Working with Acuity Associates for CFO and FD Roles in 2026
Acuity Associates is a UK-based staffing agency specializing in the placement of senior financial leadership, specifically Finance Directors and CFOs. They serve professionals operating within the consulting and business services sectors. The most important thing to know is that they prioritize high-level executive experience and specific sector expertise over generalist financial backgrounds.
Who pays Acuity Associates
Paid by the employer, not by you.
Acuity Associates earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.
What that means for you
Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.
2
Sectors we track
Global
Presence
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Sectors
What specific roles and sectors does Acuity Associates focus on?
Acuity Associates focuses exclusively on the senior financial executive market. They place candidates into Finance Director and CFO roles within the consulting and business services industries. Their expertise lies in matching financial leaders who understand the unique operational and commercial pressures of professional services firms.
Where you meet
How does the staffing process work from initial contact to placement?
The process begins with a review of your executive profile against current mandates in the consulting and business services sectors. If your experience aligns with their client requirements, you will undergo a screening interview to assess your technical and leadership capabilities. Successful candidates are then presented to clients, with the agency managing the interview scheduling and final offer negotiations.
What should I expect regarding communication and timelines?
Expect a professional, high-touch communication style that respects your seniority as an executive. The agency acts as an intermediary, meaning they handle the flow of information between you and the hiring firm. While they aim for transparency, timelines are dictated by the client's internal hiring urgency and the complexity of the specific CFO or FD mandate.
Your side
How can I effectively get on the radar of Acuity Associates?
To stand out, ensure your CV explicitly highlights your experience as a Finance Director or CFO within business services or consulting. Use keywords that reflect strategic financial planning, commercial growth, and operational leadership. A direct referral from a professional in their network is the most effective way to ensure your profile receives immediate attention.
Is Acuity Associates the right fit for my career search?
Acuity Associates is an excellent partner if you are a seasoned financial leader seeking a move within the consulting or business services sectors. If you are a junior accountant or work outside of these specific industries, you will likely find more success with a generalist agency. They are best suited for candidates who require a discreet, specialized approach to executive-level career transitions.
How to work with Acuity Associates: candidate playbook
- Tailor your CV to emphasize commercial impact and strategic financial leadership.
- Ensure your LinkedIn profile reflects your current senior-level responsibilities.
- Request a brief introductory call to discuss your specific sector expertise.
- Maintain a list of firms you have already applied to independently.
- Ask your consultant for specific feedback after every client interview.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays the recruitment fee when I am placed by Acuity Associates?
The recruitment fee is paid entirely by the hiring company, not the candidate. You should never be asked to pay for representation or placement services by a legitimate staffing agency.
What happens to my personal data once I submit my CV?
Your data is stored in their secure database to match you against future executive mandates. They are required to comply with UK data protection regulations, meaning they cannot share your details with a prospective employer without your explicit consent.
Should I apply for roles directly if I am also working with an agency?
It is generally best to coordinate with your consultant before applying directly to a firm they are representing. Applying twice can create administrative confusion and may disqualify you from being represented by the agency for that specific role.
How should I follow up if I have not heard back after an interview?
Wait for the agreed-upon feedback window to pass before reaching out. When you do follow up, keep your communication concise and focused on whether there are any further questions the client has regarding your candidacy.
Applying through Acuity Associates?
Track the role, tailor your CV to the real employer, and prep for the interview with JobMentis.
Start freeRecruiting agencies in United Kingdom
Keep going
General guidance for candidates. JobMentis is not affiliated with the agencies listed.