Posts in Business Advice
How to Combat the Feeling of Loneliness as a Managing Director
How to Combat the Feeling of Loneliness as a Managing Director

Running an SME as a Managing Director can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. The introduction of a Non-Executive Director offers a solution to many of the challenges MDs face. From providing independent oversight and strategic input to reducing feelings of loneliness, a NED can transform both your business and your personal experience as a leader. So, if you’ve ever thought of appointing a non-exec director, now might be the time to take that step. Embrace the advantages of non-executive directors and make loneliness at the top a thing of the past.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesBusiness Advice, Board Meeting, NED, Non-Executive Director
How to Use Management Accounts Effectively
How to Use Management Accounts Effectively

Management accounts are a vital tool for businesses to make informed decisions and plan strategically. Unlike financial accounting, management accounting focuses on providing internal financial information to key decision-makers such as FDs, CFOs, and the wider senior leadership team. By understanding the role of management accountants and the significance of management accounts, businesses can unlock numerous benefits.  In this article we will explore the key features of effective management accounts and how to use management accounts in business.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesBusiness Advice, Board Meeting, Business Objective, FD, Finance Director, SME Finance Director, Gross Profit, Gross Profit Margin, CFO, SME CFO, Fractional CFO, Management Accounts
How Can a Fractional CFO Transform Your Bottom Line
How Can a Fractional CFO Transform Your Bottom Line

The concept of Fractional CFOs is a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. Instead of hiring a full-time Chief Financial Officer, companies can tap into the expertise of seasoned financial professionals on a part-time or temporary basis. This approach allows businesses to benefit from the strategic financial insights and management skills of a CFO without the hefty price tag associated with a full-time executive.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesBusiness Advice, Board Meeting, Business Objective, FD, Finance Director, SME Finance Director, Gross Profit, Gross Profit Margin, CFO, SME CFO, Fractional CFO
What Is Gross Profit and Why Is It So Important in Business?
What Is Gross Profit and Why Is It So Important in Business?

Understanding the concept of gross profit is paramount to business success.  It serves as a cornerstone for evaluating a company's financial health, making strategic decisions, and ensuring long-term sustainability.  Yet despite this, many SME business leaders do not give it sufficient importance, and many focus their attention on turnover instead.  In this blog we will examine the subject of gross profit, exploring its definition, significance in business, and how it plays a pivotal role in improving business profitability.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesBusiness Advice, Board Meeting, Business Objective, FD, Finance Director, SME Finance Director, Gross Profit, Gross Profit Margin, CFO, SME CFO, Margin Analysis
Unlocking Success: How a Non-Executive Director Can Elevate Your Business
Unlocking Success: How a Non-Executive Director Can Elevate Your Business

With all the pressures that come with running a business, having a seasoned guide assisting you at the helm can make all the difference. That's where a Non-Executive Director (NED) comes into play. These expert business practitioners are like the North Star for a company, offering invaluable guidance without being involved in the day-to-day operations. In this article, we will delve into the world of NEDs, exploring what they do, why they are crucial, and how they can elevate your business to new heights.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesNon-Executive Director, NED, Business Advice, Board Meeting, Strategic Objectives, Business Objective, Non Exec Director
The Benefits of Management Accounting: Why Every Business Should Use Management Accounts
The Benefits of Management Accounting: Why Every Business Should Use Management Accounts

Management accounts are a vital tool for businesses to make informed decisions and plan strategically. Unlike financial accounting, management accounting focuses on providing internal financial information to key decision-makers such as CFOs, FDs and the wider senior leadership team. By understanding the role of management accountants and the significance of management accounts, businesses can unlock numerous benefits.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesFD, Part-Time FD, Outsourced FD, Business Finance, Virtual FD, Virtual Finance Director, Commercial Finance Director, CFO, Management Accounts, Management Accountant
The Benefits of an Interim CFO: Exploring the Role, Services, and Advantages
The Benefits of an Interim CFO: Exploring the Role, Services, and Advantages

The Benefits of an Interim CFO

In today's dynamic business landscape, companies often encounter the need for specific financial expertise and leadership at various stages of their growth. This is where an Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) steps in. An Interim CFO brings temporary but impactful financial guidance and leadership to a business, helping it navigate critical financial challenges and achieve its strategic goals. In this article, we will delve into the role and responsibilities of an Interim CFO, shed light on the benefits of hiring one, and explore the range of services they provide.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesInterim FD, Interim CFO, Interim Finance Director, Interim Chief Financial Officer, FD, Part-Time FD, Outsourced FD, Business Finance, Virtual FD, Virtual Finance Director, Commercial Finance Director, CFO
Does Employee Engagement Lead to Business Success?
Does Employee Engagement Lead to Business Success?

How can I make my company more successful?  It’s a question that every business owner should ask themselves.  There are numerous factors that determine the success of a business but one that should not be ignored is employee engagement.  Studies on workplace culture and business success have shown a direct link between employee engagement and company performance. Here we explore why employee engagement is so important and how you can improve it in your business.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesSME Business, Employee Engagement, Business Success, Improve Profitability, how to improve profit
Financial Forecast Modelling for SME Businesses
Financial Forecast Modelling for SME Businesses

Do you wish your business had a financial crystal ball?  Sadly they don’t exist but the closest thing in reality is a detailed financial forecast covering your medium to long-term plans.  By creating a financial forecast to quantify your business plan you will be able to see the likely financial outcome of achieving your goals and objectives.  It is an essential tool for a successful business but despite this, many SME businesses don’t have one.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesOutsourced FD, Part Time FD, SME Finance Director, Interim FD, Finance Director, Financial Modelling, SME Business
Why every SME business should have a Finance Director
Why every SME business should have a Finance Director

Every business, irrespective of its size needs financial strategy, clarity and control. Introducing an experienced and commercially-focussed Finance Director to your SME business will transform your finances. The good news is that high-calibre FDs are available part-time at a very affordable cost. That’s why every SME should have one.

Read More
Business AdviceSecantor Business ServicesOutsourced FD, Part Time FD, SME Finance Director, Interim FD, Finance Director