Finding the Right Fit: Why Understanding Your Finance Team Matters in Recruitment

Recruiting for finance roles isn’t just about matching CVs to job descriptions. The nuances of team dynamics, culture, and future goals all play a role in making long-term, successful hires - and that’s where a more considered approach really matters.

At MacKenzie King, we work closely with businesses to understand not just what the role requires, but how that person will integrate with the wider team. Sometimes, that means helping clients think more broadly about what they really need - not just filling a gap but strengthening the whole department.

When finance professionals leave a role early, it’s rarely because they couldn’t do the job. More often, the issue comes down to mismatched expectations around working style, pace, or company values. That’s why we take time at the beginning to get a clear picture of both the technical and personal sides of a brief.

That could mean looking for someone with experience in a fast-growing SME environment, or a candidate who’s used to working in a more traditional structure with clear reporting lines. It all depends on the business - and having that context makes the hiring process more focused and ultimately, more successful.

We also talk to a lot of clients about how internal processes affect the candidate experience - and sometimes, small improvements can make a big difference. Things like clearer feedback loops, better visibility over next steps, or simply giving candidates a realistic idea of what to expect can all improve hiring outcomes.

On the operational side, many businesses are also exploring digital tools to help reduce admin and increase transparency. For example, using a digital timesheet portal not only streamlines the way contractors log hours, but also helps reduce paperwork and makes approvals more efficient. It’s one of many ways companies are modernising how they manage people - and it can leave a much better impression on new hires too.

Recruitment should never feel rushed or generic. Whether you're replacing someone or creating a new role, understanding how that person will impact the wider business is key.

If you'd like to have a chat about how to approach your next hire - or just want to bounce some ideas around - we’re always happy to talk.