Transformation series: Delivering a finance function transformation

Neil Cutting FCA, Transformation Director, Oracle Corporation Inc. 

Qualifying with PWC, he moved into global finance leadership roles with Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Mars and Jacobs Solutions Incorporated. Neil spent 17 years at Jacobs (a Fortune 250 company), where he was VP of Finance. His experience included Divisional CFO, International Accounting Director and Transformation Director.

Neil has consistently been drawn towards helping fix business problems which require transformation. This started at PWC in Corporate Recovery, turning around loss making operations at HPE and at Jacobs, fixing failed acquisitions, driving finance function global re-organisations. These experiences enabled Neil to be seconded to the Ministry of Defence to lead the finance transformation programme.

In addition to his international career, Neil has been an active volunteer for ICAEW, including being a member and President of the West of England Board, Chair of the Aerospace & Defence CFO Forum, a member of the Business Committee and in 2023, was elected to ICAEW Council.

Neil is passionate about helping business leaders understand simple methodologies for delivering complex transformation programmes, resulting in a series of successful articles for ICAEW and the “Cutting through Boardroom Challenges” series on Accounting Web. He also guest lectures on strategic performance at the University of Bath, one of the top business schools in the UK.

Jeremy Babel, Finance Transformation Director, GroupM
Jeremy is an accomplished finance leader with a passion for transforming organisations within the dynamic media sector. With over 15 years of invaluable experience, Jeremy's journey began at Universal Studios, where he trained as a chartered accountant. Throughout his career, he has played integral roles at NBCUniversal, All3Media, and Framestore, gaining expertise in integrating acquisitions, orchestrating expansion initiatives, and guiding businesses through their next growth phase.

In July 2023, Jeremy embarked on a new adventure with GroupM UK, where he leads the finance transformation portfolio. Jeremy thrives on guiding cross-functional global teams through intricate projects aimed at enhancing organisational efficiency and growth. His expertise in integration, expansion, and transformation has propelled businesses forward, making him a trusted advisor in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of finance in media.

Andrew P Kakabadse, BSc MA PhD AAPSW FBPS FIAM FBAM
Professor Andrew Kakabadse is Professor of Governance and Leadership at Henley Business School and Emeritus Professor at Cranfield School of Management. He was a Board Member on boards of ABIS and Winsor Leadership Trust. He was Visiting Professor at the University of Ulster, Macquarie University, Australia. Andrew’s research covers boards, top teams and the governance of governments. He has published over 47 books, 88 book chapters, over 250 articles and 18 monographs. He is Advisor to the UK Parliament and numerous corporations, NGOs and other governments.