Financial Controller for a Multi-Entity Property Developer

The company carries out property transactions and new builds through a group of associated legal entities. Its senior team has worked in a number of countries and expects finance to be of the same standard. The team handles reports, tax regulations, cash plans, budgets, and offers assistance with daily business decisions. The firm is locally based, but senior talks are often in English. The new controller needed to be able to speak proficiently while keeping a close eye on the details behind every figure. The role also connected local finance work to group needs from outside the country on an annual basis.

One of the primary tests in a search that also called for in-depth finance knowledge was clear English. The ideal candidate needed to be able to convey unfamiliar concepts in such a way that a team with broad global experience would understand. A formal accounting background and experience in property or other multi-entity environments were also important. The role involved reporting, cash flow, budgets, controls, and working closely with teams outside of finance. As the search was confidential, the early conversations could not disclose all the facts about the company. Few local people had the strong sector skills, sound accounts, and level of English the team wanted.

Keller Executive Search compiled a short list of senior finance staff in property and related fields. Video calls tested financial depth, spoken English, career aims, and compatibility with a global work style. Those who passed the brief then went through several rounds, including talks at the firm’s local offices. There were tests at every stage on reports, group accounts, judgement, and the ability to make finance clear to others. Each round used the same tests, so as to keep the review process fair. Then two senior leaders met with the top person and agreed that the style and the skill were both right.

After a thorough review and final discussions with senior leaders, the firm appointed a Financial Controller. The person chosen had good accounts, was a clear speaker, and was involved in the property business. Shared support from the senior team gave the offer a solid base and removed last-minute uncertainty. The controller placed by Keller Executive Search showed excellent spoken English skills and an aptitude for detail across the core functions. The hire added financial expertise to the business that matched its global outlook and complex group requirements.