Finance Archives - Page 2 of 25

From Numbers to Culture: Patrick Speek, Interim CFO, Shares Insights on Private Equity

In this interview, we speak with Patrick Speek, interim CFO, about improving business performance and all that it entails.

A Boardyear at Asset | Financials: Chairman & Treasurer

Board Year

Maaike van der Hulst As chairwoman, I am responsible for policy, communication with the university, and other parties such as financial study associations. That may sound boring, but it’s actually incredibly fun. I represent the association to these parties, which allows me to accomplish a lot. After all, we work closely with the university to promote our events. In addition to these tasks, I coordinate the two most exciting committees within our association: the alumni committee and Asset Financials Investments. With the alumni committee, we organize three great events per year for our former members so they can stay in touch. The schedule includes two annual dinners for a group of more than 50 alumni and a networking boat event. Furthermore, Asset Financials Investments holds weekly meetings to improve its portfolio, where I participate as a coordinator. In this article, I will elaborate on my responsibilities as chairwoman of Asset | Financials. Who am I? I am Maaike van der Hulst, 23 years old. I was born and raised in Zoetermeer, a beautiful city in the Randstad. In September 2020, I started my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at the Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam, where I had a great time. However, due to COVID-19, I never lived in student housing there. That’s why, at the end of my studies, I decided to look for a university where I could pursue a master’s in Finance and also experience student housing. After starting my studies, my housemates took me to the Asset Kick-off party. In January, I joined a committee at Asset | Accounting & Finance: the Financial Business Dinner, the largest event we organize, together with three other committee members. Why did I choose a board year? Before I became an active member of Asset A&F halfway through the first year of my master’s, I never had a clear idea of what a board year at a study association entailed. Because of this, I had never seriously considered it. However, when I got involved with Asset | Accounting & Finance during my master’s, I quickly discovered how social it was and how many people you get to meet. Shortly after joining, I went to the lustrum event, where I initially knew no one but quickly made friends. It was a great way to take a break from studying, as the Master’s in Finance is quite challenging. Moreover, during formal events with companies, you get the opportunity to explore the job market. After attending the lustrum event and nearing the end of my master’s thesis, I felt like I had missed out on fun activities during my bachelor’s. I had only experienced half a year of it, and I wanted more. I also felt that I could develop myself further before entering the job market by interacting with various stakeholders such as companies, the university, and the management team. Finally, companies find it highly valuable to see a board year on your CV because of the responsibility you carry for an entire year. What does the role of Chairwoman entail? As chairwoman, I am responsible for overall policy. This means I review our event schedule with the university during monthly meetings. I also keep them updated on how events are progressing, and we assist each other where needed. Additionally, I communicate every two months with financial associations across the Netherlands during our FAN meeting, where we share tips and coordinate policies with partners. I also coordinate two committees: the alumni committee and Asset Financials Investments. The alumni committee organizes elegant dinners and a fun activity each year for graduates. I also have weekly meetings with our investment club, Asset Financials Investments—a group of 45 enthusiastic students who manage their own portfolio and attend guest lectures from companies. Together, they maintain a stock portfolio and regularly pitch new stocks during meetings. Additionally, they participate in case competitions and workshops. On behalf of our association, I arrange these guest lectures and maintain corporate contacts. These are two very different committees, which makes coordinating them both exciting and diverse! Besides my roles within my own board, I also hold a position on the general board of Asset, known as Asset General. Here, I serve as treasurer, managing all the financial transactions within Asset. And let me tell you—that’s a lot! Asset General itself organizes a few events each year, such as the Asset Kick-off, Asset Pre-Carnival, Big Informal, and the Champions League. I handle the bookkeeping and payments, ensuring that we can afford certain expenses—like extra beer during Pre-Carnival! This role takes about one to two days per week because I attend the General Board meetings every Tuesday. In these meetings, we discuss topics such as event organization, budgeting, and Asset’s overall promotion. What have I truly learned this year? Many people ask me why I chose to do a board year after graduating. One reason, as I mentioned earlier, is for the great parties and unforgettable memories—but of course, it’s also about personal development. You don’t learn everything in lecture halls, even after completing a master’s degree. Being responsible for an event, communicating information effectively, and speaking in front of large groups—including companies—are all valuable skills. A board year teaches you a great deal on both a personal and professional level. You also face challenges that require you to manage stress effectively and maintain oversight. Additionally, you learn how to work intensively with a team and how crucial good communication is. We constantly keep each other informed about what we are working on and any challenges we face. This helps us stay sharp and support one another. You also realize the importance of setting boundaries when things become overwhelming and learning to ask for help when needed. Advice for my successors. At first, a board year can feel hectic, and it may take some time to find your rhythm. But don’t stress about it too much. You always have your fellow board members to support you, and it’s completely normal to have a learning curve at the beginning. Everyone

