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Series B | HealthTech
Exec CFO Search
We partnered with Zanda and Dav to support a critical CFO search after engaging two other search firms that were ultimately unsuccessful. From the outset, Dav and the Zanda team stood out through a disciplined, structured, and highly engaged approach.
The search process was exceptionally well run, with a clear framework and weekly meetings that kept us informed of progress, market feedback, and candidate development. Dav not only managed the process rigorously but also actively drove it forward, holding us accountable and ensuring momentum was maintained throughout.
A key differentiator was Dav’s deep understanding of our stage of growth as a start-up/scale-up organization, and what that means in terms of both candidate profile and motivation. This insight, combined with Zanda’s strong network of senior finance leaders with start-up and fundraising experience, resulted in a high-quality and well-aligned candidate slate.
The Process
We began the process by providing Semble with market intelligence on CFO salary benchmarking, alongside how to structure the hiring process and ensure everyone was aligned around the CFO role scope. In addition to technical experience, we prioritised candidates who aligned with Semble’s values-driven and product-focused culture, ensuring the CFO could integrate seamlessly with the founder-led team. We introduced Semble to a CFO in our existing network who wasn’t actively on the market but whose experience aligned strongly with what the business needed. The candidate had previously led finance through high-growth journeys, including taking a team from 30 to 300 people and revenue from £8M to £80M, and had recent experience navigating a shift from growth to profitability in a VC backed marketplace business. While not from a traditional SaaS background, his exposure to recurring revenue models and strategic M&A planning made him a natural fit for Semble’s next phase. His interest was sparked by the mission-led nature of Semble’s product and the opportunity to build in a more scalable, tech-forward environment with a clear path to exit.
We were introduced to Zanda through Smedvig Ventures shortly before closing our Series B. As we prepared for our next stage of growth, it was clear we needed a CFO who could help take us to the next level as we scaled and internationalised. Zanda quickly understood our needs. The search process was efficient, transparent, and well-managed, with regular updates keeping us fully in the loop. The quality of candidates was very strong. We’re thrilled with the CFO we hired, someone who has hit the ground running and become a true strategic partner to the business.
Our successful placement has enabled Semble to confidently move into its next growth phase, with a CFO who has already become a core strategic voice at board level. The placement has strengthened internal financial leadership and ensured the business is well-positioned for international expansion and ongoing investor engagement.
Our successful placement has enabled Semble to confidently move into its next growth phase, with a CFO who has already become a core strategic voice at board level. The placement has strengthened internal financial leadership and ensured the business is well-positioned for international expansion and ongoing investor engagement.
