This course is suitable for financial managers in small and medium sized private companies, including financial directors, financial controllers, chief accountants and management accountants.
The vast majority of companies in the UK are privately owned SMEs, and together they represent the most dynamic sector of the economy. The attractiveness of small and medium-sized privately owned businesses to the investment community is indicated by the vast sums under management in private equity funds. Unsurprisingly, a high proportion of accountants in industry are employed by, or are directors of, privately owned SMEs. On the other hand, finance theory and much financial management literature tends to be set in the context of the large, quoted company.
This course aims to go some way to restoring the balance by identifying not only the characteristic strengths of the privately owned SME, but also its potential weaknesses - such as inadequate corporate governance. The course goes on to outline a comprehensive structure of financial management for such businesses and to highlight opportunities to enhance their value.
This course will provide a greater understanding of the financial management and corporate governance needs of private companies. It will provide a framework for financial management which you can adopt or adapt to your requirements. You will also learn about how you might enhance the value of the company to its owners and help them to realise that value, practical ideas for coping with the current hostile economic environment and also you will get the opportunity to exchange views with others from the SME sector, and to discuss common problems and opportunities.