2025 has not been easy for Finance leaders. Market volatility persists. Economic uncertainty mounts. And for the 11th consecutive quarter, over 60% of CFOs rank cost-cutting as their top priority. And in the face of rising NICs, CFO confidence hits a 2-year low [Deloitte, 2025].

Not for Profits (NFPs) are under increasing pressure. In 2024, there were 4 million fewer donors than the year before [CAF UK Giving Report, 2025]. Government funding is falling, while staffing costs continue to rise due to increases in the minimum wage and National Insurance contributions.

Unprecedented responsibility has been put on the shoulders of the finance department in recent years. CEOs want it to drive business value more than ever. Indeed, a record 37% of finance leaders rate company growth as a top priority for their department [Deloitte, 2022]. 

As every high-growth CFO knows, securing the next round of investment conjures up as much excitement as it does anxiety. The exercise is hard work, hard won and all consuming. Achieving the best valuation takes forethought. On the one hand, knowing what the investor is looking for. And on the other hand, being able to demonstrate it.