Case Studies

I had known the directors of Ultimate for some time through networking and so when their need for a replacement accountant arose, they came to me. I found, typically of many businesses they were using Sage but that was time-consuming and unwieldy for their creative business. I implemented Xero and set up simpler systems to provide up to date management information. The accounting time has been reduced and the paper has been reduced by use of emailed sales invoices.

“As a director of Ultimate, the ability to have access to our company finance at any time is invaluable as we grow the company”

Jon Walker, COO

The situation
Jennifer was running a fast-growing online business in the baby products sector. As sales increased, so did the complexity — systems, processes and financial decision-making all needed to keep pace with growth.

She wanted reassurance that the numbers were right, confidence in her decisions, and the ability to plan ahead — without losing momentum.

My role
I joined the business at an early stage to provide ongoing finance support and guidance as the business grew.

My role has evolved over time — from putting robust systems in place, to acting as a trusted adviser as new challenges arise. This includes ensuring financial information is reliable and meaningful, helping Jennifer think through decisions, and bringing in specialist expertise when needed.

The focus throughout has been on creating strong financial foundations, clarity, and confidence — so the business can grow sustainably.

This type of support is particularly valuable for growing businesses that want to strengthen decision-making as complexity increases.

“Sue joined our team around 12 months into our business journey and has been absolutely invaluable.  She took hold of our accounting practices and moved us on to Xero, ensuring all of our systems interfaced with ease, trained all staff on how to use the system and is on hand whenever we need advice on custom reporting or plug-ins that need lining  up with our Xero software.  Sue’s expert knowledge of start-ups has been invaluable — and she is exceptionally well connected, introducing us to specialists in areas such as export, business structures and VAT when needed“

Jennifer Unsworth, Director

I have worked with Nathan on a number of his businesses after being introduced when networking and finding we had contacts in common. Nathan’s latest business is chatbots, We Are Gabba. But no matter what the business, we set up Xero enabling us both access to the software via the cloud. Like many people Nathan likes up to date financial information on this business and Xero enables this.

“Starting any business is tough. Long hours, lots of obstacles and disappointments on the way as you look to build momentum. For me having a great team around me is vital if you are going to succeed. Working with Sue is great. Super reliable, solid and always there to provide support and advice. Without hesitation I see Sue as an important part of our team and Gabba’s success.”

Nathan Smith, Managing Director