Meet the EduFin Team
Our amazing team are at the heart of EduFin’s great reputation. Handpicked for their expertise and friendly approach, they know how to get the job done with a smile!
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Tracy Dawson - Director
As the EduFin veteran of the education sector, there isn't much Tracy hasn't comes across! She is passionate about offering the best finance solutions whilst adapting her approach to each unique Trust. You're likely to hear her before you see her but can always count on Tracy to deliver quality service with a sense of humour.When Tracy isn’t leading finance teams to success you can normally find her on a lengthy bike ride or complaining about her aches and pains in the aftermath!
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Carina Cuddington - Director
Carina began her career at an accountancy practice, qualifying as a Chartered Accountant. In 2009 she became a Finance Manager for a Multi Academy Trust. Since co-founding EduFin in 2013, Carina has supported many Trusts, from holding the CFO role, carrying out due diligence and internal scrutiny, to providing strategic support and guidance in all areas of Academy Finance.She has significant experience specialising in change management. Carina is bubbly and fun-loving both in and out of work.
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Ian Gough - Director
Having worked in charities and the education sector for all his (now quite extensive) working career, Ian has a great understanding of charity and education finance.Along with supporting Trusts in a strategic finance role, he runs our popular hosting service and is also the brains behind our Foresight budgeting software.
When Ian isn’t supporting clients or building nifty excel tools, he enjoys bike-riding, go karting and spending time with his family.
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David Powell - Director
David has been in the charity and education sector for most of his working life and has been a Chartered Management Accountant since 2006. His logical and rational approach to things makes him a pro at overseeing EduFin’s popular Helpdesk service. He loves problem solving and getting into the finer details to offer alternative ways to achieve efficiencies in finance.Outside of work David is a regular at The Reach climbing centre in Woolwich and loves an early morning walk.
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Abdul Juned - Associate Director
Abdul has worked in the education finance sector for the past decade. Now as an Associate Director at EduFin, he juggles both client work and team management with exceptional skill and dedication.Abdul covers multiple CFO positions for clients, highlighting his expertise and reliability in the field.
His enjoyment of helping clients on helpdesk demonstrates his customer-centric approach, while his playful side emerges through winding up colleagues on our Fantasy Football League.
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Siobhan Young - Operations Director
Siobhan is EduFin’s Operations Manager and is the superstar than ensures the smooth running of the company on a day to day basis! With previous experience working in the education sector, Siobhan is aware of the unique level of hard work that goes into working within a busy Trust.Her superpower is keeping the team organised, manging her ever-growing to-do list and juggling tasks whilst keeping cool under pressure, this makes her the best at what she does - as long as she is caffeinated!
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Rachael Finan - Associate Director
Rachael is now in her 9th year of supporting schools. She has held two long term CFO roles since joining EduFin, and has assisted with two MAT mergers, along with providing adhoc support and guidance to Trusts.Often known for her positive attitude and being the 'calming influence', Rachael loves a challenge and thrives on doing a great job for her clients.
Outside of work Rachael will most likely be on a City Break somewhere across Europe or in the Kent countryside with her Dachshund Ernie!
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Nick Lockyer-Fincken - Senior Consultant
Nick joined EduFin after working in various roles in school finance for 10 years during which time he was a School Business Manager as well as working for a large Local Authority.
Since joining EduFin he’s worked as interim Finance Director for an academy trust as well as a Finance Business Partner for a large trust and has worked on various finance systems.
When not working he enjoys time with his fiancée and their dog Dudley or the stresses of following his football team in South London (team name not disclosed).
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Lesley Anderson - Senior Consultant
Lesley began her career in an accountancy practice as a Chartered Accountant, before moving into more corporate roles. Following the birth of her children, Lesley decided to move to an industry where she felt she could make a difference and has since held a number of senior roles in the Education Sector and the Local Authority. Lesley thrives in challenging environments and enjoys implementing necessary change management.
Outside of work you’ll find Lesley looking after her small menagerie of animals; dogs, tortoises, chickens and fish!
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Dawn Brighton - Senior Consultant
Before joining Edufin, Dawn quickly worked her way up from finance assistant to finance controller, giving her experience at all levels and a full understanding of finance processes from start to finish.With over 13 years’ experience in all education settings, Dawn is able to implement processes to support the Academy / Trusts' needs. She is AAT qualified, working towards her CIMA qualification.
