Case Studies
Case Study: Strategic Communications Recruitment for First Sentier Investors
11 June 2025 by Max Forsyth
The Challenge
First Sentier Investors, a global asset management group with US$129.7bn (£100.5bn) of funds under management across 11 investment teams, faced a pressing need for expert communications talent. The company required immediate support to manage and enhance its corporate messaging, PR activities, media profile and internal communications projects.
With several high-priority initiatives requiring swift execution, First Sentier Investors needed a solution that addressed both its immediate requirements and long-term strategic goals. The challenge was two-fold: securing an experienced interim specialist to deliver impact from day one while identifying a permanent senior communications professional to drive ongoing media engagement.
Our Approach
Understanding the requirements and complexity of the role, Max Forsyth, Managing Director and Founder, and Muksheeda Boodhooa, Manager, Investor Relations Practice at Comms Search & Selection designed a two-phase recruitment strategy:
Immediate Interim Solution
We leveraged our network of senior communications contractors to identify a highly skilled interim professional with the expertise and agility to step in at short notice.
Strategic Permanent Hire
An in-depth search was conducted for a senior communications professional with extensive experience in asset and investment management, corporate communications, and media relations across the UK and Europe.
A critical success factor was ensuring alignment with First Sentier Investors’ commitment to responsible investment. The ideal candidate needed a client-first mindset, a deep understanding of investment teams and affiliate businesses, and the ability to proactively engage with the media and key stakeholders.
The Outcome
Comms Search & Selection quickly mobilised its network to secure an interim communications consultant who was able to hit the ground running. This specialist provided immediate support on high-priority projects, ensuring continuity and delivering measurable impact.
For the permanent role, our targeted search identified a senior communications manager with deep asset management expertise. Their appointment strengthened First Sentier Investors’ media presence and stakeholder engagement, delivering long-term value to the organisation.
By combining speed with strategic precision, Comms Search & Selection successfully met First Sentier Investors’ immediate needs while positioning them for sustained communications success.
Testimonials
"My experience working with Comms Search & Selection to secure my role as a senior corporate communications team member at First Sentier Investors was exceptionally positive. From the outset, the team at Comms Search & Selection demonstrated a clear understanding of my career aspirations and the specific requirements of the role. Their approach was highly professional, and they provided insightful guidance and proactive support throughout the entire recruitment process. I was particularly impressed by their market knowledge, particularly their sector specialism and the seamless and transparent communication they maintained throughout the process. Thanks to their dedication and expertise, I was connected with a fantastic opportunity at First Sentier Investors that aligns perfectly with my skills and ambitions. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Comms Search & Selection to other senior communications professionals seeking their next career move or indeed hiring managers looking to recruit for their team."