How numbers create opportunities at Van Oers

Uncategorized

What is it like to work at an accountancy firm that goes beyond just crunching numbers? At Van Oers, collaboration and innovation are at the core of everything we do. Over the years, the organisation has evolved from a traditional accountancy firm into a full-service advisory firm. As a result, the firm assists clients not only with financial administration but also with issues concerning sustainability, investments, and business acquisitions. Our advisors utilize financial insights to offer clients tailored guidance, collaborating closely with their Accountant or Controller. For that reason, seamless teamwork between departments at Van Oers is key. In an interview with Rick Frijters (Assistant Controller) and Pieter Baart (Corporate Finance Advisor), both working at Van Oers, we discussed their career paths, cross-departmental teamwork, and what makes working at Van Oers unique. Numbers as a foundation, different outcomes Rick and Pieter both studied at Avans University of Applied Sciences, following nearly identical degree programs in Accountancy and Finance & Control. They both had a knack for numbers, but it wasn’t until they entered the workforce that they discovered just how diverse the finance field can be and which direction suited them best. Rick started his career in Van Oers’ Accountancy department but later transitioned to the Finance & Control department, where he now works as an Assistant Controller. His main responsibilities include financial administration and budgeting for clients. Reflecting on his decision to shift from Accountancy to Finance & Control, he says: “As an Accountant, you focus mostly on the past, reviewing financial statements from previous years. At the Finance & Control team, we work with a company’s current financial position and adjust strategies to meet budget goals. I found that proactive and strategic approach much more appealing. Van Oers gave me the opportunity to explore different roles and determine what suited me best. Career paths here aren’t rigid — you can develop and grow within different departments.” Pieter Baart works as a Financing Advisor in the Corporate Finance department. He helps clients secure funding for their investments by analyzing financial data, creating business cases, advising on financing options, and ensuring deals are finalized. Describing his role, Pieter says: “I still work with financial data, but I focus on a single issue at a time within an organization. I thoroughly explore a single subject until it’s resolved, the next challenge can be completely different. That variety makes my job incredibly dynamic.” Collaborating for success We asked Rick and Pieter to describe what a financing process looks like and how collaboration between departments plays a role. Rick explains: “As an Assistant Controller or Accountant, you regularly interact with clients and build a strong relationship with your clients. As a result, clients often share their business plans with us. When we recognize that financing is needed or see opportunities for sustainability improvements, we involve our colleagues from the appropriate advisory department. For example, a client recently approached me with an investment plan. I immediately brought Pieter in, who put together a financing proposal in no time. These short communication lines make a real difference.” Pieter adds: “Our role as financing advisor is somewhat more reactive in nature—we step in when a client has a specific need. While we interact with clients less frequently, the relationships we build are still deep and personal.” Corporate Finance advisors rely on data provided by the client’s Accountant or Controller. Pieter notes: “Many of our clients also have their financial administration handled by Van Oers, which means we have quick access to the information we need. This allows us to act fast and consult internally about possibilities without always having to involve the client in every step. The result? We can present a complete and well-thought-out advisory plan much faster, strengthening our clients’ trust.” The strength of working as one team When discussing what sets Van Oers apart, Rick and Pieter highlight: “At Van Oers, collaboration is key — departments are interconnected, creating a strong sense of unity and teamwork. Even if you don’t work in the same department, we still work together as one team. That’s because we all share the same goal: providing the best possible advice to our clients, as efficiently as possible.” “And that sense of teamwork and unity extends beyond work. From social drinks and sports events to amazing company parties. Everyone is part of the same team.” Discover your ideal path with the Finance Traineeship Finally, we asked Rick and Pieter what their advice would be to students. Pieter shared: “Gain as much experience as you can, and don’t just settle for the first opportunity that comes your way. Figuring out what excites you and where you excel can benefit you tremendously in the long run.” As a multidisciplinary advisory firm, Van Oers offers a Finance Traineeship that allows students to gain experience across multiple departments. This enables you to explore different areas, discover what excites you, and determine where your strengths lie — helping you make an informed decision about your future career. Are you curious to see if Van Oers is the right fit for you? Join us for a coffee or visit our website to explore our job openings and internship opportunities!

