Pre-IPO Biotech Company, Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
The Client
A rapidly scaling biotech company, edging closer to its planned IPO, found itself under growing financial pressure. Investor expectations were intensifying, internal reporting systems were being stretched and teams across the organisation were beginning to feel the strain. Although the company had strong scientific foundations and a promising commercial pathway, its financial leadership capability needed reinforcement to support the next phase of growth.
The Requirement
As the business moved toward public-market readiness, the board recognised an urgent need for an interim CFO, someone who understood both the complexity of biotech science and the relentless pace of fast-moving capital markets. This leader needed to steady anxious teams, strengthen financial discipline and bring clarity to the equity narrative that would soon be scrutinised by external stakeholders.
Beyond technical expertise, the ideal interim needed emotional intelligence: the ability to reassure people, calm rising tension and unite scientific and commercial functions behind a single, compelling story. This was a pivotal moment and the organisation required someone who could create order without adding pressure.
The Solution
Novo partnered closely with the leadership team to clarify the business’s stress points and the qualities required in an interim hire. We conducted a focused search across our senior finance network, prioritising individuals with significant pre-IPO experience and sector-specific understanding.
Our approach included:
- Assessing leaders with strong biotech, life sciences or deep-tech finance backgrounds
- Reviewing experience in investor readiness, equity storytelling and financial governance
- Evaluating communication style, team impact and ability to stabilise a high-growth environment
- Ensuring the interim could rapidly build trust across scientific, commercial and operational teams
The Outcome
Novo appointed an interim CFO who immediately brought reassurance and structure. They tightened reporting, sharpened forecasts and strengthened governance, helping teams feel more confident and better aligned. The equity narrative became clearer, more compelling and easier to communicate.
By the time the business began its search for a permanent CFO, it was operating with far greater discipline and significantly less stress. The organisation moved forward feeling prepared, aligned and ready for the scrutiny ahead.
