Diane Hull
Financial Controller - UK at DCL Corporation- Claim this Profile
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Bio
Nick Talib
Whilst working with Diane on a programme of work to deliver a new ERP System for Unity Partnership I always found her a very accessible and highly capable Finance Manager. She has a ‘can do’ attitude and instead of dwelling on the impact of issues she always focuses on ways to progress. Diane is an exemplary team leader, not averse to rolling her sleeves up and delving into the detail when necessary but never at the cost of loosing sight of her strategic objectives. She has a very calm and well considered style which is very engaging, this I suggest is rooted in her deep understanding of accounting controls and how best to deliver these at a senior management level. She was always a key contributor in Director level meetings we both attended whilst at project level she had a critical role in the review, feedback and signoff process for key project deliverables. I would welcome the opportunity to work with Diane again and believe she would add significant multifaceted benefit to any organisation requiring senior / director level finance skills.
Gordon Anderson
I have had the pleasure of working closely with Diane when she was working in the capacity of Interim Group Financial Controller at Unity Partnership Ltd as the company went through a very concentrated period of change primarily due to a significant change in ownership. The organisation needed to continue to operate in a very confident and consistent way to ensure services continued seamlessly, despite the entire financial system under which it had operated changing over just a few months, without all the information required being all readily available initially. Diane managed the transition from the previous system to a new model requiring from Diane a very calm, methodical yet approachable attitude which engendered the building of trust and confidence with new colleagues, resulting in all the information to build the new model and systems being much more forthcoming. A process which could have been very painful was remarkably smooth and painless. I have no hesitation in recommending Diane in a senior leading financial management position.
Nick Talib
Whilst working with Diane on a programme of work to deliver a new ERP System for Unity Partnership I always found her a very accessible and highly capable Finance Manager. She has a ‘can do’ attitude and instead of dwelling on the impact of issues she always focuses on ways to progress. Diane is an exemplary team leader, not averse to rolling her sleeves up and delving into the detail when necessary but never at the cost of loosing sight of her strategic objectives. She has a very calm and well considered style which is very engaging, this I suggest is rooted in her deep understanding of accounting controls and how best to deliver these at a senior management level. She was always a key contributor in Director level meetings we both attended whilst at project level she had a critical role in the review, feedback and signoff process for key project deliverables. I would welcome the opportunity to work with Diane again and believe she would add significant multifaceted benefit to any organisation requiring senior / director level finance skills.
Gordon Anderson
I have had the pleasure of working closely with Diane when she was working in the capacity of Interim Group Financial Controller at Unity Partnership Ltd as the company went through a very concentrated period of change primarily due to a significant change in ownership. The organisation needed to continue to operate in a very confident and consistent way to ensure services continued seamlessly, despite the entire financial system under which it had operated changing over just a few months, without all the information required being all readily available initially. Diane managed the transition from the previous system to a new model requiring from Diane a very calm, methodical yet approachable attitude which engendered the building of trust and confidence with new colleagues, resulting in all the information to build the new model and systems being much more forthcoming. A process which could have been very painful was remarkably smooth and painless. I have no hesitation in recommending Diane in a senior leading financial management position.
Nick Talib
Whilst working with Diane on a programme of work to deliver a new ERP System for Unity Partnership I always found her a very accessible and highly capable Finance Manager. She has a ‘can do’ attitude and instead of dwelling on the impact of issues she always focuses on ways to progress. Diane is an exemplary team leader, not averse to rolling her sleeves up and delving into the detail when necessary but never at the cost of loosing sight of her strategic objectives. She has a very calm and well considered style which is very engaging, this I suggest is rooted in her deep understanding of accounting controls and how best to deliver these at a senior management level. She was always a key contributor in Director level meetings we both attended whilst at project level she had a critical role in the review, feedback and signoff process for key project deliverables. I would welcome the opportunity to work with Diane again and believe she would add significant multifaceted benefit to any organisation requiring senior / director level finance skills.
Gordon Anderson
I have had the pleasure of working closely with Diane when she was working in the capacity of Interim Group Financial Controller at Unity Partnership Ltd as the company went through a very concentrated period of change primarily due to a significant change in ownership. The organisation needed to continue to operate in a very confident and consistent way to ensure services continued seamlessly, despite the entire financial system under which it had operated changing over just a few months, without all the information required being all readily available initially. Diane managed the transition from the previous system to a new model requiring from Diane a very calm, methodical yet approachable attitude which engendered the building of trust and confidence with new colleagues, resulting in all the information to build the new model and systems being much more forthcoming. A process which could have been very painful was remarkably smooth and painless. I have no hesitation in recommending Diane in a senior leading financial management position.
