Allura Partners Finds CFO for FirstCape

We were recently engaged to lead the search for a Chief Financial Officer for FirstCape, a New Zealand-based Wealth and asset management business formed in 2024 by bringing together Jarden Wealth, JBWere NZ, Harbour Asset Management and BNZ Investment Services Limited. FirstCape is on a strong growth trajectory and recently announced the acquisition of Consilium – a transaction that will result in the business having around $65b in funds under advice or management.

With FirstCape continuing to emphasise growth, the brief focused on identifying a candidate with deep experience in M&A and scaling businesses.

The search was led by Tom Hattersley, Principal at Allura Partners, alongside Angela Borbe, Research Associate, working closely with Malcolm Jackson, CEO and Jessica Friend, CPO, of FirstCape.

Although the role was based in New Zealand, the search had an international lens. We connected with candidates across the US, Europe, APAC, and locally in New Zealand. The process was completed efficiently, resulting in a strong outcome within an extremely short timeframe.

FirstCape CEO Malcolm Jackson said he was impressed with the way Allura Partners worked through a robust process in a short span of time.

“Their ability to move at pace without compromising on quality or depth was outstanding,” Jackson said.

Following an extensive search, FirstCape appointed Andrew Donaldson, who is based in New Zealand and brings a wealth of regional experience, including several years in Australia. Andrew demonstrated strong expertise across a diverse range of industries, including Financial Services. Andrew brings a breadth of financial leadership and commercial acumen that aligns strongly with FirstCape’s strategic priorities.

We’re pleased to have supported this key appointment and look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of FirstCape as they build on their market leadership.

About FirstCape

FirstCape is a group of leading wealth management and asset management companies - the parent company of JBWere New Zealand, Jarden Wealth and Harbour Asset Management. Their mission is to help its clients achieve their financial goals and aspirations by growing and protecting their wealth.