Client Background

A growing construction-related company in Dublin engaged my Fractional CFO and Business Consulting services to bring financial clarity and structure to their expanding operations. Prior to my involvement, the company relied on a year-end accountant who produced management accounts on an ad-hoc basis, leaving gaps in financial oversight and decision-making.

Challenges

• Lack of structured financial reporting, with management accounts prepared inconsistently.
• Limited financial insight for the CEO, particularly in key areas like gross margin and operational efficiency.
• No clear strategic process engaging senior staff in long-term planning.
• Need for a scalable financial team to support the company’s continued expansion.

Solutions Implemented

1. Strengthening Financial Oversight & Reporting
   • Conducted regular business reviews and assessed management accounting practices to identify areas for improvement.
   • Enhanced the CEO’s financial understanding, particularly in areas that had previously received less attention.
   • Led the company to recognise the need for a specialised management accountant to ensure future scalability.
2. Introducing a Strategic Business Process
   • Implemented a structured strategic process, engaging senior staff in long-term business direction.
   • Improved staff alignment and accountability, ensuring that tactical actions aligned with broader company goals.
   • Created a framework that was welcomed by management and staff, giving the company a competitive edge over others in their industry.
3. Enhancing Gross Margin & Operational Efficiency
   • Conducted regular mentoring sessions with the CEO, with a focus on gross margin, a key focus area.
   • Contributed to the development a simplified workflow, clearly outlining responsibilities across the sales-to-delivery process, including assembly and installation.
   • Introduced a KPI monitoring system, ensuring continuous financial performance tracking and preventing complacency.
4. Preparing for Scalable Growth
   • Supported the company’s collaboration with Enterprise Ireland, advising the CEO on structuring their offering.
   • Introduced a specialist management accountant to take over monthly reporting and year-end processes, ensuring the financial function can scale with the business.

Results & Impact

– Improved financial transparency, with structured reporting and a scalable accounting function.
– Strategic alignment of senior staff, fostering accountability and long-term vision.
– Better operational efficiency, with a clear sales-to-delivery workflow.
– Stronger focus on gross margin, leading to improved profitability.
– Competitive differentiation, as the strategic planning process is not seen in their competitors.

By implementing financial structure, enhancing strategic alignment, and optimising operational efficiency, I have helped position this construction company for sustainable and scalable growth.