Workforce
SMARDT is a global leader in high-efficiency, oil-free centrifugal chiller technology, with manufacturing and operations across North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific. As the business continued its international expansion, the Australian operation became an increasingly important part of its regional growth strategy.
The Challenge
SMARDT engaged Spearsage to support a critical transformation of its Australian finance leadership team. The project involved recruiting a Finance Manager while redefining the CFO position to better align with the organisation's evolving strategic priorities. Success required balancing expectations across the Canadian executive leadership team and the Australian HR function, coordinating multiple stakeholders and delivering both appointments within a four-month timeframe.
2
Executive Appointments
3 Months
Delivery Timeframe
2
Countries Aligned
Our Approach
Spearsage delivered the engagement through three integrated workstreams, combining executive search with strategic stakeholder advisory. By aligning the priorities of Canadian executive leadership and the Australian HR team, we rebuilt the Australian finance function while ensuring every appointment supported both local operational needs and the organisation's broader global strategy.
Partnered with SMARDT to define the optimal finance team structure, identify the capabilities required for future growth and deliver a targeted search for a Finance Manager. The appointment established a strong operational foundation ahead of the CFO transition.
Worked closely with Canadian executive leadership and the Australian HR team to redefine the CFO role in line with evolving business priorities. Spearsage then led a targeted executive search and managed a structured leadership transition, ensuring continuity throughout the handover process.
Served as the central coordination point between Canadian executive leadership and the Australian HR team, translating strategic priorities into aligned hiring decisions. Through proactive communication, structured governance and stakeholder management across time zones, Spearsage ensured a seamless and transparent decision-making process throughout the engagement.
Results
The engagement delivered a restructured Australian finance leadership team within the agreed four-month timeframe. Both critical appointments were completed while maintaining continuity, aligning local and global stakeholders, and establishing a stronger foundation for SMARDT’s continued regional growth.
2
Executive Roles Placed
3 Months
Delivery Timeframe
2
Countries Aligned
100% Managed
Leadership Transition
1
Finance Function Rebuilt
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From executive search to stakeholder alignment and leadership transitions, Spearsage helps organisations deliver complex, cross-border hiring mandates with confidence.
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