DVC Commercial Roofing Finance & Purchasing Manager
5 minutes with Natalie: DVC Roofing Finance & Purchasing Manager
Behind every successful roofing project is a team working hard behind the scenes to keep operations running smoothly. In this edition of our DVC Roofing Team Q&A, we sit down with our Finance and Purchasing Manager to learn more about the vital role they play in supporting projects across the business.
We discuss what a typical day looks like in finance and purchasing, what they enjoy most about the roofing industry, how their role has evolved at DVC Roofing, and their advice for anyone considering a career in the sector.
1. What does your role as Finance and Purchasing Manager at DVC Roofing involve on a day-to-day basis?
Firstly, my day usually starts with strong coffee, because spreadsheets and people are much friendlier after caffeine! No two days are ever quite the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about the role. Whether I’m reviewing budgets, working with suppliers, placing orders, or making sure materials are on site when needed, there’s always something to keep me busy.
It’s all about keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes – making sure the numbers add up and the deliveries turn up! Attention to detail is key because even a small discrepancy can have a knock-on effect. Fortunately, I quite enjoy a good detective mission when numbers don’t behave themselves.
2. What do you enjoy most about working in finance and purchasing within the roofing industry?
One of the things I enjoy most is the balance between finance and purchasing. It keeps me involved in lots of different areas of the business and means there’s never a dull moment. I enjoy solving problems, keeping projects moving, and convincing myself that spreadsheets are actually exciting.
The roofing industry is also incredibly fast-paced and unpredictable. You’re not just looking at numbers on a screen; you’re seeing how those decisions directly impact projects, customers, and the wider business. Perhaps most importantly, I enjoy being part of a close-knit team. Everyone works towards the same goal, and there’s a real sense of achievement when a project comes together successfully.
3. How has your role evolved since joining DVC Roofing?
When I first joined DVC Roofing, my role was largely focused on finance, with a lot of my time spent managing accounts, monitoring budgets, processing invoices, and ensuring everything balanced as it should. As the company has grown and evolved, so has my role, which has made the journey rewarding! I’ve also had the opportunity to work more closely with different departments across the business.
Understanding how finance, purchasing, operations, and project delivery all connect has given me a wider perspective and helped me play a more active role in supporting the team. Of course, with that growth has come a longer to-do list and a few more grey hairs along the way! But it’s also brought more opportunities to learn, develop new skills, and make a meaningful contribution to the company. Looking back, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how both DVC Roofing and my role within it have evolved, and I’m proud to have been part of that journey.
4. What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in finance and purchasing within roofing industry?
My advice would be to stay organised, ask plenty of questions, and be open to learning from the people around you. A career in finance and purchasing isn’t just about spreadsheets and budgets, it’s about problem-solving, communication, and helping the business operate effectively.
The roofing industry has a lot to offer if you’re willing to get stuck in and learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, even if they seem obvious. Some of the most useful knowledge comes from colleagues with years of industry experience, and there is always something new to learn.
The roofing and construction sectors have their own terminology, processes, and challenges, so taking the time to listen and learn from those around you can be incredibly valuable and important. I’d also encourage people to embrace problem-solving.
Things don’t always go according to plan, materials can be delayed, costs can change, and unexpected challenges can arise. Being able to stay calm, think logically, and find practical solutions is a huge asset in both finance and purchasing.
It’s also important to remember that communication skills are just as valuable as technical skills. Building strong relationships with suppliers, colleagues, and customers helps create trust and often makes resolving challenges much easier.
Some days you’ll spend as much time talking to people as you do looking at figures. The roofing industry may not always be the first sector people think of when considering a career in finance and purchasing, but it’s a fast-paced, rewarding environment where you can make a real impact.