Nick Talib
Whilst working with Diane on a programme of work to deliver a new ERP System for Unity Partnership I always found her a very accessible and highly capable Finance Manager. She has a ‘can do’ attitude and instead of dwelling on the impact of issues she always focuses on ways to progress. Diane is an exemplary team leader, not averse to rolling her sleeves up and delving into the detail when necessary but never at the cost of loosing sight of her strategic objectives. She has a very calm and well considered style which is very engaging, this I suggest is rooted in her deep understanding of accounting controls and how best to deliver these at a senior management level. She was always a key contributor in Director level meetings we both attended whilst at project level she had a critical role in the review, feedback and signoff process for key project deliverables. I would welcome the opportunity to work with Diane again and believe she would add significant multifaceted benefit to any organisation requiring senior / director level finance skills.
Gordon Anderson
I have had the pleasure of working closely with Diane when she was working in the capacity of Interim Group Financial Controller at Unity Partnership Ltd as the company went through a very concentrated period of change primarily due to a significant change in ownership. The organisation needed to continue to operate in a very confident and consistent way to ensure services continued seamlessly, despite the entire financial system under which it had operated changing over just a few months, without all the information required being all readily available initially. Diane managed the transition from the previous system to a new model requiring from Diane a very calm, methodical yet approachable attitude which engendered the building of trust and confidence with new colleagues, resulting in all the information to build the new model and systems being much more forthcoming. A process which could have been very painful was remarkably smooth and painless. I have no hesitation in recommending Diane in a senior leading financial management position.
Experience
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DCL Corporation
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Canada
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Chemical Manufacturing
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100 - 200 Employee
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Financial Controller - UK
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Jan 2020 - Present
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Scientific Games - Gaming
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United States
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Gambling Facilities and Casinos
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100 - 200 Employee
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Project Accounting Manager
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Apr 2019 - Dec 2019
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Unity Partnership
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United Kingdom
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Outsourcing and Offshoring Consulting
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1 - 100 Employee
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Interim Group Financial Controller
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Jun 2018 - Feb 2019
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Medicines Discovery Catapult
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United Kingdom
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Biotechnology
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100 - 200 Employee
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Interim Head of Finance
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Jun 2016 - Oct 2017
Responsible for creating and setting up the Finance systems, processes and procedures for this newly formed business. Tasked with capturing best practice and promoting innovative working within the Finance Department to ensure that the Finance team provides a first rate service to Senior Management at all times. Responsible for the day- to- day management and control of the Medicines Discovery Catapult’s business finances and for the delivery of the Finance department’s main business objectives. A key player in the creation and development of the businesses 5-Year Delivery Plan – not only the Financial modelling aspect of the plan but also the Strategic direction of the business in other areas like IT Strategy, Recruitment Planning, Property and Project Management. An active member at Board Meetings presenting and providing up to date user friendly financials allowing the Senior Management Team to clearly see the current position and likely future direction of the business in financial terms. Responsible for identifying and implementing the Finance and Project Management system for the business that is fit for purpose and encourages innovative ways of working. External interface for the business on Finance matters with relevant bodies – Bank, Outsourced payroll provider, Tax Advisors, Funders, HMRC Show less
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Plater Chemicals Group
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United Kingdom
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Chemical Manufacturing
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1 - 100 Employee
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Group Finance Director
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May 2015 - Mar 2016
Responsible for ensuring the business was financially managed in a proactive and controlled manner. An active player in the Senior Management Team of the business ensuring that key business risks were identified and mitigated accordingly. Responsible for providing accurate, timely and relevant financial and performance information to the Director Team helping them make both short and long term strategic business decisions covering three UK sites. I reported directly to the Group Managing Director and was responsible for a total of 2 staff. My role covered aspects of the business’s financial matters including management and statutory reporting; budgeting and forecasting (including cash flow forecasting); development of systems, controls and processes; payroll; commercial support to the management team and all operational areas of the business; Responsible for managing key third party relationships – Bank, HMRC, Auditors, Pension Regulator, Reason for leaving – The long term direction of the Company changed significantly leading to a re-evaluation of the necessity for a full time FD position Show less
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Eastlands Trust
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Manchester, United Kingdom
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Interim Head of Finance and Information Management
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Oct 2013 - May 2015
