Chris Thorold

Finance Director

Professional Overview
Chris Thorold is an accomplished finance executive with over 15 years of experience in driving financial strategy and operational excellence across diverse industries. As the Finance Director at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, he oversees the financial operations and long-term financial planning for the prestigious academic publishing and assessment organization. Concurrently, he serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Louis Thorold Foundation, a leading non-profit dedicated to educational initiatives and community development.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the Finance Director at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, Chris is responsible for managing the organization's overall financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. He plays a crucial role in aligning the organization's financial strategy with its strategic objectives, ensuring efficient resource allocation and sustainable growth. Chris has been instrumental in implementing robust financial controls and optimizing processes to enhance the organization's financial resilience and profitability.

Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Chris served as the Interim Finance Director at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, where he successfully navigated the organization through a critical transitional period. Before that, he held the position of Chief Financial Officer at Reaction Engines, a pioneering aerospace technology company, and Finance Director at Marshall Aerospace, a leading provider of aviation services. Throughout his career, Chris has consistently demonstrated his ability to drive financial transformation, optimize operational efficiency, and deliver tangible business impact.

Academic Background
Chris holds a Master's degree in Finance from the University of Cambridge, where he graduated with distinction. He also earned a Bachelor's degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Oxford, further solidifying his academic credentials in the field of finance.

Areas of Expertise

• Financial strategy and planning

• Financial reporting and analysis

• Budgeting and forecasting

• Operational efficiency and cost optimization

• Risk management and compliance

• Strategic decision-making

• Leadership and team management

Professional Impact
During his tenure at Reaction Engines, Chris played a pivotal role in securing a significant investment from the UK government, enabling the company to accelerate its research and development efforts in advanced propulsion systems. At Marshall Aerospace, he led the implementation of a comprehensive financial transformation program, resulting in improved cash flow management, enhanced profitability, and greater operational agility.

Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strategic mindset, and proven track record of financial leadership, Chris Thorold is well-positioned to drive the continued success of Cambridge University Press & Assessment. His expertise, coupled with his commitment to ethical and innovative financial practices, make him a valuable asset to the organization and the broader industry.