Role at Rise at Seven

As Financial Controller at Rise, I lead the Finance function, keeping us commercially sharp as we scale at speed. From forecasting and reporting to budgeting and risk management, I partner with teams across the UK and US to make our boldest ideas backed by solid numbers and smart decisions. I translate the numbers into insight, challenge assumptions when needed, and work closely with the Senior Leadership team to keep us commercially focused and forward-thinking. Finance might not always be glamorous, but it’s what keeps the rocket fuel flowing.

Where did it all start for you?

I’ve always been creative at heart. Growing up, it was photography, dance and sport that kept me busy. I spent more time painting canvases than balancing books, and took great pride in getting acrylic on everything except the actual canvas. Finance wasn’t something I planned or ever felt particularly skilled in, but I landed a local temp job in Finance to support caring for my autistic sister at home with my family. I quickly realised I had a knack for fixing things. Not just numbers, but systems, processes and problems that slowed people down. That first role sparked something: a love of untangling the messy stuff, finding clarity in the chaos, building better ways of working. My creative background still shapes how I think: curious, solution-driven, and always looking to improve what’s already there (even if it is a colour-coded spreadsheet or two). Over time, that foundation shaped a career I’ve grown into and genuinely enjoy.

Experience so far:

With over a decade spent in creative agency environments, I’ve gained a deep, end-to-end understanding of the finance function. From hands-on operations to high-level strategic planning, I’ve worked across every layer of finance to help businesses scale with confidence and rigour. My experience spans financial reporting, commercial modelling, revenue recovery and strategic forecasting, while overseeing financial workstreams for brands like Glenmorangie, Hilton, Volkswagen and Busy Bees. Along the way, I’ve rebuilt systems, coached teams and embedded financial thinking into every corner of an agency, focused on making finance feel less intimidating and far more impactful. That theme runs through my experience with a very clear goal: finance should empower creativity, not restrict it, and the right insight, delivered calmly and clearly, changes everything. That’s what I set out to achieve, however I can.

What I’m best at:

I’m known for being calm under pressure, commercially focused, and relentlessly meticulous. Whether it's building models, driving efficiencies, business partnering or simplifying complexity for stakeholders, I make sure decisions are backed by insight and built for long-term impact. I’m a firm but fair leader, and I believe the best financial decisions are data-informed, driven from a mix of clear thinking, collaboration and empathy.

What I’m known for:

Spreadsheets, strong coffee and saying it how it is. I’m known for being a straight-talking, process-loving girlie who brings structure without slowing things down. Compassionate but clear, I balance high standards with a lot of heart and I’ll usually be the one turning big ideas into action plans (colour-coded, naturally). I show up with drive, dedication and a decent gin recommendation.

Strong opinions I have about my craft:

Profit and people aren’t in competition, one protects the other.

Clarity under pressure is more powerful than speed.

Fun fact:

I grew up as a total tomboy: football-obsessed, always outdoors, and allergic to anything remotely girly. I’ve mellowed slightly, but the competitive streak definitely stuck. I competed in athletics for Cheshire County and under-18s football. These days, I love to walk, hike, unplug in nature and spend as much time as I can with my beautiful family and friends. I’m passionate about giving back to the community and always looking for new ways to learn, grow and push myself forward.