Taking inventory… This week I found myself pause to take stock of my journey within investor relations and financial reporting. Just before Easter I got the printed version of Nilfisk’s 2023 Annual Report. My third report for Nilfisk, which comes in addition to four annual reports for Matas and five for Danske Bank. 12 annual reports in total. 2 awards: Nilfisk 2022 and Danske Bank 2013. In between the annual reports, I have worked on 27 quarterly reports. This means that Nilfisk Q1 2024 report due on 16 May 2024 will be the 40th financial report that I have worked on.
Those of you acquainted with financial reporting all know what goes on behind the scenes. What are best in class companies doing? How to incorporate CSR, ESG, ESRS and CSRD most successfully? What is the right theme for this year’s corporate photos? Which parts of the strategy deserves most attention and a case study?
From project management on a big scale into actual production of each page of the report. Numbers being compiled, books closing, strategy progress being documented, photo selection and graphics, internal reviews, tax, auditors, management reviews, revision rounds, audit committee reviews, BoD deadlines, guidance review linked to the budget process, continuous read across to the company announcement, investor presentation, speeches etc. The list goes on.
One thing that is certain is that every financial report is truly a team effort that only works, when everyone knows their role and goes that extra bit to collaborate across functions, time zones and responsibilities. I have been fortunate to always work with great teams, but the one at Nilfisk really stands out for its ability to just get things done, while always consuming plenty of cake and celebrating with champagne upon delivery of the newest report!
Managing Partner and President at Resource Management Group
1moCongratulations Patrick continued success !!