Dawn describes herself as a militant task master who loves a challenge and is super competitive!
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Angel Topping - Senior Consultant
Having now worked for EduFin for over two years, Angel has gained her AAT qualification and is now working towards a CIPFA qualification to further expand her knowledge.
Angel will always turn up with a positive attitude and will work hard to come up with helpful solutions to any problems. In her spare time Angel loves to put her brain to work in a good escape room with her friends or she can often be found playing ball with her labrador, Belle, on the beach.
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Emma Djemal - Consultant
Having been at EduFin for over 5 years Emma has gained MAAT status and is now studying the CIPFA/ISBL diploma in school business leadership. During this time Emma has personally supported more than 25 trusts; some for multiple years.Passionate about PS Financials and implementing improvements where necessary, Emma always has a handy tip or trick to streamline the duties of your department. When she isn't at work you can find Emma mastering a new hobby such as paddleboarding or ice skating!
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Jamie Ward - Consultant
Since joining EduFin in 2021, Jamie has developed strong education finance skills, as well as great relationships with everyone he meets. Following finishing his AAT Level 3, he has made great progress on his Level 4 and is well on his way to becoming AAT qualified.
Jamie is calm, yet passionate about his work. He is always willing to help both his clients and colleagues with any issues they may face. Outside of work, you’ll probably find Jamie trying a new restaurant or out on the golf course!
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Sam Reilly - Consultant
Sam joined EduFin as an Apprentice and is working hard towards becoming AAT qualified. He is actively developing his skills, specifically on PS Financials and Access, to be able to support clients and colleagues with any issues thrown his way. Sam is out-going and willing to take on any challenge. He loves to learn something new at any opportunity given.Outside of work you’ll usually find Sam out on the golf course practicing to perfect his swing or out and about with friends.
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Isa Brika - Consultant
Isa, recently promoted to Associate Consultant at Edufin, is a very dedicated and skilled professional. With his AAT Level 4 qualification nearly complete, he ensures that his work will meet the highest standards and satisfy clients' expectations.With almost 2 years of experience at Edufin, lsa's thoroughness and commitment are evident in all the work he takes part in. Outside of work, he will enjoy his weekends watching Formula 1 and occasionally playing basketball with his friends.
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Nathan Watts - Associate Consultant
Nathan is a hardworking and aspirational character who has recently been promoted to a Junior Consultant at EduFin. Nathan is currently halfway through the AAT level three qualification where he has proven his hard work and dedication.Nathan has an advanced knowledge on PS Financials and has received exceptional feedback from colleagues and clients. Outside of work you can find Nathan on a golf course perfecting his swing or enjoying watching his favourite team, Chelsea.
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Ludmila Kolesnikova - Associate Consultant
Ludmila joined EduFin in 2021 after having worked in an accountancy practice. Soon to be AAT qualified, Ludmila has helped many clients with the day to day running of their Finance Office. She is happy to apply her problem-solving skills to any situation that might arise to find the best solution for the client, all in a friendly manner!
In her spare time, you will either find Ludmila curling up with a good book, going for lengthy swims in a pool or planning a new adventure trip!!
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Tyler Gower - Associate Consultant
With almost 2 years in the Education sector, Tyler's commitment to his role is appreciated by all that meet him. As a Junior Consultant and EduFin's first ever Apprentice Ambassader, Tyler provides an exemplary work ethic and a positive attitude to his client work, his studies and in supporting his team members; even with a dash of dry humour.He is always on time and supports with a smile! Outside of work, Tyler is either gaming on his PC or spending time with his dog Vinnie
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Katie Howe - Associate Consultant
Katie has been with EduFin for over a year and a half and is continuing her studies in AAT level 3, hopefully soon to start her Level 4. She has worked with multiple clients whilst at her time with EduFin and enjoys meeting new people and facing different opportunities using multiple accounting softwares including PS Financials and Sage.Outside of EduFin, you can find her enjoying time with friends and family or in the cinema watching the latest films.
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Charis Hinson - Junior Consultant
Now fully embedded into studying AAT Level 3, Charis is beginning to master the ins and outs of accounting in schools; especially enjoying reconciling statements and streamlining clients' filing systems.Pairing this together with her prior knowledge of computer science and can do attitude, she is fully prepared to tackle any problem thrown at her and is eager to expand her knowledge. Outside of work, you'll never find Charis far from her cat, Goose, or her videogames.
