highlight recent articles from SP Beauty's blog, covering topics such as hairdressing, mobile hairdressing, wedding hair, and popular treatments including anti-wrinkle injections, fillers, and aesthetics. ⁠Spbeauty⁠
    6. Conclusion and Contact Information
      • Encourage listeners to explore SP Beauty's range of services and book a consultation to start their journey to a radiant, youthful appearance.
      • Provide contact information:
      • Thank listeners for tuning in and invite them to join the next episode of "Beauty Unveiled."

    Outro: "Thank you for joining us on this episode of 'Beauty Unveiled.' Stay tuned for more insights into the world of beauty and aesthetics. Until next time, embrace your natural beauty and let it shine."

    To learn more about SP Beauty visit their website.

    ⁠SP Beauty⁠ Wrinkle Reduction Tamworth

    ⁠SP Beauty⁠ Wrinkle Reduction Lichfield

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    1 分
  • Untitled Episode
    2024/10/21

    Host: Welcome to "Executive Insights," the podcast where we explore the latest trends, strategies, and challenges in recruiting top-tier executives. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today, we’re diving into an increasingly popular and transformative topic: recruiting remote CFOs—yes, that’s right, Chief Financial Officers who work 100% remotely.

    Whether you’re a growing business looking to hire your first remote CFO, or a financial executive considering a remote role, we’ve got expert insights, best practices, and real-world stories to share. Let’s jump right in!

    [Music fades out]

    Host: Remote work has seen explosive growth over the last few years, and for many companies, it’s here to stay. What started as a necessity during the pandemic has evolved into a strategic advantage, and finance is no exception. In fact, we’re seeing more and more companies, from startups to established enterprises, recruiting CFOs who work entirely remotely.

    But why the shift? Traditionally, the CFO has been seen as a role that requires a physical presence—after all, they’re managing the company’s financial health, sitting in on leadership meetings, and building close relationships with stakeholders. However, technology, evolving work cultures, and the globalization of talent have changed the game.

    Today, remote CFOs can provide the same strategic financial leadership from anywhere in the world. Companies are realizing that location is no longer a barrier to accessing top-tier finance talent, and the pool of candidates is now global.

    In this episode, we’ll explore the benefits of recruiting a remote CFO, the challenges you might face, and how to find the right person for the job.

    Host: So, why are companies embracing the remote CFO model? Let’s break down a few of the key benefits.

    Hiring remotely means you’re no longer limited to candidates who live in your city—or even your country. This opens the door to a much larger pool of talent. You can find CFOs with niche expertise, deep industry experience, or specialized skills that might be hard to come by locally.

    [Soundbite from a company founder]: "Finding a CFO with experience in scaling tech startups was a challenge in our area. By expanding our search globally, we found the perfect fit who had successfully scaled three companies—something we couldn’t have done if we had focused only on our local market."

    Host: Another big advantage is cost efficiency. Depending on your company’s location, hiring remotely can allow you to attract top-level talent at a more affordable rate. A CFO working from a region with a lower cost of living might not command the same salary as one based in an expensive city, without sacrificing the level of expertise.

    Not to mention, you’ll save on relocation costs, office space, and other overhead associated with bringing someone into the office full-time.

    A remote CFO offers flexibility. As your business grows or faces challenges, your CFO can scale their involvement up or down without the logistical constraints of being tied to a single location. This flexibility is especially beneficial for startups and rapidly growing companies that need to adapt quickly.

    Host: Of course, while the benefits are clear, recruiting a remote CFO comes with its own set of challenges. It’s not just about finding someone with the right financial skills; it’s about ensuring they can thrive in a remote environment and align with your company’s culture.

    One of the biggest concerns with remote leadership roles is communication. CFOs are key members of the executive team, often working closely with the CEO, board members, and department heads.

    ⁠FD Capital⁠ offers Remote CFO Recruitment.

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    1 分
  • Executive Insights: Recruiting Part-Time Finance Directors
    2024/10/21

    Host: Welcome to "Executive Insights," the show where we break down the trends, challenges, and strategies shaping the recruitment of top-level talent. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today’s episode is all about a growing trend in the finance world—the recruitment of part-time Finance Directors.

    Whether you're a business leader looking to strengthen your financial team or a finance professional considering a part-time role, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Let's get into it!

