Managing Director
The Role:
South West Investment Group (SWIG)
The Client:
For over three decades, the South West Investment Group (SWIG) has been a trusted and consistent provider of debt finance to micro and small businesses throughout the South West. Known for delivering crucial funding often inaccessible through mainstream channels, SWIG has built a strong reputation as a key enabler of regional business growth. Their extensive reach, solidified by frontline operations in Bristol, Exeter, and Poole, a central hub in Truro, and dedicated Business Development Managers across the territory, underscores their deep understanding and commitment to the local economy.
As the main operating subsidiary of the SWIG Group, SWIG Finance sought a Managing Director to lead ambitious growth plans. Having collaborated with SWIG on numerous occasions since 2019, including search campaigns for their CEO, Chair, and Non-Executive Directors, we had already developed a strong bond and deep understanding of their organisation. This unique insight proved invaluable as we embarked on the search for their new Managing Director.
Our Founding Director, Vanessa Moon, and Director of Executive Search, Simon Quinn, designed a tailored search campaign to meet this precise brief. The campaign consisted of a blend of targeted regional advertising and modern headhunting practices. The high-profile nature of this role attracted significant market interest, making efficient candidate pool management crucial. We used our understanding of SWIG’s company culture to identify candidates who fit the Managing Director brief and also genuinely aligned with their values and purpose. Following this, we conducted in-depth interviews with the shortlisted candidates, determining which individuals would thrive and effectively implement growth strategies at SWIG. We’re delighted that SWIG appointed our recommended candidate, Matthew Wilde.
A commercially astute leader, Mr. Wilde brings substantial expertise in SME finance, investment, and business growth. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to scale businesses, attract investment, and drive commercial success, notably through previous roles at Lloyds Banking Group and the Development Bank of Wales. His advisory and investment experience, coupled with a strong background in the SME sector, positions him perfectly to succeed at SWIG.
Christine Allison, Chair of the Board at SWIG, commented:
“We were impressed by Vanessa and Simon's deep understanding of our organisation and their unparalleled attention to detail.”
To kick things off, we engaged in detailed discussions with SWIG's leadership team, defining the ideal Managing Director profile and the strategic impact this placement should achieve. SWIG sought a leader with deep lending expertise and a strong understanding of the SME marketplace, encompassing funding and investment. They required an authentic, active leader capable of inspiring, motivating, and developing the team, while infusing the role with energy and enthusiasm. Furthermore, the Managing Director needed to be capable of building and maintaining strong relationships with current and potential stakeholders across the South West region.
Simon Quinn, commented:
“We’re delighted to have had the opportunity to further enhance our bond with SWIG. Searching for their Managing Director was a challenging process due to the precise brief, yet we saw significant interest from leaders across the South West, underscoring SWIG’s importance in the region's business community.”
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