The British Triathlon Federation (BTF) is celebrating 25 years of triathlon racing in Great Britain this year. From originally being outcast by the three individual disciplines – swimming, cycling and running – and being labelled as a ‘gruelling’ sport (thanks to the media!), triathlon racing has overcome this and now boasts a national club network encouraging mass participation, elite teams, youth programmes and a successful age group programme. And, of course, not forgetting full recognition by the International Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Federation!
It is now described as a ‘lifestyle’ sport and becomes a way of life for many participants that they can continue to compete in on the European and World stages right up into their 80’s!
But, as with many sports, this costs money and requires extensive planning and organisation – which is where the BTF comes in. Based on Loughborough University campus, the team of 68 have responsibility for managing performance, development and keeping the whole thing running (and cycling and swimming).
And it is this latter operational area that 4 years ago required the interim business services provided by Ensors.
The sudden departure of the Finance Director left the BTF with a big gap to fill – very quickly! Thankfully Maria Brown, an experienced accountant working in another part of the organisation, agreed to take over the helm but needed some help to get the department running smoothly again following the disruption of the FD’s departure. She contacted Ensors and within 5 days Jonathan Ainsley, Business Support Services Assistant Manager, was working on site. His role was to review all financial routines and procedures – including the accounting software - to ensure that month end processes could run smoothly and efficiently. Jonathan worked on site for just 2 days a month and within 18 months handed the systems back to business-as-usual.
Now 2 ½ years later, the BTF are operating a very lean and efficient accounting team – headed up by Maria. They have retained the services of Ensors who run the payroll function and operate the maintenance contract for their Access Accounting software – providing updates, training and help-desk support. But still no sign of Jonathan donning his Lycra to compete in his first triathlon!
For more information about Ensors interim assignment service speak to Nicola Hall or Roger Wilson
