Last week, our esteemed CEO Jamie Radford had the pleasure of attending the prestigious CICM Credit Awards as guests of O2C Labs. It was an unforgettable evening, filled with camaraderie and recognition for the outstanding achievements of teams and individuals within the credit industry.
Our highlights from the evening
Sue Chapple, the esteemed CEO of CICM, delivered a captivating opening address, delving into the rich history of the Institute dating back to its inception in 1939. Her insights provided a profound perspective on the evolution and significance of credit management over the decades.
One of the most striking aspects of the evening was the diverse array of winners hailing from various industries and backgrounds. This diversity mirrors the multifaceted nature of the payable profession, where individuals from all walks of life come together to contribute their unique skills and perspectives.
What truly resonated throughout the event was the undeniable overlap and shared challenges between the accounts payable and credit sectors. Despite the differences in focus, both industries grapple with similar obstacles, with one common denominator standing out above all else – the “People.”
At both the Credit Awards and the APA Awards, individuals remained at the heart of achieving high performance and driving business results. It’s a testament to the unwavering dedication and commitment of professionals across these sectors who understand that success is not merely about numbers, but about the people behind them.
Empowering the Industry with pivotal Partnerships
So let’s spotlight the pivotal relationship between Accounts Payable and Credit teams and why their synergy is a game-changer.
⚡ Efficiency Amplified: By harmonising AP and Credit operations, organisations unleash a powerhouse of efficiency. Streamlined processes ensure invoices are promptly processed and payments are made on time, optimising cash flow management.
💡 Insightful Decision-Making: The fusion of AP and Credit data offers a panoramic view of financial health. From identifying trends to mitigating risks, this comprehensive insight empowers informed decision-making at every turn.
🤝 Seamless Communication: Effective collaboration bridges the gap between departments, fostering seamless communication. Whether it’s resolving discrepancies or addressing vendor concerns, a united front ensures swift resolutions and strengthens vendor relationships.
🌐 Global Impact: In today’s interconnected world, the impact of collaboration transcends borders. By aligning AP and Credit strategies across regions, organisations not only ensure compliance but also enhance their global footprint.
💥 Driving Innovation: Collaboration breeds innovation. When AP and Credit teams join forces, they become catalysts for transformative change. From adopting cutting-edge technologies to pioneering best practices, this synergy propels organisations towards the forefront of industry innovation.
🚀 Future-Proofing Success: In a landscape characterised by constant evolution, collaboration is the cornerstone of future-proofing success. By fostering a culture of collaboration, organisations adapt, thrive, and remain agile in the face of ever-changing financial landscapes.
👥 As we champion collaboration, let’s recognise the invaluable role of every individual within the AP and Credit ecosystem. Together, we’re not just shaping the future of finance we’re redefining it.
As we reflect on the inspiring evening at the CICM Credit Awards, let’s carry forward this spirit of collaboration and appreciation for the invaluable contributions of individuals within our respective industries. Together, we can continue to elevate the standards of excellence and drive positive change within the realms of credit management and accounts payable.
Thank you Credit Community 🙏
Special thanks to Chris Sanders FCICM , Laurie Beagle FCICM & Kerry McKevitt MBA from The Order to Cash Laboratory Ltd for the invite & hospitality.
Over 50% of SMEs within the UK are affected by late payments, costing small firms an estimated £22,000 a year. In an announcement made on Thursday 19th September, the Government have declared an enhanced package of measures, as well as the hotly anticipated, new ‘Fair Payment Code’, in a bid to fight the problem. Currently, […]
Read more
The excitement was palpable on Thursday 12th September as over 130 attendees joined the Accounts Payable Association, live on LinkedIn, for the announcement of this year’s APA Awards shortlist. The Awards, which celebrates hard-work, perseverance and excellence of professionals within Accounts Payable, is recognised as the benchmark of outstanding achievement. This year, records were broken […]
As part of the Accounts Payable Association’s ongoing work to support the Accounts Payable Industry, we are pleased to announce our latest initiative, the APA Rising Star Scholarship. The APA strive to provide opportunities for Accounts Payable Professionals to not only build their network within our inclusive community, but to also develop their skills […]
Read more