Tanya Gilmore, Head of Finance at REID Lifting
From ensuring the REID team are paid on time to navigating through all of the government support schemes, Tanya Gilmore, Head of Finance at REID Lifting shares an insight in to her daily working life.
Working Day
My role covers all aspects of finance for the business – from preparing the monthly management accounts to reporting on margins and profitability. I’m responsible for preparing comprehensive budgets and forecasts, keeping a close eye on cashflow and of course for ensuring that the all-important payroll is completed.
When REID launched our US operation REID Inc at the start of 2020, I assumed financial responsibility for that business as well, and have really enjoyed learning about how the US tax and payroll systems differ from ours.
What my typical day looks like has obviously changed dramatically since the start of the pandemic. I’ve been based from home throughout, which means I’m now juggling home schooling with full time work and, like so many other people, relying on online tools like Teams to stay connected with my team and the rest of the business. I think we’ve actually all been pleasantly surprised at how productive and focused we’ve remained throughout.
I’ve obviously had to navigate all of the various government support schemes on behalf of REID and I’ve increased our focus on cash flow forecasting and credit control to ensure that we come out of this crisis in the best possible shape to take on the recovery.
HR comes under my remit as well and that has been taking up a lot more of my time. Everyone at REID has gone above and beyond to support the business and each other over the past few months and making sure that they are safe and protected has never been more important to us.
When did you join REID Lifting?
September 2019
What was your first job?
While I was studying for my GCSEs, A-Levels and Accounting and Finance degree, I worked on the checkouts at ASDA.
What businessperson do you admire/inspires you?
Martin Lewis, the Money Saving Expert. His knowledge is immense, and I think he’s a force for good in the world of finance.
What is your best business achievement?
I think it would have to be being made Head of Department at the age of 28.
What would you do if you weren’t in the industry?
I’d definitely still be working in finance -something like a mortgage advisor, helping people with their money.
Most useful/favourite gadget?
My iPhone – it’s a real lifeline at the moment.
Website/App you couldn’t live without?
My mobile banking app – I’m a typical finance person and I like to know exactly what’s going on in my accounts at all times.
Favourite DESTINATION/pLACE IN THE WORLD?
Cyprus is idyllic, and the weather is always fantastic.
Favourite hobby/pastime?
With two small children and a full-time job, I don’t really have much time for hobbies. When I do get some free time though, I like to go for a swim.