Why investing in finance teams helps build UK businesses

Building robust finance departments is critical to the UK economy’s resilience and sustainable growth.

According to the Office for National Statistics, UK business investment rose by 2.2% in Q1 2025, with finance teams playing a pivotal role in this environment.

The strategic contribution of finance teams, in particular senior finance leadership—CFOs, finance directors, and heads of FP&A—is vital, with accurate forecasting and agile planning helping businesses navigate an uncertain economy, cost pressures and market volatility. These leaders drive digital transformation by integrating AI and real-time data analytics to inform faster, evidence-based decisions.

A recent report by Wolters Kluwer found that 67% of UK finance leaders plan to implement AI in FP&A, aiming to boost agility and operational efficiency. This transformation is especially important for SMEs, which make up approximately 99.8% of UK businesses and accounted for around 52% of total private-sector turnover—estimated at £2.75 trillion in early 2024.

CFOs and Financial Directors can also support business owners across other areas of the business - from leadership to ESG - going beyond financial performance and ensuring transparent reporting that builds stakeholder trust and regulatory compliance.

“CFO’s should able to think strategically for every department within the business and make the right decisions at the right time”, advises our Co-Founder Gareth Cowan. “Having a long-term strategic plan that you, your CEO and managing director share is essential.”

A well-structured finance team is essential for the success of a UK business, with the ideal structure balancing efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and scalability.

By investing in their finance and accountancy teams and support, UK business owners can help focus their efforts on efficiently managing outgoing costs, while supporting other teams across the business, whose focus is to generate revenue.

“Today’s finance team is expected to play a central role in everything from digital transformation to sustainability initiatives, recalibrating the mix of skills needed to succeed”, states a recent insight piece from Grant Thornton.

“Unlocking value to achieve a future-fit finance team, and business more broadly, demands aligned KPIs, integrated people and financial data, and a shared vision for workforce investment and productivity.”

Ultimately, investing in skilled finance teams and visionary senior leadership drives productivity, investor confidence, and long-term competitiveness—making finance a cornerstone of sustainable growth in the UK economy.

With over 25 years’ experience, Trace can help source and secure accountancy and finance talent at any level. To help your business grow and to find out more, get in touch with Team Trace today.