A temporary assignment to ensure the financial well-being of the Trust, ensuring all compliance and statutory requirements are met, and that financial processes in operation within the Trust are robust, fit for purpose and fully compliant with audit regulatory guidelines. A key player in the Senior Management Team (SMT) of the Trust promoting commercial awareness and value-for- money thinking. Responsible for providing accurate, timely and relevant financial and performance data to the Board, CEO, SMT, Operational Management Team and the wider business community enabling them to implement short and long term strategic business decisions. To aid and support the Executive function to develop future strategy for sport and leisure provision within the Manchester region. Responsible for the integration of 2 distinct Trust Finance teams and the subsequent creation of new Finance and Management reporting systems. Manage motivate and lead a Finance team of 5. Responsible for the winding-up of Manchester Sport and Leisure Trust. Show less
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SJ Process Ltd
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Runcorn
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Interim Finance Director
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Mar 2013 - Jun 2013
A 12 week assignment to help introduce a Project Management Software System. Responsible for all initial set up of system and projects as well as the training of staff on key requirements to enable a smooth transition. A key player in the Senior Management Team of the business, aiding with HR, commercial awareness and business guidance. Responsible for all financial aspects of the business. Prior to my arrival the business did not have a Finance resource, – therefore, had to deal with backlog and try to implement significant change in a family owned business. Within 2 weeks completed a full financial appraisal of the business identifying and demonstrating the fact that the business was in financial difficulty requiring significant and immediate changes. Developed an investment brief that was used to try to attract cash injection or company buy out. Show less
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Place Group Ltd
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Education Administration Programs
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1 - 100 Employee
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Finance Director
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Feb 2010 - Mar 2013
An active member of the Senior Management Team of the business Responsible for all financial aspects of the Group Face of Finance for the business both at a Strategic and Operational level A key Partner supporting the CEO, MD, Senior Business Client Directors and Managers by providing financial information and interpretation, undertaking proactive analytical and other investigations, contributing to developing a better understanding of the key drivers of the business and improving operational performance. Provided accounting, reporting and all necessary financial expertise for the business as a whole A real drive for value at the bottom line, with a continued emphasis on revenue enhancement /protection and on cost saving opportunities. Provided proactive input into contract negotiations and contract decision making initiatives Solely accountable for the financial Due Diligence work - involving the exit of old shareholders and the introduction of new equity investment. Coordinated the annual audit and assurance report preparing all necessary year end schedules - required by external auditors Show less
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Lloyds Banking Group
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United Kingdom
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Financial Services
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700 & Above Employee
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Delivery Manager - Group Property Finance - Integration Project
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Oct 2009 - Feb 2010
Responsible for all financial aspects of Group Property office exit costs relating to the two banking groups Integration project Managed, motivated and lead a team of 4 qualified accountants who were responsible for providing professional financial advice and guidance to all that require it. Key deliverables in this role included; project cost capture, reporting of actual spend by office exit, providing proactive advice and guidance to project managers on the ground attempting to deliver complex go to solutions. Keeping abreast of likely forecasts of office exits highlighting overspends to original business case in a timely manner. Monitored and managed variances to project plan, in terms of costs, timings etc Designed & developed a robust reporting system which facilitated the reporting of ‘true’ benefits realized by the project. Senior Management Advisor – worked very closely with the senior management team ensuring that sound financial and commercial decisions were being pursued. Show less
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Crombie Concessions Limited
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Leeds, United Kingdom
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Finance Director/General Manager
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Feb 2008 - Jan 2009
Responsible for the day to day running of the business in terms of operational activity – Sales, Marketing & PR, Human Resources, Warehousing and Distribution, Design, IT, Quality, Finance, E-Commerce, Merchandising and Buying. Overall management of Retail Outlets – this was for 13 concessionary outlets and 9 independent stores within UK and Northern Ireland. Reporting directly to the private owner of the business. Strategic planning and forecasting for the business. This involved pursuing possible new relationships with potential concessionary partners or assessing the profitability of potential new outlets in various locations. Coordination and calculation of the annual budget based on strategic plans communicated by the owner. (Sales £7.6 million) Involved in the negotiation of prices with suppliers as well as resolving any quality or delay disputes with them in a timely manner. All aspects of HR management – recruitment of Senior Personnel, dismissals and disciplinary issues, training, development, introduction of SMART objective setting and monitoring for all key Managers as well as managing the overall consultation processes with respect to redundancies. Dealing with third party landlords re shop lease negotiations and terms of occupation. Primary contact for all customer services complaints ensuring they were dealt with in a professional and timely manner. Ad-hoc specific projects – including the planning and opening of new stores – in Belfast, Bristol, Leicester and Swindon Responsible for the coordination and communication of closure programs for stores. Actively managed and led stock reduction initiatives in an attempt to turn stock into cash without compromising the Crombie brand. Show less
