Ben Ducker FCA
Principal Consultant
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Location:
London / Basingstoke
A Bit About Me
I'm motivated by solving problems and helping people achieve their goals - and that's what drives my passion for financial modelling. I love using my expertise to help businesses make better decisions through precise and insightful models, and I find great satisfaction in delivering clarity to my clients.
It all started with my degree in Mathematics, then qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, and gaining broad experience in corporate finance and FP&A. That background laid the foundation for my specialised work in financial modelling, and for the past 9 years, I've focused on building financial models in Excel for mid-market businesses, typically with turnovers of £10 million to £100 million. I've written several publications on financial modelling and am also a member of the ICAEW Excel Community Advisory Group, where I contribute to thought leadership and education around Excel best practices.
I was previously a Director at a top 7 UK accounting firm, but after years of working in practice, I decided to set up my own boutique financial modelling firm. Now, I get to offer that same level of expertise directly to my clients - providing top-tier financial models with a personal touch. Based in Basingstoke, Hampshire, I work with clients in London and across the UK.
Outside of work, I'm into all kinds of sports, from cycling to weightlifting, and I've been making the most of working from home by using my old commuting time to focus on fitness and wellbeing.
What Have I Done?
With over 18 years of accounting experience, my financial modelling skills have been developed as a culmination of experiences throughout my career.
BSc Hons Mathematics
University of Bath
2001 - 2005
My mathematics degree helped me accelerate into my accounting career.
Analytical skills and logical thinking developed during the degree support my approach to designing and building financial models.
During my degree I did a 1-year work placement with Lloyds TSB in its credit model development team in Brighton - working on credit scorecards for overdraft applications.
Corporate Finance Associate
RSM, Southampton
2005 - 2010
Following an initial year in audit and accounts, my first role after graduation was as a corporate finance generalist - which provided a broad understanding of corporate finance.
I gained a wide range of experiences across M&A, Financial Due Diligence, Valuations and in this role I began building financial models.
I completed my ACA training and became a fully qualified accountant in 2008.
Financial Planning & Analysis Manager
RSM, Preston
2010 - 2015
An internally facing role responsible for the design and implementation of a variety of business critical processes delivered for internal stakeholders.
Overhauled the firm's budgeting templates and data aggregation process - reduced consolidation time from one week to 2hrs - enabling more revisions and significant additional insights for the national leadership team.
I took my Excel skills to the next level and became the national 'go to' person.
Financial Modelling Director
RSM, London
2015 - 2024
A welcome return to a client facing role in which I enjoyed solving problems and helping people.
The logical mindset, numerate ability, corporate finance experience, understanding of what business leaders need, plus my Excel and data skills came together perfectly as I found my niche in this technical role.
My entire career has led to this point. Financial modelling is something I genuinely enjoy and for which I have developed extensive skills and experience.
What Do I Do Now?
Today I run my company, Modelling Expert Ltd, which provides boutique financial modelling services for clients across the UK.
Outside Work
When I'm not at work I stay fit through a few different sports. They are a great way to keep active and also give me a perfect excuse to travel and explore new places!
Cycling
A keen cyclist, but probably don't get out as often as I would like to. It's a great way to clear the mind, as well as to get some fresh air and exercise at the same time!
I've had the pleasure of supporting the British Heart Foundation via their annual London to Brighton bike ride for a number of years.
Motorsports
I love to watch, but I'd rather be out on track! I've had some great track day experiences at circuits across the UK where you get to take your own road car out for a few (non-competitive) laps.
I managed to fulfil a lifelong dream in Spring 2024 with a trip to drive on the famous Nürburgring in Germany!
Weightlifting
I took up weightlifting semi-seriously when covid hit and working from home took over - I dedicated my commuting time to hitting the gym instead.
When it's too wet to go cycling, there's always the gym - dry and air conditioned, it's another way for me to work off some stress and stay healthy!
Target Shooting
A competitive target shooter since 2014, I've competed across the UK, EU, USA and Thailand. It's a really great way to meet people and see parts of the world that you would not otherwise.
I have had the honour of representing Great Britain in shotgun and rifle disciples at the IPSC World Championships.