Simon Ainley
Simon is a Chartered Accountant with a University of Manchester background and a passion for helping ambitious businesses succeed. A committed charity trustee and mentor to budding entrepreneurs, he enjoys supporting people and organisations to realise their potential. Away from the world of finance, Simon has a love of theatre, is a devoted Bruce Springsteen fan and an accomplished photographer. He also retains a strong connection to rugby, having volunteered at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
Experience
- VC backed multinational engineering group
- 3 professional services businesses
- Large scale hospitality start up
- 5 varying property/construction companies
- AIM listed pharmaceutical company
- Very high growth private distribution business
- Multinational listed logistics provider
Specialism
- Understanding and improving cash flow and profitability
- Transforming finance functions: people, systems, and processes.
- Commercial negotiations with customers, suppliers and banks
- Managing stakeholder relationships
- Developing Key Performance Indicators appropriate to the size and activities of the business along with Management Controls and Information.
- Developing financial strategy with growth plans.
- Integrating acquired companies.
- Writing or appraising business plans for major projects or new subsidiaries/businesses.
What clients say
“Simon transformed our financial reporting and business planning processes.”
“Considerable commercial and leadership skills.”
“Combines financial expertise with exceptional business acumen.”
“Highest levels achieved on a constant and consistent basis.”
“He grasped our business very quickly and guided us in several operational areas – and not only finance.”
“Simon has a flair for operational and technical matters.”
“…the senior team found Simon to be the consummate professional; his unflappable and participative style complemented our own culture in a highly successful engagement.”
“We would not hesitate to recommend his services.”