East Midlands finance recruitment, done properly.

Strive Talent covers the full range of finance and accounting roles across the region, without compromising on quality - regardless of level.

I work with a select group of SME and PE-backed businesses, on roles I know I can deliver. No volume, no shortcuts, just honest recruitment from someone who knows this market inside out.

Modern office space with a long table, laptop, notebooks, and pens near large windows, with high-rise buildings outside and a potted plant inside.

I'm James, founder of Strive Talent.

After ten years specialising in finance recruitment across the East Midlands, I made the decision to go out on my own — driven by wanting to build something around my family, not the other way around. Having two young children has a way of changing your priorities.

That time in this market means I know the businesses, the people, and what good looks like at every level. That's not something you get from a database — and that's why I only work on roles I know I can deliver across finance and accounting, with no compromises on quality, regardless of level.

Outside work, when time allows, I'm a keen golfer, Leicester Tigers fan, and someone who takes their marathon training a little too seriously.

About me

A smiling man with a beard and short hair wearing a navy blue polo shirt in a bright, modern office space with large windows and blurred background.
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My Services

  • I specialise in the appointment of finance professionals across the East Midlands, including:

    • Finance Directors

    • Financial Controllers

    • Finance Business Partners

    • FP&A Professionals

    • Management Accountants

    • Assistant Accountants

    Each search is delivered through a structured process:

    1. Detailed role briefing and market alignment

    2. Targeted mapping and direct outreach

    3. In-depth qualification and motivation assessment

    4. Curated shortlist with commentary

    5. Offer management and onboarding support

    I focus on quality over quantity. Every introduction is intentional.

  • Beyond live recruitment mandates, I provide clients with:

    • Salary benchmarking

    • Talent availability insights

    • Hiring strategy guidance

    • Succession planning conversations

    My approach is consultative, not transactional.

  • For finance professionals considering their next step, I offer:

    • Market guidance

    • Career progression discussions

    • Discreet representation

    • Honest feedback

    I prioritise long-term career alignment over quick moves.

Interior view of a high-rise conference room with a curved table and chairs, overlooking a city skyline through large floor-to-ceiling windows at sunset.

Testimonials

  • Group Financial Controller

    PE Backed SaaS Company

    James consistently delivers on his promises. He does this by building a trusting relationship with his clients and prospects and uses this to bridge clear communication which delivers results.

  • Finance Director

    Owner Managed SME

    James approached me regarding a high-profile FD role that he felt would be a natural progression for me. What stood out was the work he had already done with his client — he had taken the time to truly understand their requirements and culture, and was confident I would be a strong fit.

    James was instrumental throughout the process, particularly in managing expectations on both sides and navigating salary discussions to reach an outcome that worked for everyone.

  • Finance Director

    Manufacturing SME

    I've worked with James for a number of years across various roles and he's always presented me with concise shortlists where I could have appointed any one of the candidates. What stands out is that he doesn't just find people who can do the job, but he consistently gets the cultural fit right too.

Contact me

Tel: 07533 672699

Email: info@strivetalent.co.uk