This intensive three-day executive module is designed to build financial confidence and capability in managers who do not have a formal background in finance or accounting. Delivered by an experienced Durham academic, the course provides a clear, structured and highly practical introduction to financial and management accounting, enabling participants to make more informed decisions with financial implications.

 

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In today’s data-driven and performance-focused organisations, managers are increasingly expected to understand financial information, justify decisions and manage resources effectively. This course addresses a common skills gap by demystifying finance and accounting concepts and translating them into tools that can be applied immediately in the workplace. 

This course is ideal for managers, team leaders, project managers and professionals who are required to make or influence decisions with financial consequences but who do not have a finance background.

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Over three interactive days, participants will explore both financial accounting and management accounting, using real-world examples, applied exercises and structured discussions. Key areas include:

• Understanding and interpreting financial statements
• Assessing performance using financial ratios
• Cost behaviour and break-even analysis
• Budgeting and forecasting
• Investment appraisal and decision-making techniques

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

• Engage more confidently in financial discussions
• Analyse business performance using core financial tools
• Support budgeting, forecasting and planning activities
• Evaluate investment decisions using appropriate techniques

For organisations, this translates into stronger financial decision-making and better alignment between operational and financial objectives.

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The course will be held at Durham University Business School’s state-of-the-art Waterside Building, offering modern teaching spaces and an inspiring learning environment. Lunch will be included across all days, allowing participants to focus fully on learning and networking.

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Gary Dewey, Associate Professor of Accounting

Gary joined the Business School as an Associate Professor in Accounting in January 2019. Prior to joining Gary was a Senior Lecturer in Accounting and Finance at the University of Liverpool.

Gary has over 20 years’ experience working within industry for UK and global organisations and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (FCMA). Gary teaches a range of accounting and business subjects, including Management Accounting, Business Environment & Functions, Business Strategy and Corporate Governance.

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"A professional and engaging course with just the right balance of theory and practical application. Gary was excellent and highly approachable."

Richard Ballard, Nissan

"One of the best training courses I've attended. Context was spot on, and opportunity for practical application throughout, with industry examples that Gary provided was really valuable. Overall really engaging."

Jennifer Rycroft, North East Chamber of Commerce

"A really useful two-day course which will help me to ask the right questions and understand financial information I am given."

Dr Lynne Newcombe, University of Sheffield

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