When your accounting has become nothing more than a box-ticking exercise, and deadlines are consistently slipping through the cracks, it’s a sign that something needs to change. This is how my fractional finance director service helped one business move from surviving to thriving.
The Breaking Point
Their situation had deteriorated gradually. Filings were being completed late. The accounting work had been stripped back to bare the minimum for compliance. The systems in place were outdated and completely unsuited to where the business wanted to go next.
“Things were getting filed late and we just slipped into compliance,” the client recalls. There was no proactive advice, no forward-thinking financial support, and certainly no structure or clarity around the numbers that should have been driving business decisions.
Without proper systems or strategic guidance, the business owner lacked confidence in their financial processes. They were stuck in a reactive cycle, dealing with problems rather than planning for growth.
Finding the Right Partner
As we belonged to the same networking group, we had a chance to talk about what he wanted for his business, and where he felt things were going wrong. I love to learn about how businesses are operating, having spent years working in Airbus as well as accountancy practices. I felt I could help the business and suggested a more formal meeting which led to me being taken on as Fractional Finance Director.
The Transformation Process
Over the course of two meetings, we completed the onboarding process. We transferred all systems, resolved outstanding inconsistencies, and set everything up for a more professional and structured financial workflow.
“Kath has absolutely worked like a trooper,” the client explains. The dedication was evident. Every detail was addressed, every loose end tied up. This wasn’t about simply moving files from one place to another. It was about building proper foundations for sustainable growth.
The new system is properly organised, creating a strong, positive impression with customers. Invoices and payments now run automatically and reliably, without any manual intervention required.
“I feel super confident. I don’t have to touch it now,” says the client, highlighting the peace of mind that comes from having systems you can trust.
Beyond Basic Bookkeeping
My new client’s experience demonstrates the difference between basic compliance work and genuine fractional finance director support. It’s the difference between someone who processes numbers and someone who asks questions, shows curiosity, and provides guidance that looks beyond today, towards your goals and aspirations for the business.
“The extra time and curiosity you get with Kath is what makes the difference,” the client notes. This isn’t about filing returns on time (though that’s now happening reliably). It’s about having a financial partner who understands your business goals and helps you build towards them.
Measurable Results
The transformation delivered concrete improvements:
- All systems successfully transferred and reorganised
- Outstanding issues resolved quickly and clearly
- Automated invoicing and payment collection operational
- Significantly improved confidence in financial processes
- Enhanced customer experience through professional systems
- Strong foundations established for new revenue goals
Looking Ahead
With organised systems in place and the accounting work about to begin properly, the business is now positioned for strategic growth. The client is focused on reaching new revenue goals, supported by my proactive approach.
The foundation is set for an efficient financial strategy that will support both business expansion and customer satisfaction. No more late filings, no more reactive scrambling, no more uncertainty about the numbers.
This transformation shows what becomes possible when you move from basic compliance to strategic financial partnership. With the right systems, the right support, and the right person asking the right questions, businesses can shift from survival mode to growth mode.
If your finances feel like they’re holding you back rather than propelling you forward, perhaps it’s time to reconsider what good accounting support should look like. Get in touch on 03333 449270 or book an appointment through my Calendly link.
