3 minutes with Ben Westerby

Ben Westerby is a Fractional CFO, coach, mentor and NED helping owner-managed businesses simplify finance and boost profitability. Founder of Westerby Consultancy, he mixes strategic insight with plain English and the odd #FridayFun joke. Ben uses LinkedIn to grow his business, build trust, and connect with like-minded professionals—no cold DMs, just helpful content and honest conversation.

Learn more about Ben before he joins this panel at Accountex Summit Manchester: ‘LinkedIn is not just for influencers – it’s for accountants too’

What inspired you to start using LinkedIn to grow your business?

I had been on LinkedIn for a while and started to post/engage more when I set up my business.

I also did a LinkedIn course with Ashley Leeds and he held me accountable and inspired content.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?  

The best bit about my job is making a real difference to people, both their work lives and lives outside work.

Understanding the positive impact I have on others is such a rewarding feeling.

How did you get into the world of finance?

I knew I wanted to be in finance from the age of 13. Initially I wanted to be a bank manager and then an accountant.

I left school after my A Levels and started studying CIMA on evenings and weekends – then never looked back.

What are you most looking forward to at Accountex Summit Manchester? 

I am most looking forward to seeing great people, being on a panel with 4 fantastic people, meeting up with others I might not have seen for a while, and listening to other talks. This is what it’s all about for me.

What do you want visitors to take away from your session?

I want people to take away the confidence to post and engage on LinkedIn. 3 years ago I was a LinkedIn lurker and watched from a distance, but then started posting.

People can find it tough at first, but most are supportive and encouraging, so just give it a go.

I also want people to come away from the session smiling!

Accountex Summit Manchester, taking place at Manchester Central on 23 September 2025.  

For further information, please visit www.accountexmanchester.com.

Book your free ticket here.

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