Broadcast: News items

Natalie Davies, Corporate Accounting Business Partner in the Finance Division spoke to us about how collaboration is key to success - and what it’s like to work with colleagues across the University to improve and streamline what we do.

I contribute to the university’s accountability, compliance, and financial transparency at a strategic level. I’m excited to have recently stepped into a new role as a Corporate Accounting Business Partner within the Corporate Accounting team. We focus on statutory accounts, audit coordination, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the final financial figures submitted on behalf of the University.

One of my favourite aspects of my job is the collaborative spirit across the University. There’s a shared commitment to making things better, not just maintaining the status quo. In my previous role, in Management Accounting Services, I supported Facilities and Finance Business Partners. The experience and relationships I built there continue to shape how I approach my work today. Together, we maintained budgets, payroll, and expenditure tracking for various facilities, making significant strides in streamlining processes. For example, we collaborated with colleagues in the School of Education and Social Work to improve processes around placement administration and bursary payments. The initiative has been so successful that it’s now being rolled out to other areas. In the School of Media, Arts and Humanities, we worked on policy clarity and compliance with support from staff within the School. We also collaborated with colleagues in MAH and the Business School to enable a deeper understanding of processes. Each of these improvements have reduced administrative burdens, increased transparency, and helped ensure compliance.

The progress we’ve made wouldn’t be possible without incredible support from every corner of the Finance Division and Facilities. Every team has played a role. What’s truly inspiring is the shared mindset: a willingness to challenge the old ways of doing things and embrace change. It’s this collective effort that makes transformation possible. I’m deeply grateful to all my colleagues, all of whom I’ve thanked in person, for their openness, creativity, and dedication.

I’ve never felt more at home than I do at Sussex. The staff and students I’ve met are not only incredibly kind but also full of fascinating stories and perspectives. My favourite place on campus is the lily ponds. I love flowers and being outdoors, so it’s a peaceful spot where I can recharge.

As a child, I had two dreams: to be an accountant and a farmer or ranger. I’m always up for an adventure. Whether it’s exploring new places, creating something new, or just getting out into nature, I love staying active and curious. Time just flies when I’m out discovering something new.

Something that might surprise people is that, in addition to my role in Corporate Accounting, I’m also part of the Medical Response Team - the University’s first aiders. I really enjoy being able to support staff and students in this way. It’s a role that reflects my passion for helping others and being part of a caring community.

Interested in process improvement? Find out more about a new service efficiency and effectiveness initiative underway in Professional Services.