My passion in finance has always been what we can do with the numbers and how can we communicate them and use them to make great business decisions. It has led me to always taking a huge interest in the commercial and operational aspects of the companies I've worked in throughout my career. Getting a good and accurate set of numbers together is important but it only takes you so far. That next stage is what adds the value and is the crucial factor in business success.I qualified through CIMA nearly ten years ago and since then I have held leadership positions in a variety of businesses. I started my career in a private equity backed FMCG business where I gained 10 years of experience working my way up from Accounts Assistant to Financial Controller. This time included an 18-month secondment to head up the finance function of an overseas European subsidiary - an amazing experience that taught me so much and one that I'll never forget. Since then my most recent roles have involved leading and managing finance and non-finance teams in owner managed SMEs.I view one of my key strengths as my ability to build cross functional relationships and engage in effective business partnering with all functions. I always look to drive engagement with non-finance personnel through presenting financial information in a relevant and digestible way. My current remit extends to overseeing and leading the business's supply chain, HR and IT operations.Outside of my commercial career I am a keen supporter of non-profit and charitable organisations. I am proud to be a volunteer director of a community interest company that provides friendship, relationship and social activities for people with learning disabilities.