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Deloitte
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Business Consulting and Services
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700 & Above Employee
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Financial Controller -- North Region
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Nov 2003 - Feb 2008
Delivered accurate and timely financial management information needed by the North leadership group and Finance and Legal to support the running of the business and strategic decision making. This included the preparation and analysis of monthly results, trend analysis and forecasting in addition to preparation of ad hoc project work required to support key business decisions. Worked with partners and managers to ensure client portfolios and receivables were managed effectively and the Firm’s targets were met – including coordinating and analysing the quarterly allowance review. Maintenance of financial control processes in the Region to ensure completeness and accuracy of accounting records and compliance with the Firm’s financial control procedures. Coordination and calculation of the annual plan based on policy, management expectations and external influences. Implementation of process improvements to ensure financial data is timely and accurate and continues to meet business needs. Actively took the lead on a major system change (SAP) – the Finance team were instrumental in making this happen with minimal disruption to the business overall. Manage, lead and motivate a team of Finance Assistants. Show less
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ALBION CHEMICALS LIMITED
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United Kingdom
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Chemical Manufacturing
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1 - 100 Employee
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Commercial Management Accountant
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Jun 1998 - Nov 2003
Work closely with the centralized Commercial department on ad hoc projects. Provided financial support to aid all commercial decision making Ad hoc Project work: Company Acquisition Setting up and maintenance of Contract Packing systems Liaising with external customers in contract negotiations Responsible for the internal training of the other 16 sites on the workings of the system and its importance Supply Chain Management Project Group Work Sales Account Managers Training Course Preparation & Presentation Involved in Tender Preparations Project leader for the reallocation of two distribution sites. Show less
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HAYS CHEMICALS LTD
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1 - 100 Employee
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Management Accountant
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Jun 1998 - Nov 2003
I was the accountant for four Albion Distribution sites. I played a key role in supporting and underpinning the General Managers at these sites. Played an integral part in strategic and operational planning as well as overall site decision making. Active member of the depot management team Make financial presentations at the monthly management meetings Develop management information of both financial and non-financial nature. Introduction of KPI reporting to all my distribution sites. Providing key management information, analysis and advice to demanding high calibre peers. Reviewed and recommended improvements to current controls and processes in order to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the distribution sites. Responsible for the management accounts and cash flow forecasting of these distribution sites. Investigate variances to budget discussing these with the Financial Controller, General Managers, Regional Managers and Senior Directors. Preparation of budgets and forecasting. Responsible for quarterly finance reviews with Board of Directors. Assist in Major Capital Investments plans. Ad hoc projects. Managed and developed a team of part qualified assistant accountants. Indirect responsibility for the management and training of the site stock controllers, the site purchase ledger person as well as the site credit controller. Preparation of sensitivity and “What if” analysis. Show less
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British Transport Police
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United Kingdom
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Law Enforcement
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700 & Above Employee
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Area Finance Manager
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Sep 1994 - Jun 1998
Control and preparation of the area budget - £8 million Preparation of monthly management accounts, including analysis of variances from budget and discussion of these with the Force Financial Controller as well as Senior Police Officers. Critical analysis and interpretation of the data to provide meaningful, actionable information as a basis for senior police management policy decisions. Ensure financial awareness of all police and civilian personnel within the area. Identifying weaknesses and suggesting improvements. Ensuring and maintaining high standards of internal and external control and security of financial systems in order to meet audit requirements. Control and administer the Area Payroll System ensuring that all statutory and internal control requirements are met. Active member of the Area Management Team. Involved in the strategic decision making for the Area. Responsible for the management of Area Projects. Direct supervision of one Assistant Accountant Show less
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Burton Menswear London
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United Kingdom
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Retail Apparel and Fashion
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100 - 200 Employee
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Trainee Costs Accountant
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Mar 1992 - Sep 1994
Responsible for maintaining the fixed asset register on database for Topshop and Topman, including Capital reporting for management accounts and depreciation forecasting. Control of total Branch running costs for Topman and Topshop as well as controlling Head Office Costs. Production of monthly branch reports for inclusion in the management accounts. Production and distribution of branch and head office cost reports as well as providing help desk facility to answer any queries from branch managers and budget holders. Reconciliation of balance sheet accounts and providing information for tax packs Show less
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Education
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The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants