This week, we sat down with Serena Humphrey, Hallam’s new Finance Director.

Using her extensive experience – particularly with a solid expertise in agencies – Serena explains how she aims to support our ambitious growth plans, contribute positively to Hallam’s future and why she wanted to join our team.

Hi Serena – welcome to Hallam! Tell us a little about your background. 

I’ve been working in finance for 30 years and set up my own business in 2000 to give small companies a high quality commercial level of finance support. For the last 10 years, I’ve been working as a professional finance director, providing both financial coaching and training to fast growing and ambitious companies across the UK.

Wow, very impressive! So what does your new role at Hallam entail?

It’s a far reaching role that means I get to be involved in every part of the business: everything that every member of the team does has a wider financial impact. 

I’m very focused on the strategy and implementing a strategic management framework to support our growth plan. It’s my job to make sure we stay on track and to be looking several steps ahead, whilst achieving our monthly and quarterly profit and cash targets.

Other than the variety of benefits Hallam offers its employees, what initially drew you to working here? 

Susan Hallam (Hallam’s founder) and I started our businesses around the same time and so I sort of grew up with her, getting to know her through the networking circuit. I’ve always massively admired Hallam and they’ve always been at the top of my “most wanted client” list!

I love the energy, the passion and how they’ve built their reputation as one of the best agencies in the UK. 

The last few years have seen many changes across the business sector and the way we work. In a period of undulating change, which financial principles do you still hold true?

What’s interesting is that although the world of work has changed forever, the same financial principles hold true for any business, of any size, in any sector. In fact, having seen just how quickly the economic climate can change, they are more important than ever.

My top financial principles are:

  • Always have your taxes set aside in a separate account
  • Keep at least 3 months’ worth of overheads as buffer cash in a separate account
  • Always work to a strategic budget that you update regularly
  • Have a weekly flash report that reports the future so you never get any surprises

Very insightful, we’ll definitely keep these in mind! What do you enjoy most about your role?

The people! The Hallam culture and management team are a dream to work with. I also love the fact I get to be involved in so many things and have the chance to make a real impact on the future of the business. I’m very proud to be part of the management team.

 

Fancy joining our team? We’ve got lots of exciting opportunities – have a look at the full list here.


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