Cambridge
Academy
In London

Introduction:

In today's competitive business environment, financial literacy is essential for all executives, regardless of their department or function. "Finance for Non-Finance Executives" is designed to equip leaders and managers without a formal finance background with the knowledge and confidence to understand financial reports, participate in financial discussions, make informed decisions, and drive organizational success through financial insight. This course bridges the gap between financial theory and practical application, enabling participants to interpret financial data and integrate it effectively into strategic planning and day-to-day management.

Target Audience:

• Executives and senior managers from non-financial backgrounds
• Department heads and team leaders
• Entrepreneurs and business owners
• Professionals in marketing, HR, operations, and legal departments
• Project managers and consultants
• Anyone seeking to enhance their financial understanding for better business decision-making

Course Objectives:

• Understand the fundamentals of financial statements and key financial concepts.
• Analyze financial information to support strategic and operational decisions.
• Develop the ability to engage confidently in financial discussions.
• Identify and interpret key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial ratios.
• Manage budgets, forecasts, and investment appraisals effectively.
• Enhance decision-making through better financial comprehension.

Course Content:

Unit 1: Fundamentals of Financial Management

• Importance of financial literacy for non-financial executives
• Overview of financial accounting vs managerial accounting
• Key financial principles and concepts
• The role of finance in business strategy
• Introduction to financial governance and compliance
• Common financial terminology explained

Unit 2: Understanding Financial Statements

• Components of financial statements: balance sheet, income statement, cash flow statement
• Reading and interpreting financial reports
• Understanding assets, liabilities, and equity
• Recognizing revenue, expenses, and profit margins
• Analyzing cash flow and liquidity
• Common pitfalls and misconceptions in financial reporting

Unit 3: Financial Analysis and Decision-Making

• Introduction to financial ratios and indicators
• Profitability, liquidity, and solvency analysis
• Break-even analysis and contribution margins
• Forecasting and budgeting essentials
• Investment appraisal techniques (NPV, IRR, Payback Period)
• Cost control and financial efficiency

Unit 4: Budgeting, Forecasting, and Financial Planning

• Purpose and process of budgeting
• Different types of budgets (operational, capital, flexible)
• Best practices for accurate forecasting
• Variance analysis and performance monitoring
• Linking budgets to organizational strategy
• Risk management and contingency planning

Unit 5: Practical Applications and Strategic Financial Insight

• Integrating financial insights into business strategies
• Financial considerations in pricing and product decisions
• Case studies of successful financial decision-making
• Understanding funding options and capital structure
• Communication of financial information to stakeholders
• Ethical considerations and financial accountability