Understanding financial information is essential for every director, not just those with a finance background. This practical one-day course builds the confidence and knowledge needed to interpret financial data and use it to make sound, evidence-based decisions.

Designed for directors, trustees, and senior managers in charities, social enterprises, and small organisations, the session demystifies financial statements, ratios, and reports. You’ll learn how to read a Profit and Loss (P&L) account and Balance Sheet, understand cash cycles, and see how finance connects with day-to-day operations.

The course also explores how company structure influences financial responsibilities and reporting. Participants will gain the tools to analyse competitor information, assess organisational health, and ask informed questions of finance professionals.

Content aligns with UK company law and the responsibilities of directors under the Companies Act 2006, ensuring an understanding of both compliance and good governance.

By the end of the session, you’ll feel equipped to interpret financial reports with confidence, challenge constructively when needed, and contribute more effectively to strategic planning.

Ideal for anyone in a leadership or governance role seeking clarity and control over their organisation’s finances.

Key Learnings

• Understand how to read a P&L and Balance Sheet
• Recognise how cash cycles affect operations
• Analyse, interpret, and evaluate financial data
• Use competitor and sector data for benchmarking
• Understand company structures and their financial implications
• Combine finance data with operational insight for better decisions

Directors and senior managers carry ultimate responsibility for the financial health of their organisation. Yet many come from non-financial backgrounds and feel uncertain when faced with figures and reports. This course bridges that gap by making finance accessible, relevant, and practical.

Through clear explanations and real-world examples, participants learn how to read and interpret key financial documents, including the Profit and Loss (P&L) statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow report. The training explains how these link together to show overall performance and sustainability.

The session also explores cash cycles and the timing of income and expenditure, helping participants anticipate pressure points and manage resources effectively. Attendees will gain insight into how to analyse competitor information, assess trends, and interpret data from both financial and operational sources (such as EPOS or project reporting systems).

The course references the Companies Act 2006 and the duties of company directors and charity trustees, highlighting accountability, transparency, and the importance of financial oversight. Participants are encouraged to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and build the confidence to engage fully in financial discussions.

By the end of the session, you’ll understand not only the numbers but also the story they tell, equipping you to make better decisions, support governance, and strengthen your organisation’s financial resilience.

This one-day course is ideal for directors, trustees, and senior managers who want to move beyond the jargon and gain genuine insight into how finance drives organisational success.

Open course per person             £117
In-house for up to 6 people       £507
In-house for up to 12 people    £539