12 Feb How Finance Teams Can Help Keep The Economy Moving
Even in cautious markets, Finance functions have more influence than you sometimes realise.
1, Shift from Scorekeeper to Strategic Partner
Finance can:
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Model growth scenarios instead of just cost controls
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Provide data that enables confident investment decisions
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Stress-test expansion plans rather than defaulting to “no”
When Finance enables calculated risk, businesses move forward.
2, Improve Cashflow Discipline
Cashflow is oxygen for the work economy.
Finance teams can:
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Tighten credit control
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Review payment terms
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Encourage prompt supplier payments
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Improve forecasting accuracy
When businesses pay on time, SMEs survive. When SMEs survive, employment stays strong.
3, Invest in Systems & Efficiency
Automation, AI tools, better reporting systems, these don’t just cut cost.
They:
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Free up time for commercial analysis
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Improve real-time decision making
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Increase productivity without increasing headcount
Productivity growth = economic growth.
4, Develop Internal Talent
Instead of freezing development:
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Up skill finance teams in commercial partnering
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Build data literacy
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Encourage cross-functional exposure
Stronger finance professionals lead to smarter business decisions. And that confidence filters through the organisation.
5, Hire Strategically, Not Re-actively
Even in slower markets, targeted hiring can:
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Prevent burnout
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Add specialist skills (FP&A, systems, transformation)
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Support growth initiatives
The cost of under-resourcing Finance often shows up later, in missed opportunities or compliance risk.
6, Drive a Growth Narrative Internally
Finance leaders influence tone.
If Finance communicates:
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Clear performance metrics
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Transparent forecasts
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Constructive improvement plans
It builds confidence at board level and across the business.
Confidence drives action.
The Bigger Picture
Finance departments sit at the center of:
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Investment decisions
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Cost management
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Growth planning
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Risk appetite
Finance are not just responding to the economy, they are shaping it.
A strong, proactive Finance function doesn’t just protect the downside.
It enables responsible, sustainable growth.