Executive search for senior finance and operations leadership

My work has been international in scope, with the majority of placements delivered in the UK and Hong Kong. I run Argenta as a senior-led executive search practice, focused on appointing CFOs, Finance Directors and COOs for businesses where leadership quality directly affects performance and value.

I take on a limited number of assignments, work closely with clients throughout, and focus on outcomes over activity. Alongside search, I also work with a small number of leaders in a coaching capacity, typically where clarity, judgement and confidence matter alongside or following an appointment.

What Argenta does

Executive search

Senior finance and operations leadership appointments where judgement, discretion and quality of decision-making matter. My work is most often focused on CFO, Finance Director and COO roles, particularly in private equity-backed and founder-led environments. 

Senior and specialist recruitment

 Critical hires reporting into finance and operations leadership teams, where execution, governance and commercial rigour are essential. 

Leadership coaching (by invitation)

 Selective coaching support for senior finance and operations leaders, often connected to a new appointment, succession decision or period of organisational change. This work focuses on clarity, confidence and effective leadership in complex or high-pressure contexts. 

Role focus

My work has been predominantly focused on CFO and Finance Director appointments, particularly in businesses where financial leadership plays a central role in growth, governance and value creation. I also regularly support Chief Operating Officer appointments, especially where scale, operational complexity or post-investment change is involved.

Alongside this core focus, I have also placed other senior leaders where the context and trust are right. 

Industry experience

I work most often with consumer and industrial businesses, including branded consumer products, retail, digital-led and e-commerce organisations, and manufacturing-led operations. I also have experience in regulated environments, including pharmaceuticals and medical devices, where financial and operational leadership is critical.

This sector focus reflects long-standing experience rather than an attempt to cover the whole market.

How Argenta works

Clarity first, aligning on what success looks like beyond the job description. 

Targeted search, using structured market mapping and direct outreach rather than volume advertising.

Rigorous assessment, with evidence-led evaluation, referencing, and decision support.

Senior-led delivery, with direct involvement throughout the assignment.

Discretion by default, particularly where trust and reputation matter.

When clients typically contact Argenta 

You need to appoint a CFO, Finance Director or COO and the hire is business-critical.

The role sits at the centre of growth, governance or operational complexity.

You want a shortlist you can trust, not a flood of CVs.

You value experienced, partner-level involvement throughout.

The cost of a poor leadership hire outweighs the cost of doing it properly.

About

Damian Rhodes, Founder, Argenta 

I’m an executive recruiter with over 24 years’ experience supporting founders, boards and investors to appoint senior finance and operations leaders who shape performance. I have led CFO, FD and COO searches across multiple markets, with the majority of my work delivered in the UK and Hong Kong.

I began my career in commercial due diligence with a management consulting firm, working with private equity and venture capital investors on growth and investment decisions, before spending the past 24 years in executive recruitment. That background continues to inform my approach to senior hiring, particularly where financial judgement, governance and long-term value creation matter.

Clients value my calm judgement, straight communication and hands-on involvement throughout complex and sensitive searches. Founder, CEO, CFO and Managing Director-level references are available on request.

Contact

If you’re considering a CFO, Finance Director or COO appointment, or a leadership hire closely connected to finance and operations, you’re welcome to get in touch for a confidential discussion. 

Email: damian@argenta.partners

Phone: +44 (0)7309 239 234

Location: Bath / South West England  - UK-wide focus