    [Music fades out]

    Host: When most people think of a Finance Director, they picture someone who’s deeply embedded in the day-to-day operations of a company, keeping a sharp eye on budgets, forecasting, and financial strategy. Traditionally, this has been a full-time, high-pressure role. But in recent years, the rise of part-time and fractional Finance Directors has transformed the recruitment landscape.

    Businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—are realizing that they don’t always need a full-time Finance Director, but they do need someone with the expertise and strategic thinking to guide them through complex financial decisions. This is where part-time or fractional Finance Directors come in.

    But how do you recruit the right candidate for such a critical role on a part-time basis? Today, we’ll unpack the challenges and opportunities, and hear from industry experts who’ve navigated this space successfully.

    Host: So, why are companies turning to part-time Finance Directors? There are a few key reasons.

    First, it’s cost-effective. Hiring a full-time Finance Director can be expensive, especially for smaller businesses that may not require daily financial oversight. By bringing in someone part-time, companies can access top-tier expertise without the full-time salary.

    Second, many businesses are growing more comfortable with flexible, remote, and part-time work. Post-pandemic, the traditional 9-to-5, in-office setup has become less relevant. Financial professionals can work flexibly, delivering high-value insights without being physically present every day.

    Finally, the growing complexity of financial regulations and market conditions means that even smaller organizations need high-level financial strategy. A part-time Finance Director can help them with key decisions—whether that’s fundraising, navigating cash flow challenges, or planning for growth.

    "The companies that approach me for part-time work often have big ambitions, but they don’t need a full-time CFO just yet. What they need is targeted advice on cash flow, investment strategy, and compliance—things that can be done on a fractional basis without losing the impact."

    Host: Despite the benefits, recruiting part-time Finance Directors isn’t without its challenges. Let’s talk about a few key hurdles that businesses and recruiters face.

    A part-time Finance Director needs to hit the ground running. They often work with companies that need immediate solutions and fast results. This means recruiters must look for candidates with not only technical skills but also deep industry experience, a strategic mindset, and the ability to manage change.

    "When you're hiring part-time, there's no time for a steep learning curve. You need someone who understands your industry’s challenges and can offer insights from day one."

    Host: Another key challenge is setting clear expectations. A part-time Finance Director's role can be very different from that of a full-time one. How much time will they be expected to dedicate? Will they be involved in day-to-day operations, or focus solely on long-term strategy? It's crucial that both the company and the candidate are on the same page about the scope of work.

    ⁠FD Capital⁠ are leaders in Part-Time FD Recruitment

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    1 分
  • Decoding the C-Suite: Understanding Executive Leadership Roles
    2024/10/19

    Welcome to today’s episode of Business Unboxed, the podcast where we break down complex business concepts into simple, actionable insights. I'm your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today, we’re diving into the heart of corporate leadership—the C-Suite. You’ve probably heard the term “C-Suite” thrown around, but what does it actually mean? And who are the key players in this all-important leadership team? Stick around, and we’ll break it all down for you.

    Alright, let’s get into it. So, what is the C-Suite?

    The C-Suite is short for “Chief Suite” or “C-Level Suite” and refers to a corporation’s top executives whose titles typically begin with “Chief.” These leaders are responsible for making high-level decisions that shape the strategy and vision of the company. Think of them as the strategic brain behind the organization, with each member specializing in a different aspect of the business. The C-Suite is responsible for steering the company, making the big decisions, and ensuring that every department works in harmony toward achieving the overall goals.

    But, who exactly makes up the C-Suite? Let’s go through some of the main roles.

    The CEO is probably the most well-known member of the C-Suite, and for a good reason. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the overall success of the business. They set the vision and strategy for the company, often serving as the public face in press releases, interviews, and meetings with investors. While the CEO might not get into the nitty-gritty of day-to-day operations, they are responsible for making the final calls on major decisions.

    Key Responsibilities:

    Next up is the Chief Financial Officer. The CFO’s role is all about the numbers. They manage the company’s finances, from budgeting and forecasting to managing cash flow and ensuring regulatory compliance. In short, the CFO ensures that the company is financially healthy.

    Key Responsibilities:

    The COO is often considered the CEO’s right-hand person, focusing on the day-to-day operations of the company. While the CEO sets the overall strategy, the COO ensures that the business runs smoothly, overseeing processes, production, and operational efficiency. You might think of the COO as the one who turns the CEO’s vision into reality.

