IN CONVERSATION WITH:
FINANCIAL CONTROLLER, MARINA HENDERSON_
IN CONVERSATION WITH March 2021
We caught up with Accouter Group of Companies Financial Controller, Marina Henderson. Marina discusses her busy role at our London based interior design studio, her favourite A.LONDON project and where she is travelling to first once COVID restrictions have lifted.
Tell us about your journey into the industry?
For as long as I can remember I’ve battled the theory that people can fundamentally be categorised as either left brained or right brained. Whilst methodical and analytical problem-solving skills are key to building a successful career in finance, I’m a strong believer that everyone should allow their creative side to flourish no matter what job they’re in.
Over the past six years I’ve worked for multiple out-sourced accounting firms that often felt somewhat void of creativity. Since embarking on an accounting career, it has always been my end-goal to join a business where I felt the creative environment stimulates the best work from everyone involved, even those in the Finance team. Luckily for me, this opportunity arose last year when Accouter Group of Companies were looking for a Financial Controller to join their team.
“We’ve recently created a team of people to focus on turbocharging sustainable initiatives within the business.”
– Marina Henderson
Financial Controller
Can you tell us more about A.LONDON’s journey to becoming a more sustainable company?
Everyone at A.LONDON cares deeply about our environmental impact; we’ve recently created a team of people to focus on turbocharging sustainable initiatives within the business!
Our latest lookbooks designed as staple coffee table books, all printed on FSC certified paper and packaged using ribbons made of recycled bottles. It’s like opening a present! Alongside this we’re looking at how best to evolve our delivery fleet to be majority electric, as well as increasing the amount of recycled packaging on our furnishing products too. Whenever we can we buy locally and if products can’t be sourced in the UK, we look to our European neighbours to minimise air miles.
What is it like being a Financial Controller within the Interior Design industry?
In a word, exciting! Every day produces a different challenge to solve. It’s great to be involved in the entire project lifecycle from initial budgets right through to final product delivery. I have even had the chance to help the designers with installs. It’s gratifying to work with all of our suppliers, client teams, and designers to help get luxury interior designs delivered to our clients. The only issue I’m having is fighting the temptation to constantly upgrade my own interiors.
What is your favourite A.LONDON project and why?
Every project is so unique it’s impossible to choose just one. Recently, I’d have to say that I’ve loved our work on The W1 Townhouse with international property developers The W-One. The use of luxury modern design and the muted, ocean-like colour palette throughout is spectacular.
Are there any designer tips you have picked up on since working for A.LONDON?
Every day I learn something new and that’s why A.LONDON is such an inspiring place to work. The biggest tip I’ve picked up on is not to be afraid of mixing the old with the new. The ability to combine the use of antique pieces with new bespoke designs can create amazing and unique results, just like our award-winning project Lyons Place.
Are there any designer tips you have picked up on since working for A.LONDON?
Probably to the hairdresser! Hopefully later this year I’ll be able to reschedule a trip to Sri Lanka for some time in the sun!
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