Making your mark at Gerald Edelman

It can be daunting to enter a new role and look at driving change, innovation, and new processes. But for Financial Controller, Dan Spackman, Gerald Edelman provides the team with the confidence and freedom to push initiatives and really make their mark. 

In this team story, we learn more about Dan and his time at GE, including what he believes sets the firm apart.

Tell us about yourself

I joined Gerald Edelman as Financial Controller back in November 2020 and I’m officially their tallest employee!

What did you do before you worked at Gerald Edelman?

Prior to joining Gerald Edelman, I spent the previous 14 years at a top 30 accountancy practice. Starting out as a relatively junior finance assistant, before working my way up to Financial Controller in 2016.

What do you do now?

At Gerald Edelman I’m responsible for managing the firm’s finances, introducing and developing internal processes and producing the financial information and analysis needed to drive the business forward. Working with my fantastic team, we strive to provide an excellent service at all times and proactively service the needs of our colleagues and clients.

One of the great things about my role is the varied nature of the work I do. There’ll always be the monthly recurring work that I’m responsible for, such as the monthly management accounts, but throughout the month there will be other short, mid and long-term projects that the team and I are working on.

Where do you want to go with your career?

I’ve learnt a lot in the 18 months I’ve been at Gerald Edelman, working with and learning from the knowledgeable and approachable partners we have here, it’s been a fantastic experience and learning curve for me. There are still areas within finance that I want to develop and take to the next level, I’ve recently rolled out a new financial reporting tool that has been well received and is providing key financial information in real time and in a simple and user friendly way.

Technology in finance is changing all the time so it’s vital that we’re moving with it. Aside from finance, there are other areas of the business I want to delve into, to see how things operate and potentially introduce improved processes and automation. A big driver for me is always finding more innovative and efficient ways for our team to work.

What is your favourite thing about the firm?

The people. Everyone works together to achieve our goals and the size of the firm allows us all to feel like we’re making a difference. It’s great when you can see your hard work pay off!

What did you want to be when you were younger?

Footballer, then when I realised that wasn’t going to happen it changed to sports photographer but I’m not very creative, so I decided finance was best for me!

Are you an early bird or a night owl?

A night owl, but that is changing now that I have a young daughter.

What would your advice be to anyone trying to get into your profession?

Work hard, believe in your abilities and don’t just focus on your technical ability. Soft skills such as communication, leadership and having a strong commercial acumen are just as important.