Kyle Forder Lands His First Finance Leader Role in a SaaS FinTech

"GrowCFO’s Future CFO Programme helped me develop many of the skills required to be a well-rounded finance leader, including fundraising and M&A, strategic thinking and leadership."

Kyle Forder secured his first Finance Leader role whilst participating in GrowCFO’s Future CFO Programme and being an active member of the GrowCFO community. Selina Finance is a rapidly growing post-Series B SaaS FinTech with an exciting business model.

Founded in 2018, Selina Finance is the UK’s first HELOC provider, allowing homeowners to unlock built-up equity in their residential property. The financing can be used for anything, from home improvements to paying school education.

The company has experienced exponential growth and, following the recent completion of a Series B funding round, Kyle was brought in as the finance leader to drive change and establish a scalable finance function. In preparation for the step up in career from Finance Manager at a SaaS fintech, Kyle has been an active member of GrowCFO’s Future CFO programme, completing several modules and participating in various collaborative talks and workshops.

Developing a financial framework

As Selina’s first major finance hire, Kyle’s initial focus was on tightening financial control, improving management reporting and implementing new systems & internal processes. The goal this year is to be audit ready and ensure the finance function can support the 40% headcount growth expected over the coming months.

GrowCFO aided Kyle’s development

In Kyle’s two previous roles, he has taken ownership of the finance function, but has lacked exposure to an experienced finance leader from whom he could learn and develop. This is where GrowCFO has been invaluable by providing Kyle exposure to a network of ambitious and experienced finance leaders who readily share insights and advice based on past experiences.

In addition, completing the competency framework highlighted gaps in Kyle’s skills and experience. These were then addressed via specific training materials and development workshops which covered everything from ‘Taking over the finance function’ to ‘Creating a 100-day plan’ for a new role.

Achieving the next level

The next phase of Kyle’s development will include taking part in the mentorship programme provided by GrowCFO later this year as he builds out his finance team. GrowCFO has had a tangible impact on Kyle’s recent success and will continue to support him through the next stage of his career.