"The average FD's role permeates every nook and cranny of an organisation."

Planning, analysing, preparing accounts, monitoring business performance, keeping tabs on cash flow, overseeing budgets (and ensuring that the company adheres to them). The average finance director has a vital and strenuous role that permeates every nook and cranny of an organisation.

If it involves money then the FD is nearly always a business owner’s first port of call, especially when it comes to miraculously finding pots of funding to support the next phase of growth. From the perspective of the business owner, the FD often knows infinitely more than they do about finance, that is why they are employed. When such calls come for business funding, the FD will do their very best, but they are straying into an area where deep and recent experience pays dividends.

What the average FD is unlikely to know is that, during the past decade the alternative lending market has emerged to supplement the traditional banks - it is already worth an incredible £6.26bn* thanks to rapid growth in the number of providers and product ranges – and the private equity market has never been so diverse and active.

However, preparing the business to meet the exact requirements of this diverse range of funders (for example we work with over 200 ), all with differing nuances, is an ominous task for any FD. Pricing for funding has never been so volatile so making sure that you have achieved the right deal for the business has never been more challenging.

Independent. Transparent.

So, be nice to your FD and don’t expect them to catch up with this fast moving market - partner them with an expert. This is where we come in. As independent financial advisors we take a whole market approach when it comes to finding funding for your business. New products and funders emerge on a regular basis and we can guide you through the options with complete independence and transparency.

We work with your FD, not against them. They are great at what they do, we are great at what we do. Together we will deliver the right solution to fund your business or transaction.

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If you'd like to discuss how Shaw & Co can help you sell, buy or fund the growth of a business, please book a meeting here

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*Data source used: AltFi - Alternative Lending State of the Market Report 2020

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