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In this insightful episode of the FP&A Unboxed Podcast, host Tejas Parikh chats with Manoj Jain, Head of Finance at The Marbrook Centre & Ardale care homes group, an experienced finance professional and business leader. Manoj, with over 26 years in finance, shares his experiences as a CFO, especially after implementing Power BI and Aimplan in his organization. The conversation dives deep into the challenges and transformations that come with upgrading financial systems and reporting processes, while highlighting the strategic role of finance in SMEs. Manoj discusses how targeted realism in forecasting, driver-based budgeting, and collaborative planning have reshaped financial decision-making in his company.

This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals looking to elevate their approach to forecasting, reporting, and strategic business planning.

Key Takeaways

Targeted Realism in Forecasting: Forecasts must strike a balance between ambition and defensibility through scenario planning and sensitivity analysis.

Collaboration Over Control: Successful financial models are co-created with business partners who understand the key drivers of performance.

Effective Communication: Finance professionals need to not only build models but also confidently communicate and challenge assumptions.

Cashflow Visibility: In SMEs, cashflow management is crucial, daily visibility and adaptable models are key to survival.

Invest in the Build Phase: Rushing through the build of a financial model compromises credibility. Strong foundations are essential to withstand investor scrutiny.

Noteworthy Quotes

"Your forecast is right for now. It’s not a crystal ball, it's a living, changing tool." – Manoj Jain

"Driver-based planning has to be collaborative. It’s not top-down or bottom-up, it’s across." – Manoj Jain

"Don’t rush the build. If your model isn’t watertight, investors will drive a truck through it." – Manoj Jain

"We are owners, not renters, in finance, no matter if you’re fractional or full-time." – Manoj Jain

"Forecasting is both an art and a science, knowing how to structure and when to adapt." – Manoj Jain

Key Timestamps

00:00 – Coming up next & Call to Action

01:15 – Introduction to guest – Manoj Jain

03:51 – Choosing the Right Partner

05:30 – Before vs After Power BI & Aimplan

06:24 – Finance & COO Collaboration Shift

07:56 – Standardized Models & Automation

09:13 – Consolidation Challenges & Sector Complexity

10:38 – Variance Analysis Enabling Fast Decisions

12:06 – Scalability & Forecasting for Growth

13:35 – Biggest Win & Key Challenges

17:14 – Strategic Focus Through Automation

19:51 – Future of Finance & Broader Data Use

21:34 – What Makes a Great Transformation Partner

26:47 – Closing thoughts

FOLLOW OUR GUEST MANOJ JAIN ON:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manojfinance

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tejasparikh/

Website: https://aksharconsulting.co.uk/

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