E132: Driving Growth through Finance Transformation

In this episode, we sit down with Phillip, our Group Finance Controller, to discuss his first six months at NEXT and the dynamic world of large scale corporate finance. Phillip shares his journey from training in London to leading a team of 17 at our Head Office, offering a transparent look at what it takes to manage the numbers for a growing global business.We explore the "roll your sleeves up" culture that Phillip discovered upon joining, where collaboration and collective success take priority over individual egos. Phillip provides fascinating insights into the complexity of international growth and navigating global tax and currency regulations. He also discusses NEXT’s major finance transformation project, including the implementation of new systems to drive better business insights.The conversation covers how the acceleration of AI and automation is removing mundane tasks, allowing our finance professionals to focus on work that truly adds value. Beyond the office, Phillip talks about balancing a high-level career with family life and finding the right support system in Leicestershire. Whether you're interested in the rigor of year end results or the human side of leadership, Phillip’s perspective highlights why finance at NEXT is about much more than just the bottom line.Watch the full episode to learn how we’re taking on the future of finance.00:00 The relentless pace of finance at NEXT01:36 Impact and rigor: The role of Group Finance02:46 Navigating the milestones of year-end results03:31 Phillip’s journey: From London to NEXT05:36 Why data and insight drive better business decisions07:36 A fresh perspective: Moving to Leicester for family09:59 The pride and unique culture of the NEXT team11:51 Global opportunities and the complexity of international growth14:16 Navigating different tax rules and currencies15:45 The finance transformation: Implementing new systems17:31 How technology has evolved from paper to digital18:50 The impact of AI and automation in finance21:02 The learning curve of building new relationships22:55 Combining long-term expertise with new ideas24:41 Leading and developing a team of 1727:30 The standout "roll your sleeves up" culture29:42 From small offices to the energy of Head OfficeDon't forget to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to receive updates on everything Life at NEXT! 📣Pursue your ambition and join the NEXT team 🚀 https://shorturl.at/EvmwqFollow us!Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeatnextTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lifeatnextFacebook: www.facebook.com/lifeatnextLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/lifeatnext#LifeAtNEXT #LetsTakeItOn