Executive Recruitment
Kaizen conducts executive search assignments with unmatched relationships and networks across the industry. Every search assignment begins with a thorough understanding of your organisation, your employer brand and what exceptional leadership looks like for you. Kaizen combines deep industry networks with rigorous research to identify and place long term leaders.
Current Trends in the Sector
Executive hiring across Australia's financial services sector continues to strengthen, with Kaizen Recruitment completing a number of C-suite mandates this quarter including Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Investment Officer (CIO) and Chief Risk Officer (CRO) roles, alongside Heads of Distribution and specialist searches.
CIO activity has been particularly prominent within superannuation, as funds invest in long-term investment capability and succession planning highlighted by leadership transitions at First Super, Equip Super and the appointment of ESSSuper's CEO to HESTA.
Senior Tax and Risk & Compliance leadership remain in high demand, driven by regulatory complexity and governance expectations.
Employer confidence is stronger than 12 months ago, with organisations committing to critical leadership hires where the right appointment directly influences performance and growth.
Meet the Team
Matt McGilton - Managing Director
With more than 20 years of financial services recruitment experience, Matt offers an unequalled experience level and knowledge of the industry that’s unrivalled. His background in Investment Consulting and Funds Management has meant that Matt is highly sought after for his understanding and commitment to the industry.
Matt is well-known for his unwavering dedication and energy in his work and his commitment to upholding the highest professional standards of excellence. His passion for mentoring others is as strong as his passion for sustainability and the environment. What drives Matt the most is his commitment to going the extra mile for his clients, which he consistently demonstrates day in and day out. Matt has continued to serve the industry by sponsoring, presenting, mentoring, and advising participants in organisations such as FINSIA, CFA, AIST, and RCSA.
When he’s not at work, you’ll find Matt engaging in any activity that brings him outdoors – especially hiking, mountain biking, and ocean swimming – and spending time with his family and friends.
Amanda Chisholm - Director
Amanda Chisholm is Director at Kaizen Recruitment, where she specialises in legal, risk, corporate governance, compliance and executive roles across Australia’s financial services sector. With deep expertise across funds management, wealth management, superannuation and insurance, Amanda has established herself as a trusted advisor to organisations navigating complex regulatory environments.
A qualified risk professional holding the Governance Institute of Australia Certificate in Risk Management, Amanda is an active contributor to industry dialogue as a longstanding member of Women in Super, Women in Investments, and Compliance, Risk and Executive Women (CREW). She regularly presents at industry events and her market insights are frequently featured in media including the Financial Standard.
Amanda currently serves as a Council Member for the Recruitment, Consulting & Staffing Association (RCSA), representing Victoria and Tasmania. In this role, she contributes to strategic decisions that shape recruitment industry standards, capability and compliance across Australia.
Related Insights
Kaizen Recruitment Funds Management Executive Roundtable | Sydney 2026
Case Study: General Manager of Investments, Superannuation – Prime Super
Case Study: Chief Risk Officer (CRO) – Executive Search Appointment
AI in Financial Services: C-Suite Roundtable Insights
Case Study: Head of Distribution
Recruitment Process for Head of Distribution – La Trobe Financial
Case Study: Recruitment Process for Chief Investment Officer – RMBL Investments
CFO Executive Search Case Study: Acorn Capital | Kaizen Recruitment
Kaizen Recruitment partnered with Acorn Capital, a specialist Australian investment manager, to appoint a new Chief Financial Officer. Kaizen delivered a qualified shortlist within the agreed timeframe, resulting in the successful appointment of Hamish Wood.