Demystifying management accounts: what the numbers are telling you

Management accounts are the internal financial reports that show how an organisation is performing in a given period (often month-by-month). They bring together key information such as income and expenditure, budget versus actuals, cash flow, and the reasons behind any variances. They’re designed to help with day-to-day decision-making.

Understanding how to read management accounts helps you spot what’s driving performance, ask better questions, and take action earlier; whether that’s reallocating budget, responding to slower-than-expected income, or explaining results clearly to colleagues and stakeholders.

In this webinar, Jo Diver, Finance Manager at the Arts Marketing Association, will demystify management accounts and walk you through the information you’re likely to see. You’ll learn how they’re put together, what the numbers are really telling you, and how to use them to make practical marketing decisions.

You will leave with an understanding of:

• What management accounts are (and aren’t) and how they differ from year-end/statutory accounts.
• How to interpret the key statements and metrics you’ll typically see: income/ expenditure, profit/loss, budget vs actuals, variances, and cash position.
• The questions to ask when results are off track so you can explain performance and decide what to do next.

Who it’s for:

Senior marketers, team heads and anyone who receives management accounts (or budget reports) and wants to feel more confident understanding what they mean and how to use them to make decisions.

How do I take part?

We will be using the online platform Zoom for this event.

Before booking, please read our online training checklist to ensure you get the most out of this training.

 If you have any access requirements, please contact sophie@a-m-a.co.uk

Trainer

Jo Diver | Finance Manager | Arts Marketing Association

Jo Diver is the Arts Marketing Association’s Finance Manager, and brings CIMA-qualified expertise to the heart of the AMA. With almost thirty years of experience in financial planning, budgeting and reporting, Jo has navigated the landscapes of global players like Deloitte and Philips as well as the unique environments of local charities and schools. Known for a collaborative approach, Jo works closely with staff to turn bold ideas into financially viable projects.