Behind the Finance expedition 2024

Accounting, Finance

In this week’s article, Yunjie Chen shares her experiences as a committee member of the Finance Expedition 2024 and what this expedition is all about. The idea behind this expedition is to introduce students to the world of finance in a unique and interactive way, while also providing companies with a platform to discover young talent. Finance Expedition in Brief The Finance Expedition is organized by Asset Financials and Asset Econometrics and is specifically designed for students interested in Corporate Finance, Asset Management, and Risk Management. This three-day expedition, including overnight stays, offers challenging business cases, personal stories from professionals, and valuable networking opportunities that can open new doors. Program Development In February 2024, we began preparations for the 2024 edition as a committee. After hours of brainstorming sessions, weekly meetings, and a team-building activity, we finalized the program. Everyone within the committee had their own tasks and carried them out diligently. After the summer, everything accelerated, and registrations started pouring in. Internally, we were busy processing both administrative and promotional tasks. We held college talks, promoted the event online, and personally approached students with details about the expedition. Besides promotion, we also had to arrange transportation and accommodations. Logistically, we chose the Van der Valk Hotel in Breukelen for overnight stays. The Big Days: Success and Satisfaction Day 1: Rotterdam – Nerisa On the first day, we left Tilburg early and headed to Rotterdam, where we were warmly welcomed by investment company Nerisa. We received an extensive presentation about the company and its focus areas. Following that, the students worked on a challenging equity research case, which they later presented to Nerisa professionals. The day ended with a lunch where students could ask questions and network. Day 2: Utrecht – BDO The second day featured an in-house day at BDO in Utrecht. In addition to audit services, BDO has an M&A department, which was the focus of the day. Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly and started the day with a presentation about the Corporate Finance and Transaction Services departments. After the presentation, we worked on a financial due diligence case, with the results being discussed in detail. The day concluded with a group lunch, where students once again had the opportunity to ask questions. Day 3: Amsterdam and Utrecht – Deloitte & Zanders The third and final day focused on Risk Management. In the morning, we traveled to Amsterdam’s Zuidas district to visit Deloitte. We received an extensive presentation, followed by a challenging case on The Ocean Cleanup. Each group presented their findings at the end. After a group lunch and a tour of the departments, we headed to Utrecht for an in-house day at Zanders. Zanders, a consultancy specializing in treasury and risk management, welcomed us with an introductory presentation. The group was then split into two: one group worked on a case, while the other participated in a Zanders escape room. After the swap, the day ended with a group dinner, where students had the opportunity to engage in in-depth conversations with Zanders professionals. This marked the end of the Finance Expedition 2024. Challenges Along the Way During the organization of the Finance Expedition 2024, planning proved to be a significant challenge. Scheduling meetings with seven committee members is not easy, as everyone has a busy agenda. One tip that helped me was to schedule the next meeting at the end of each session using a tool like When2meet or LettuceMeet. This saves a lot of communication afterward. Additionally, flexibility is crucial: physical meetings are important for comprehensive agenda points, but shorter meetings are often more efficient online. What I Learned Organizing the Finance Expedition taught me valuable skills, such as planning, teamwork, networking, and communication. Additionally, it gave me more insight into my own ambitions within the finance world. It was very fulfilling to organize an event that helps others advance in their careers. I look back on this experience with pride and am confident that the Finance Expedition 2024 left a lasting impression – both on the students and the participating companies. Why Joining a Committee Is Worth It If you get the chance to join a committee, seize it with both hands. It’s an experience that will help you grow both personally and professionally. Organizing this event gave me insights not only into the financial world but also into my own skills and ambitions. My Experience with Asset Financials I have been a member of Asset Financials since February 2023. In addition to organizing the finance expedition, I have also been part of the financial business dinner 2023 committee which was a valuable experience as well. I appreciate how Asset Financials bridges the gap between students and companies and fully commits to this goal. The study association offers both formal and informal activities where you get the chance to meet new people! I highly recommend getting to know the association by signing up for a few events. It’s a valuable experience you don’t want to miss!