In senior appointments, timing, preparation, and sector insight can make all the difference.
As a Senior Consultant specialising in Senior Appointments & Management, Max Money works closely with both candidates and providers across the care sector, supporting leadership hires that shape services for years to come.
We caught up with Max to reflect on the past year, talk through a standout placement, and share practical advice for candidates considering their next leadership move.
What’s one senior placement from the past year that really stands out to you, and what made it a success?
One placement that really stands out was supporting Sylvia at British Home. We were able to find the right candidate within just a couple of days, thanks to a referral that actually came from a competitor, which shows how strong relationships in this sector can be.
From the start, the candidate and client felt like a perfect fit for each other. The role aligned well with the candidate’s experience and values, and the client was clear about what they needed. The candidate was incredibly grateful throughout the process, which made the outcome even more rewarding.
What’s one internal achievement from the past year you’re most proud of at Leaders in Care - and why?
Being named Employee of the Month in October was a big moment for me, especially as it came during just my third month at Leaders in Care.
It was a real confidence boost and a reminder that the work I was doing was having an impact early on - both internally and for clients and candidates. It definitely motivated me to keep pushing and building on that momentum.
From your experience, what’s the biggest mistake candidates make when applying for senior or management roles?
One of the most common mistakes is applying for roles outside of their specific sector experience.
For example, candidates from mental health or learning disability backgrounds often apply for elderly or nursing care roles, assuming transferable skills alone will be enough. While leadership skills do transfer, these sectors operate very differently, and employers are usually looking for proven experience within their specific care setting.
Being realistic and targeted with applications is key.
What advice would you give candidates preparing for senior interviews?
Preparation is everything.
I always recommend writing down your career achievements and key facts about the organisation before the interview. Treat it like a personal cheat sheet.
When candidates can confidently talk about what they’ve delivered and show a clear understanding of the business, it makes a strong impression and sets them apart immediately.
What qualities or skills are employers most focused on when hiring senior leaders right now?
Two things come up consistently:
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Commissioning experience
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A strong track record of positive CQC inspections
Employers want leaders who understand how services are funded and regulated, and who can demonstrate that they’ve led teams through inspections successfully.
How has the senior appointments market changed recently, and what should candidates be aware of heading into 2026?
The market is quite volatile at the moment.
Large acquisitions, such as Welltower’s acquisition of Barchester, Care UK, and HC-One, have significantly shifted the landscape. This has resulted in many Director-level professionals becoming redundant and has driven movement among Registered Managers.
At the same time, changes to how the CQC inspects services are putting pressure on smaller providers, who are often struggling to keep up with increased expectations.
Candidates need to be aware of these dynamics and approach their next move with a clear understanding of stability, structure, and long-term plans.
What’s your top piece of advice for professionals considering their next leadership move this year?
Ask questions about the future.
Specifically:
What are the company’s plans for growth - and where could you realistically be in five years if you join them?
A senior role isn’t just about the job you’re stepping into now, but the direction the organisation is heading in and whether that aligns with your own ambitions.
Thinking about your next leadership move?
Max works closely with senior professionals and providers across the care sector, supporting leadership hires built on clarity, fit, and long-term impact.
If you’re considering your next step, our Senior Appointments team is here to help -
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