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Angelina Mammadov - Junior Consultant
Angelina Mammadov is a dedicated, ambitious Apprentice, with a fantastic positive attitude, eager to kickstart her career in the world of finance. Currently pursuing her ACCA qualification, she approaches each task with enthusiasm and willingness to learn, Angelina is eager to contribute to the success of the finance teams she works with.
Outside of the workplace she likes to spends time with her family outdoors and in her free time, paints landscapes on canvas.
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Ryan Nellist - Junior Consultant
Ryan joined Edufin in early 2024 as an Apprentice Consultant and is working towards becoming AAT qualified. Ever since Ryan was in secondary school, his interest in maths has sparked a desire to work within accountancy, and here he is!Ryan is always looking for chances to develop and grow in order to satisfy clients and expand his knowledge base.
Outside of work you will find Ryan studying towards his qualification, exercising with friends in the gym or out socialising. -
Kylan Green - Junior Consultant
Kylan is passionate about contributing to the financial success of our clients and building strong, professional relationships . With a commitment to excellence, Kylan works closely with clients to ensure they receive the best financial guidance and support. Currently studying AAT Level 4, Kylan is always eager to expand his knowledge.Kylan thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys taking on new challenges. Out of the office, you’ll often find him socialising or engaging in anything sports related.
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George Russell - Apprentice Consultant
George joined EduFin in mid-2024 and has been working as an Apprentice Consultant while pursuing his Level 2 AAT qualification.George is dedicated to developing his accounting expertise and coming from a family of accountants, his passion for the profession runs deep.
When he's not at work, you’ll likely find George on the golf course (where he admits he could use all the practice he can get) or relaxing with his partner while enjoying a good movie!
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Anojaan Kallaivannan - Apprentice Consultant
Anojaan joined as an Apprentice Consultant in 2024, and is currently working hard towards becoming AAT qualified. Having previously worked in a different industry, Anojaan wanted a career change, and his interest in numbers and accounting drove him to start a career in finance. He is always looking to bring added value to clients, and has shown a great can do attitude and a desire to learn.Outside of work, you can find Anojaan out and about or enjoying a relaxing Sunday watching the F1.
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Grace Dunn - Junior Consultant
Grace joined EduFin halfway through 2024 as an Apprentice Consultant and has quickly become an integral part of the team, working closely with multiple clients. She is currently studying towards her Level 2 AAT qualification and is looking forward to completing it. Known for her positive attitude and determination, Grace approaches all work matters with positivity and never backs down from a challenge.Outside of work, Grace enjoys planning her next holiday and spending quality time with friends.
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Gurpreet Kang - Apprentice
Gurpreet joined EduFin in 2024 as an Apprentice Consultant and is currently working hard towards becoming AAT qualified. With a strong work ethic and a keen interest in finance, Gurpreet is dedicated to developing his expertise and providing valuable support to clients.Always eager to learn and take on new challenges, Gurpreet approaches tasks with determination and a proactive mindset. Outside of work, Gurpreet enjoys staying active in the gym or socialising with friends.
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Liam Rushmer - Technical Consultant
As Technical Consultant, Liam's focus is on financial software, systems and hosted solutions. With a proactive approach and meticulous attention to detail, he ensures seamless operations and tailored solutions for both EduFin and our clients' diverse technical needs; whether a Connect hosting migration, location build, or budget holder roll-out.
Outside of work Liam will have his head still stuck in the world of computing, or be on a road trip around the country to various places of interest!
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Hayley Thompson - HR Officer
As our HR Officer, Hayley looks after everything People and Training related. With a background in delivering training and managing apprenticeships, she brings an organised and nurturing approach to supporting the team with their journeys and keeping all of the HR functions in order at the same time.
Outside of work, you’ll find her navigating the fun of bringing up teenagers while chasing her toddler through the soft-play. When she gets time to herself she enjoys watching a good series or movie, and going out to eat in new places. -
Anika Broadway - Operations Assistant
Anika supports our Operations Manager, ensuring each day runs smoothly. She comes from a personal assistant background providing great organisation, adaptability, and support. Her role ensures that the directors, management team and staff are kept up to date and that our ‘house’ is always in order.
Although a lot of her role happens behind the scenes, it always has a positive impact. Outside of work, Anika is kept very busy by her four-year-old twins. A queen of juggling some might say!