Challenge
CMAK Films Limited were starting a new project co-producing a drama with a South African film maker. Whilst Simon Howley, the director, had been happy with his previous accountant’s service he didn’t feel that they could give the level of support he needed for this new endeavour.
He wanted regular reports to funders, Cost Reports produced in a timely manner and explained to him clearly so there wouldn’t be any misunderstandings between CMAK and the other film producer. As well as ensuring that the statutory duties were submitted accurately, and on time. He had enough on his plate in running the production, without worrying about compliance tasks being done.
Our Approach
Simon reached out to Sam as they had worked together before when Sam was an in-house accountant in a TV production company they both worked in. The service Simon wanted was essentially a Financial Controller but without hiring a full-time member of staff.
Sam was able to provide confidence that he understood the demands, having carried out similar tasks previously. Further, he could be on hand to respond swiftly when necessary.
The Result
A strong working relationship developed whilst working together over two years from start to project completion. Not only were compliance tasks completed well ahead of time but we were also able to react to opportunities as they arose. A grant from Northern Ireland Screen was successfully attained; this involved sending Budgets, Costs Reports and Finance Plans that met the criteria. Sam also with HMRC to ensure that Withholding Tax was successfully reclaimed from the German Tax authority.