This review provides a comprehensive look at the Head of Engagement and Business Improvement role at Fidelity International, designed to help prospective candidates understand the unique advantages and key considerations of this significant opportunity.
About the Opportunity:
Fidelity International is seeking a dynamic and influential Head of Engagement and Business Improvement to join their global CFO function. This permanent position, based in Cannon Street, UK, offers a pivotal role in shaping the future of the CFO organisation. Reporting to the Head of Strategy, Planning and Central Finance, and working closely with the CFO and their leadership team, this role is instrumental in driving cultural transformation, leading critical initiatives, and ensuring the effective, efficient operation of a global finance function.
Advantages for Candidates:
- Strategic Impact: This role offers a unique opportunity to directly influence the strategic direction of a global CFO function. You will be involved in defining vision and goals, ensuring every decision contributes to enterprise value.
- Transformational Leadership: As a catalyst for change, you will spearhead cultural evolution within the CFO organisation, embedding a proactive, problem-solving mindset and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Visibility and Influence: You will have direct access to and work closely with the CFO and the CFO leadership team, providing an exceptional platform for building influence and trust at the most senior levels of a global enterprise.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role necessitates partnering with various departments across Fidelity International, including ETS, HR, and Corporate Communications. This provides valuable experience in driving strategic outcomes through collaborative efforts within a large, complex organisation.
- Driving Engagement: A core component of this role is leading the CFO's communications and engagement strategy. This is a fantastic opportunity to hone your skills in aligning messaging with organisational goals and fostering a connected and motivated workforce.
- Operational Excellence: You will be responsible for managing the operational rhythm of the CFO function, which includes planning key events like Town Halls and Offsites, and overseeing administrative operations. This hands-on involvement ensures you develop a deep understanding of what drives efficient and effective operations.
- Career Development: Fidelity International emphasizes employee development, offering a comprehensive benefits package, support for well-being, and flexibility in working arrangements. This commitment suggests a supportive environment for long-term career growth.
Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
- Global Scope and Complexity: The CFO function is global, operating across multiple locations and cultures. Candidates must be comfortable navigating this complexity, adapting communication styles, and understanding diverse perspectives.
- Ambiguity and Pace: The role requires an entrepreneurial and collaborative mindset, with resilience to navigate ambiguity and deliver results in a fast-paced, evolving environment. This is an opportunity for those who thrive on dynamic challenges.
- Balancing Strategy and Operations: You will need to demonstrate proficiency in operating across both long-term strategic priorities and intricate, detail-oriented operational challenges. The ability to seamlessly transition between these two modes is crucial.
- Cultural Change Leadership: Leading cultural change requires strong influencing skills, empathy, and a deep understanding of human behaviour. Candidates should have a proven track record in fostering learning, inclusion, and performance.
- Continuous Improvement Focus: A key aspect is embedding a continuous improvement strategy. This involves not just identifying issues but actively driving solutions and fostering a proactive problem-solving culture across the team.
- Values Alignment: The role emphasizes the highest levels of personal integrity, professionalism, and accountability. Demonstrating and role-modelling the company's values will be paramount to success.
This Head of Engagement and Business Improvement position is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional looking to make a tangible impact within a leading global financial services organisation. If you are a strategic thinker with strong leadership capabilities and a passion for driving positive change, this role offers a rewarding path for career advancement and personal growth.