Speaker: Diane Leacock, Principal, East of England South

What was the key driver for leaving your previous role?
Diane Leacock: The key driver for leaving my last full time FD role, was basically to obtain more flexibility. I really, really valued and cherished the flexibility that a part time career could give me because I had so many things that I wanted to do, apart from just being in office from 9am 'til 9pm. And, that's what propelled me into making that big decision to leave.

What was it about the FD Centre that attracted you?
Diane Leacock: What attracted me to the FD Centre was the ability to add real value to companies seeking to grow to scale. And I knew that I had those skills I could offer those to business owners. In addition, I knew that the FD Centre was made up of hundreds of finance directors from all over the world and that was a network into which I could tap into to add even more value to potential clients. So it was that team environment that really helped me to make the decision to join, because I was getting my independence and flexibility but still not losing that sort of team effect. And for me that was a real huge plus.

How have you found it working with the FD Centre?
Diane Leacock: Working with the FD Centre has really been a great experience for me and hopefully for my clients as well. I have been able to provide that strategic insight and to the businesses that I'm working with and also the financial expertise which propels them to the next level. And it's something perhaps they would not have received had they not, sort of engaged with the FD Centre So all in all, I think it's been a win win situation.

What are the advantages of working in the FD Centre team? Why not go it alone?
Diane Leacock: The advantages of working in the FD Centre team are many. The fantastic ability to be able to tap into this huge network of like-minded individuals who can provide expertise that you might not have. So it's a really great resource to draw on. Working as an independent, while very tempting is not the same. You're on your own, you have to be the expert in every single thing and that's not possible really. Whereas with the FD Centre, the Sky is the limit, in a sense because you will find someone in your network who will be able to answer that difficult question So all in all, it's a win win situation for the Finance Director and for the clients.

What would you say to someone thinking of joining the FD Centre?
Diane Leacock: To anyone thinking of joining the FD Centre, I'd say join, it's a great experience. You'd have the work life balance that you've craved and you'll have the opportunity of working with some amazing clients and helping them on their journey. If you have any doubts, I think it's a great experience for you to investigate further by speaking to some of the current FDs who are part of the FD Centre This ever growing family, so join up, you've got nothing to lose.

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