VIVACITY LABS

Company overview

Founded in 2015, Vivacity Labs empowers transport managers to take the next step in reducing congestion and improving safety on the roads. Its AI sensors and first-of-its-kind ‘Smart Junctions’ signal control gather detailed and anonymous data 24/7 on transport modes, traffic flow and travel patterns, supporting strategic decisions to optimise the transport network and improve urban infrastructure.

Vivacity now has sensors in almost 70 towns and cities across the UK, is approaching 100 employees and has revenues which have more than doubled every year since founding.

To support its growth ambitions, the business has raised equity from strategic industry investors as well as VC firms Mobeus and Downing. Its most recent raise will be invested in growing its UK sales and expanding into Northern Europe, the Nordics and Australian/New Zealand markets.

Brief 

The executive team wanted to appoint an experienced FD to upscale the finance capability and help the business meet its growth targets. Championing a data-driven approach and supporting calculated risk-taking where appropriate, the appointee would lead the finance function, working with embedded experts in each team to help the company take the right decisions at every level.

Having recently recruited Rob Stait – Vivacity’s Sales Director – Directorbank’s James Searby was again chosen to lead the search process.

The brief called for candidates with Board/investor exposure and a track record of supporting fast-growing technology businesses. They needed to be deeply analytical with experience of implementing data-driven improvements. Furthermore, they would be able to see beyond the numbers, driving decision-making at tactical and strategic levels, with significant knowledge of developing reports, metrics and dashboards with relevant tools and programs.

Outcome

James conducted a detailed candidate mapping exercise to ensure all avenues and opportunities were fully explored. The search culminated in the appointment of Henry Hunter, a PWC-trained sector-experienced FD.

Henry has a track record of leading finance functions at early stage tech businesses, supporting Boards and Founders to deliver on vision. Commercially-minded and experienced at working with executive teams and investors, he has successfully built financial models, data rooms and KPI dashboards to support business growth. His most recent role was Head of Finance for AppyWay, a mobility start-up digitising kerbside infrastructure and parking data for drivers.