    Key Responsibilities:

    In today’s digital age, the role of the Chief Marketing Officer is more important than ever. The CMO is responsible for how the company presents itself to the world, including branding, advertising, and customer experience. They lead the charge in marketing strategies that help drive sales and build the company’s reputation.

    Key Responsibilities:

    With technology playing a central role in nearly every industry today, the CTO’s job is crucial. The Chief Technology Officer oversees the company’s technological needs and future tech innovation. Whether it’s managing IT systems or leading the development of new products, the CTO is the tech visionary.

    Key Responsibilities:

    While the CTO focuses on technology innovation and product development, the CIO is all about information and IT management. The Chief Information Officer ensures that the company’s information technology and systems support its business goals, managing data, communication, and security infrastructure.

    Key Responsibilities:

    People are a company’s greatest asset, and the Chief Human Resources Officer knows this well. The CHRO is responsible for everything related to the company’s workforce, from recruiting and training to employee relations and benefits. They ensure that the organization has the talent and culture needed to succeed.

    ⁠FD Capital⁠ are leading C Suite Recruiters.

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    2 分
  • The Financial Fix: Navigating the World of Part-Time CFOs in London
    2024/10/10

    Welcome to The Financial Fix, the podcast that dives deep into the world of finance and explores the trends, insights, and innovations shaping businesses today. I’m your host, Adrian, and in this episode, we’re going to talk about something that’s been gaining a lot of attention in London’s bustling business scene — Part-Time CFOs. What are they, why are they in demand, and how can they be the secret weapon for growing businesses? Let’s find out.

    So, what exactly is a part-time CFO, and why are more businesses, especially in London, turning to them? Well, today we’ll break down what this role entails, and hear from a few experts who can provide some real-world insight into why this trend is skyrocketing.

    Let’s start with the basics. The role of the Chief Financial Officer, or CFO, has always been seen as critical to businesses, large and small. A CFO oversees the financial health of a company, making strategic decisions on everything from budgeting to cash flow management, fundraising, and long-term financial planning. Traditionally, companies would bring on a full-time CFO, but that’s not always feasible, especially for startups or small to medium enterprises (SMEs) where budgets are tight.

    Cue soundbite of traffic in London, emphasizing the bustling city

    In London, where the cost of doing business can be particularly high, part-time CFOs offer an appealing alternative. They give companies the opportunity to access top-tier financial expertise without the full-time commitment and cost. But why is this concept gaining so much traction in the capital? Let’s dive into the reasons behind the trend.

    Host One of the primary drivers of the part-time CFO model in London is flexibility. Startups and growing businesses often face fluctuating financial needs. A part-time CFO allows companies to scale their financial leadership as they grow. Here’s Sam, a founder of a tech startup in Shoreditch, on why he opted for a part-time CFO.

    Clip: Interview with Sam, Founder of a Tech Startup"We were growing fast, but the numbers were getting more complex. I knew I needed someone with serious financial chops, but we didn’t have the budget to hire a full-time CFO. A part-time CFO gave us exactly what we needed — expertise without the huge salary overhead. It’s been a game-changer."

    Host As Sam pointed out, part-time CFOs are not just about saving money; they’re about providing access to experience. Many of these financial leaders have worked for major corporations or have specialized knowledge in areas like M&A, international expansion, or raising venture capital, which is incredibly valuable to a growing company.

    And speaking of experience, let’s talk about the kinds of challenges part-time CFOs are particularly good at handling in a city like London.

    Host London is a global financial hub, which means businesses here often face complex challenges, such as managing international operations, dealing with foreign currencies, and navigating Brexit-related regulations. These are areas where part-time CFOs, many of whom have years of experience in multinational corporations, can really shine.

    I recently spoke with Emma, a part-time CFO who has worked with multiple startups in London’s booming fintech sector. She shared some insights into the kind of expertise companies are looking for.

    Clip: Interview with Emma, Part-Time CFO"A lot of companies are looking for someone who can not only handle the day-to-day finances but also provide strategic guidance. For example, I worked with a company that was looking to expand into Europe. Understanding the post-Brexit regulatory environment and how it impacts financial planning was critical.

    To find out more visit ⁠FD Capital ⁠CFO Service.

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    2 分