Finance recognised for excellence in innovation
Last week the Finance Portfolio won the 2014 Excellence in Improvement and Innovation Award at the 17th Annual Shared Services and Outsourcing Network (SSON) Excellence Awards. SSON is the largest and most established community of shared services and outsourcing professionals in the world. The awards attracted nominations from across Australasia, including nominations from Telstra and QBE.
“This is a significant achievement for Monash and the Finance Portfolio. It demonstrates our commitment to continued improvement and best practice in finance services; and is a wonderful tribute to all the team’s hard work over the years,” said David Pitt, Senior Vice-President and CFO.
The Finance Portfolio was awarded for the implementation of the Financial Services Enhancement (FSE) project. The project began in 2009, with a service framework implemented from 2010 to 2012, and system and process improvements continuing into 2014. FSE has reduced the cost of financial services to the University by 24 per cent; enabled a move to a local service team model; improved customer satisfaction; and increased our finance specialisation, control and management.
These improvements have ensured that every area of the University now receives the same level of financial expertise and support. Academic staff are provided with a consistent level of service whatever the financial need, from a simple purchase through to comprehensive financial advice.
"This award is recognition of all the hard work undertaken by each and every finance staff member over the last four years. From the FSE project and the finance leadership teams, all the way through to staff in AP and AR, purchasing, revenue accounting and financial accounting and financial planning every one of us has played a role in delivering world class innovation to this world class organisation," said Director Finance Strategy and award recipient, Nicole Tournier.