Strategic Finance (EDP event) Event

Programme Overview

Finance summary

Finance continues to dominate the business pages. The aim of this programme is to de-mystify some of the jargon and provide practical and very current examples of how financial information can contribute to understanding the state of a business, both in the past and in the future.

Topical case histories will be visited and forensically investigated to illustrate the impact on strategic decisions informed by rigorous financial considerations and how they led to very successful outcomes. We will also investigate the impact of poor financial understanding and application which led in some cases, to very undesirable outcomes. A diagnostic designed to help participants self-evaluate their knowledge of financial topics will be used to emphasize areas of potential development.

Programme summary

This 2 day residential programme will provide the participants with unique insights and collateral alongside expert input to explore the complex interconnected financial considerations that Board members need to tackle. Through sharing key challenges, discussing good practice and reflecting on current thinking, this programme will enable the participants to develop an action plan to improve their contribution to strategic decisions that require sophisticated financial acumen.

Key Learning Outcomes

This participative and interactive programme will enable the participants to:

• Gain a better understanding of financial statements
• Be aware of how reported financial results can be impacted by accounting policies and regulatory requirements
• Be able to participate in a discussion on financial issues in business.
• Be better informed how financial information contributes towards business decision making.

The group will influence the agenda by their questions:

• The top level financial topics included will be:
• Understanding the purpose, form and contact of financial information - How to read a financial report.
• Funding the business - How much should a business borrow?
• Making investment decisions - How much should a business invest?
• Currency Management - To what extent should a business protect its currency flow?
• Acquisitions - How do we value a business?

These are highly participative sessions. The participants will be provided with tools, frameworks and challenge from fellow participants and the tutor to help them better understand strategic finance and will include many opportunities to apply learning to their live workplace challenges.

Cost: £1000 plus overnight accommodation at Chilworth Manor if required