In this episode of Financial Modeler's Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Dave Hallwood, a finance director and certified financial modeler, for a practical and candid conversation about real-world modeling in the retail industry. From managing day-to-day operations in a fast-growing fashion retail group to navigating insolvency and restructuring, Dave shares the hard-earned lessons that have shaped his approach to modeling, decision-making, and leadership. Dave Hallwood is the Finance Director of a group of independent fashion retailers in the UK. After spending years in retail and hospitality management, Dave transitioned into finance in his 30s, becoming a fellow of ACCA and earning his Certified Financial Modeler (CFM) designation from the Financial Modeling Institute. With a passion for practical financial modeling, Dave has built and managed models for nearly every scenario a small retailer can face, from budgeting and forecasting to store openings, closings, and insolvency planning. Expect to Learn: How to model retail cash flow when weather drives sales The importance of simplicity and storytelling in financial models What it’s like to manage an insolvency and restructure a business Why Dave believes gut instinct still plays a big role in decision-making How Dave uses modeling to support store openings, closures, and growth Practical advice for switching into a finance career later in life Here are a few quotes from the episode: "Financial models help guide the business, but people and relationships still make it work." "The best decision is often a balance between what the model says and what feels right." "No matter how great the numbers look, if your gut says no, listen." Dave Hallwood shares what it’s really like to model for a retail business. From managing cash flow swings to making tough calls during insolvency, he brings a grounded, real-world perspective. Dave reminds us that models should support decisions, not replace them. It’s a must-listen for anyone juggling numbers and navigating uncertainty. Follow Dave: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hallwood-fcca-cfm-87270449/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 Follow Financial Modeler's Corner LinkedIn Page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984 Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’. Visit
