Beverley Ackerley

Lead financial and commercial strategy within a family-owned engineering consultancy, working in close partnership with the Managing Director to drive sustainable growth and profitability.

• Define business objectives and commercial strategy aligned to growth targets.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting and margin control across projects.
• Negotiate supplier and service contracts, securing favourable commercial terms.
• Build and maintain long-term supplier and external partner relationships.
• Lead HR processes including recruitment, interviewing and contract management.
• Ensure compliance with legal frameworks and contractual obligations.
• Oversee annual accounts and management reporting.
• Align operational resources with commercial and contractual commitments.

Alongside my Finance Director role, I operated a self-employed interior design business from 2006 to 2020, maintaining direct involvement in sourcing, supplier management and design delivery within the interiors sector.

Established and managed an independent interior design business delivering full residential interior projects from concept development through to installation.

• Conducted in-depth client consultations, site surveys and needs analysis.
• Developed cohesive, design-led schemes incorporating furniture, lighting, rugs, soft furnishings and accessories.
• Created detailed mood boards and visual concepts tailored to client vision and budget.
• Sourced materials and products directly from manufacturers, trade suppliers and wholesalers.
• Negotiated pricing, production timelines and delivery schedules.
• Managed project budgets and tracked profitability.
• Coordinated supplier relationships and logistics from order through to installation.
• Developed bespoke soft furnishings, specifying materials, finishes and proportions.
• Oversaw installation, working closely with joiners, curtain makers and specialist trades.
• Delivered multiple concurrent projects while maintaining strong client relationships and commercial control.

Built and maintained long-term supplier relationships through regular attendance at trade shows and design events, including Chelsea Harbour, strengthening product knowledge and sourcing networks.

Appointed to lead the interior design function within a newly launched flagship store on Yarm High Street.

• Conducted client consultations and property surveys.
• Developed mood boards incorporating lighting, rugs, accessories and finishes.
• Created cohesive interior schemes aligned to client budgets and aspirations.
• Managed multiple client projects simultaneously.
• Sourced materials and furnishings from trade suppliers and manufacturers.
• Ensured stock availability and supplier performance to meet delivery timescales.
• Maintained profitability and contributed to building a five-star local reputation.
• Attended major design shows to develop supplier relationships and trend awareness.
• Led the interior design offering within the flagship store environment.

Progressed from Trainee Interior Designer to Interior Designer within an established interiors business.

• Conducted consultations and property surveys.
• Developed mood boards and full interior furnishing schemes.
• Sourced fabrics, furnishings, lighting and accessories aligned to client briefs.
• Liaised with suppliers to ensure quality and finish standards.
• Managed multiple projects concurrently from order through to installation.
• Built strong supplier relationships and maintained high client satisfaction levels.

• Supported preparation of annual accounts.
• Managed switchboard and front-of-house operations.
• Coordinated travel, meetings and board arrangements for partners.
• Assisted partners’ PAs with administrative support.