To contact the CFO of an organisation about a job that's been advertised?

[Thelaughingtonepoliceman]

Posting for traffic mainly: I'm looking for a new job and a company in my sector is advertising for a role which I would like and which I'm qualified for.

I slightly know the CFO of this organisation (he was briefly a client of my company and I know him a little through the industry network). I have a cordial relationship with him albeit I don't know him well at all. He's a LinkedIn contact. He also, to complicate things, knows my current boss well.

Would it be a good idea to message him via LinkedIn about this role or would it seem a bit pushy/inappropriate?

I'm getting different advice from different people on this, wondering what the consensus is on here.

Message him on LinkedIn in - ask about the company generally and also ask him in the company has internal inferal (you are WAY more likely.to get an interview if he refers you)

I would! Isn’t that the whole point of LinkedIn? Whenever I apply for a role, I apply through the usual process and then contact the recruiting manager as well. So far, at least, it’s always worked out!

Thanks: I know in theory this significantly improves my chances I guess I am just concerned about making him feel I'm putting him under pressure which could lead to awkwardness if I didn't get shortlisted. It's a small industry and I'd come across him in future.

Definitely do it. The market is brutal and very bit working your network helps. It won't be awkward if you don't get it but it may well help you get shortlisted for interview. Absolutely do it. I would.

Thanks all, this basically confirms my instincts, always good to have a sounding board!

Is it advertised by the company or via an agency/consultancy? I find some clients get really pissed off if candidates go direct as they're paying a supplier to do the leg work at the beginning. Some clients also see it as you're trying to cheat the system or that you think you're too important to pursue the stated process. Others will see it is showing initiative. It's difficult to predict their thinking. (The public sector is very different - they would encourage you to approach them at senior levels). If you're sure he will know who you are, I'd drop him a line to say you're interested and have some questions - would he be the best person to speak to or should you go via HR/the Consultant.