Getting insights into margin and control cash.
Running a growing business comes with the need for a deeper understanding of margins and cash flow, with only an external bookkeeper internal processes are getting the attention they need. – a typical Marble case.
So, why did Bibi reach out to Marble?
“We were missing a finance manager on our team. In addition to the need for day-to-day operational support, I wanted to elevate all financial processes to a higher level. There was also a desire for more insight into the numbers.”
Thomas de Haas | CFO Bibi van der Velden
How Marble build a launchpad for future growth
As in many scale-ups there is a primary focus on the front-end at Bibi – sales are top priority.
Front-end decisions are leading to manual work and inefficiencies in the finance back-end.
The CFO still heavily involved in the finance operations.
This is managable if you are starting-up, however killing if you want to scale.
The Marble projects; automating the basics, getting insights into actuals and cash to be able to navigate and building the team of the future.
First let's
Automate key processes
Improved accounting structure. Correct accounting and standardization of costs and revenue recording
Revealed the actuals. We made actual margins on product level transparent.
Killed manual tasks. Automated purchase & sales invoicing, payments, credit card transactions
An accurate forecast & monitoring
Adding internal controls and timely reporting
Implemented internal controls, like 4-eyes for invoices, payments, and inventory count
Set up quick month-end closing and review of figures
Provided timely actual vs. budget reports
Created insight into cash with cashflow forecast
We leveraged working capital. Improved debtor collection and recording, smart buying planning and identified smart cash-savings.
Changing is a waste of time
We assisted in building and coaching the team
Established guidelines. Clear agreements with other teams
We trained a finance intern and the new finance manager
Provided ongoing coaching for the finance manager
Put us on speed dial. We offered ad hoc support for the CFO and CEO. (and still do!)
About Bibi van der Velden
Bibi van der Velden is a jewelry designer who launched her brand in 2006. Her jewelry, crafted from premium materials like 18-carat gold, diamonds, and pearls, is sold in collections (fine jewelry) and bespoke items, where Bibi designs a unique piece for her clients. Bibi’s creations are available in her studio in Amsterdam, through retailers, and at events worldwide.
The biggest wins..
From the moment various processes started running more smoothly, tactical and strategic steering became possible. Moreover, costly errors were minimized. There was a deeper understanding of how to optimize working capital, budgets overruns are avoided.
Transparant margins on detailed product level made a huge impact on multiple levels like improved EBITDA and a more effective sales team.
They gained more control over the expenses incurred, which decreased tight cashflows and improved profits.
Eliminating manual steps in all processes has reduced the time needed for fundamental processes. This time can now be utilized for more optimizations to facilitate growth without things breaking or escalating.
The Marble team at Bibi
The Marble team on this assignment comprised a consultant, Simone, and director, Myrna, both with extensive experience at scale-ups. Simone immediately took charge of several daily operational processes. Then we identified improvement opportunities and implemented quick wins promptly.
Blending into the team and actively participating in day-to-day operations is customary for us. This approach provides the best insight into the changes needed for the most efficiently organized administration.
We’ll also help you with
Finance Quick Scan
You like to know where you are at and need a concrete plan.
Audit support
The auditor on your side of the table.
F.A.A.S
You need help, but not full time. Just put us on speed dial!