About Third FD

Third FD was founded in 2022 in Chippenham, Wiltshire by Ben Dowdeswell. Recognising the unique challenges faced by small and medium sized charities in navigating complex financial landscapes while striving to maximize their impact, Ben sought to plug the gap with specialised and bespoke expertise and support. By establishing a virtual FD company tailored specifically to the charity sector, his aim is to offer solutions that would enable charities to optimise their financial operations, enhance transparency and governance, and ultimately amplify their capacity to effect meaningful social change through insight-led financial strategy, planning and support. 

As a Virtual Finance Director, Ben supports CEOs and COOs of small and medium-sized charities with all aspects of financial management, from insight, budgeting and reporting to scenario planning, risk management and financial controls.   

Far from being an-at-arms-length consultant, Ben will fully integrate within your organisation at all levels, from internal teams to the trustees to any external accountants you employ. Following a full financial review and understanding of your goals and objectives, he'll prepare a strategy and plan and set about helping you deliver it. 

Third FD isn't about promising short-term quick fixes; Ben looks to establish long-term relationships with clients and joins them on a journey to ensure they can achieve their long-term goals. 

Ben's satisfaction comes from seeing the support he provides remove pressure from CEOs, COOs, and, indeed, at all levels of the organisation, while being part of teams that are driving change in their various fields and do so with such commitment and passion. He loves solving problems when they occur and experiencing the wins along the way. 

Ben has 15+ years of experience in third-sector and SME finance. He started as a junior Accountant before graduating into roles as a Finance Manager and then Finance Director. He is a Chartered Management Accountant (CIMA).

In his spare time Ben likes to keep fit through cycling and running, and ran the Manchester Marathon in 2023. He's passionate about music, and enjoys food and cooking. 

Connect with Ben on LinkedIn