Five minutes with… Colin Gathercole
It’s been just over six months since you joined Complete Commercial Finance – tell us how it’s been…
Its great being your own boss and the master of your own destiny, and being rewarded for the time you invest. It’s fantastic to be able to just get on with organising deals for clients, and not being distracted by the other requirements of a commercial bank.
What have you been working on?
My clients have been very varied, from those in the construction and development sector through to retail, engineering and restaurants. Lending enquiries have ranged from asset finance for vehicles and machinery to cashflow and commercial mortgages covering amounts between £20k to £40m.
How has this year’s events affected the market and what advice would you offer to businesses planning for 2023?
I would say hold your nerve and don’t get thrown by the current turmoil in the markets. Naturally review costs and margins to make sure you remain profitable and competitive and have robust management information in place to ensure you are aware of the financial performance of your business. Don’t wait for the accountant to tell you at the end of the year, it might be too late!
What’s the most important piece of advice you would give to companies who are struggling with changes to their business, financial or otherwise?
I would say seek out professional advisors. Taking advice from professionals can give you a clear direction and a path to success. Don’t let the business run you, as the old saying goes.
What innovations have you seen that have surprised or inspired you?
It’s the resilience of businesses that impresses me. The last few years have been hard with a pandemic followed by financial turmoil in the markets and rising costs would have sunk a lot of businesses, but many have adapted quickly and look well-placed for the recovery when that comes.
What’s the best thing about the job you do?
Having the flexibility to manage your own time, working without distractions and finding solutions for clients.
