Case Studies
Improving business performance
Our work in this area typically includes
Targeted growth and profit improvement
Cash flow management
Cost reduction
Restructuring and risk reduction
Systems and operations
The company – Supplies industrial goods
The brief -
Improve financial control and reporting
Improve business performance
Improve business model and strategy
Mentor business owner
Ad hoc projects
The solution – Monthly Finance Director service for 4 days per month
The benefits -
Business growth of 15% targeted
£60k of tax saving identified, preserving cash
Accounting system re-implemented
Weaknesses identified for rectification
Business strategy agreed with niche marketing plan
The client reaction – New projects requested
The company – Hotel operator
The brief -
Viability study on hotel venue freehold acquisition
If viable, assist negotiation of acquisition on advantageous terms
Deal with financing, structuring and tax planning issues
The solution – Interim appointment as Finance Director for 30 days
The measurable benefits -
Successful hotel acquisition and negotiated price reduction of £160k
Performed commercial and financial due diligence revealing £50k tax saving
Balance sheet restructured enabling substantial dividend to shareholders
Business now profitable, growing fast, and generating cash
The client reaction – Assistance requested for two further venue purchases
The company – Exports speciality chemicals
The brief -
Act as sounding board to management
Help grow the business
Ad hoc projects
The solution – Appointed as a non-executive director
The measurable benefits -
Profits increased 500% and costs reduced 15%
Business plan including exit strategy agreed
Stronger cash flow allows faster loan repayments
Stock turnover increased reducing working capital required
Management succession plan designed
The client reaction – Assignment continues, with new projects requested
The company – Distribution of trade tools
The brief -
Return company to profitability
Grow the business
Improve cash flow
The solution – Appointed Finance Director for 3-4 days per month
The measurable benefits -
Improved accounts system, started monthly management accounts, prepared forecasts and new budget
Created new pricing system and removed loss-making product lines and customers
Recognised sustainable growth not possible due to increased competition and cheap imports
Wholesale division returned to breaking even then closed and diversified into other sectors
The client reaction – Accepted need for closure, but grateful for diversification and avoidance of personal guarantees
The company – Trains customers of network security software suppliers
The brief -
Oversee finance function
Provide strategic direction
Mentor business owner
Resolve legacy business issues
The solution – Monthly Finance Director service for 1 day per month
The benefits -
Agreed strategy and business plan
Xero accounting system implemented
Monthly reporting
Successful exit from legacy business
Business growing strongly
The client reaction – Increase in services required