In our latest interview, Leanne Gelderd, Finance Director at Distinct, shares insights garnered from 20 years in the sector and offers valuable career advice for early to mid-level finance professionals. She also reflects on her experience returning to work after maternity leave and observes new developments shaping the market.
As a CIMA-qualified leader, Leanne has collaborated with global brands such as Condé Nast and Chanel. As a member of Distinct’s board of directors, she currently oversees our financial operations in the UK and the US. Additionally, she plays a crucial role in our sustainability team, effectively supporting Distinct in achieving carbon-neutral certification and advancing our B Corp application. Read her story below.
How did your finance career begin?
I began my career as a Trainee Management Accountant at Condé Nast Publications. I was so excited to move to London and start working. I was also incredibly lucky as my colleagues included two inspiring female leaders (the Financial Controller and Finance Director), who taught me so much about succeeding in a commercial finance role.
I remember booking the CIMA course and studying for three exams each time. Alongside my job, I studied for three evenings a week, with Saturday and Sunday at college – but I loved it! After two and a half years, plus a breadth of projects, I became exam-qualified and ran a team of eight Management Accountants. I loved the business, the people, the projects, the forecasting and the social life.
What aspects of working in finance do you most enjoy?
I’m often asked why I chose the CIMA route into my finance career. I’m passionate about people and numbers, which matches my strongest skills. I didn’t want to be an Accountant per se, my choice was more about working with a diverse range of people on interesting projects.
Can you pinpoint other key moments in your career development?
After making a move that I believed would enhance my CV, working for a PLC in the Global Consolidation team, I quickly realised it wasn’t right for me. However, those six months were still valuable as I wouldn’t have known without trying first.
With six years’ experience, I joined Chanel as their Head of Management Accounts. From day one, I was completely immersed in the brand and I still favour it over any other. Finance was truly woven throughout the company, so I was heavily involved in a variety of exciting projects and met interesting people from different countries.
For example, some of my biggest projects included installing a new EPOS system in the boutiques, reviewing Paris buying sessions, implementing new forecast software in Hong Kong and presenting best-practice finance in New York, at a global conference. I enjoyed learning about the many aspects of luxury retail while personally adding value as a Finance Partner.
Do you have career advice for early-to-mid level finance professionals?
I genuinely believe that if you work hard, you’ll be noticed in any role. A very influential person in my life also taught me to always back myself; if I have a question, it’s worth asking.
Beyond that, building relationships and trust in the workplace by being accountable and always producing work to a high standard. In all finance jobs, exams are naturally important to develop a solid understanding, but in commercial finance, experience is everything. This builds with every new project, so get involved in as many throughout your organisation as possible. You must thoroughly understand your business and the market.
As a manager, help others thrive. Build a strong team and never fear them ‘chomping at your heels’ for your work. Instead, pass it down to them and push yourself to find the next challenge.
What should individuals seek from a new finance job or career move?
Overall, I advise people to find a business where they feel valued. For me, that means strong values, nice colleagues and a workplace that invests in my development, challenges me, provides autonomy and ultimately, is somewhere I enjoy going to each day.
Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. My stint at a PLC in a corporate role was an important lesson, as I now know that this environment doesn’t bring out the best in me. I learned so much from my time there and realised what direction I wanted to take my career.
How was your experience returning to work after maternity leave?
With four children, I’ve had varied experiences. I’m grateful for the people who encouraged me to slow down when my children were young. They helped me realise it was okay to enjoy being a mum, while recognising that the additional skills and experience motherhood brings are valuable in the workplace. They also gave me the confidence to put myself forward for promotions and ‘lean in,’ as Sheryl Sandberg advises in her book.
Has the finance sector changed since your career began?
Over the past twenty years, finance has become more prominent in many companies. I believe, due to the greater need for transparency, accountability and governance.
In the past, it was (incorrectly) seen by others as ‘number-crunching’ and halting progress. I’m excited that finance is now interlaced throughout organisations, partnering with business leaders across the workplace.
ESG measures are another new development and finance divisions often monitor these metrics. I deeply enjoy working on this area at Distinct, understanding our carbon footprint, reducing our business’ environmental impact and working with our partners to devise and implement improvement plans. Slowing down doesn’t mean stepping out and I’m pleased to work here as a Finance Director on a part-time basis.
Thank you to Leanne for sharing your story, advice and insights with us.
How Distinct can support your finance career goals
If you’re looking for your next finance role, our recruiters offer expert guidance on the market and career-advancing opportunities to align with your ambitions. We’ll support you at every stage, from your consultation to interviews and managing job offers. Contact us today or browse our finance jobs board.
Alternatively, if your business is looking for experienced finance professionals to expand its team, please tell us your hiring requirements or browse our live candidate portal.
