How to Run a Successful Interview for Accountancy and Finance Roles

The interview process plays a critical role in identifying the right talent—but it’s not just the candidates who need to prepare. For employers looking to recruit high-calibre finance professionals—whether for a temporary, interim, or permanent role—it’s essential to approach interviews with structure, insight, and professionalism.

At Sharp Consultancy, we support organisations across Yorkshire with the recruitment of finance talent at all levels—from part-qualified accountants to Finance Directors (FDs) and Chief Financial Officers (CFOs). Here’s our guide to conducting an effective, professional interview that reflects positively on your business and helps you secure the right candidate.

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Choose the Right Interview Format

When recruiting for finance roles such as Management Accountants, Financial Controllers, or Finance Business Partners, consider what interview format suits both the role and the stage of the recruitment process:

• Phone interviews are great for early-stage screening.

• Video interviews via Zoom or Teams work well when geography is a factor or for interim appointments.

• Face-to-face interviews remain key for final-stage assessments and senior finance appointments.

Decide whether your process will follow a structured format, where each candidate is asked the same questions, or a more conversational approach tailored to the individual’s background.

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Select the Right Interview Panel

The hiring manager—often a Finance Director, HR Business Partner, or Managing Director—should typically be involved in interviewing, especially for qualified or senior finance roles.

Remember: the interview is a two-way process. Choose interviewers who will positively represent your company culture, speak credibly about the team and wider business, and be enthusiastic about the opportunity.

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Time It Right

Most first interviews for finance roles should last around 45–60 minutes, with more time given for second-stage or senior-level appointments such as Group Financial Controller or Head of Finance.

If you’re seeing multiple candidates in one day, build in buffer time between interviews to avoid running late or rushing through important conversations.

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Plan the Practical Details

Ensure the location is professional, accessible, and welcoming. Whether interviews are taking place at your office or online, ensure that candidates receive clear instructions in advance:

• Who they will be meeting

• The expected duration

• Directions, parking information, or joining links

• Any supporting material they should bring (e.g., portfolio, case study presentation)

If interviewing in person, ensure someone is available to greet candidates and offer refreshments—it’s the small details that make a difference.

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Be Fully Prepared

Have a printed or digital interview pack for each candidate, including:

• A copy of their CV and cover letter

• Any pre-interview exercises or assessments

• Notes or feedback from other stages of the process

Preparation also signals professionalism and respect for the candidate’s time and effort.

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Ask the Right Questions

To evaluate suitability, ensure you tailor your questions to the technical competencies, sector experience, and commercial awareness needed for the role.

Examples:

• “How have you improved financial reporting processes in your current role?”

• “Can you give an example of where your insight influenced a strategic business decision?”

• “What are the key financial challenges facing our sector right now?”

Structured questions allow for comparison across candidates, while follow-up questions help explore their depth of experience.

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Help Candidates Feel at Ease

Finance interviews can be high-pressure, especially for newly qualified candidates or those moving into their first management role. Set a positive tone:

• Offer a drink

• Start with small talk (“How was your journey?”)

• Create a welcoming environment before diving into technical or competency-based questions

You’ll gain better insight into a candidate when they feel comfortable enough to be themselves.

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Closing the Interview

Before wrapping up, give candidates a chance to ask questions—it shows engagement and gives them clarity.

Be transparent about next steps, timelines, and how/when they will hear back. Even if you're still deciding, maintain communication—finance professionals in demand won’t wait around without feedback, and you risk losing your preferred choice.

Always follow up with every candidate, whether successful or not. This reflects well on your employer brand and helps build a reputation as a professional, people-first organisation.

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Need Support with Interviewing or Hiring Finance Professionals?

Sharp Consultancy is a specialist recruitment firm with a proven track record in placing high-quality accountancy and finance professionals across Yorkshire and the North.

Whether you're recruiting for a Finance Analyst, Qualified Accountant, or CFO, our experienced consultants in Leeds and Sheffield can help you attract and secure the right talent.

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Sharp Consultancy is a specialist finance and accountancy recruitment partner for businesses across Yorkshire and the North East Midlands. With a deep understanding of the local market and access to a network of high-calibre professionals, we help organisations secure the talent they need to succeed. If you're looking to strengthen your finance team, CONTACT US to speak to one of our expert consultants to find out how we can help.