Nicole Owen

Nicole Owen is helping redefine what finance leadership looks like in fast-growth, digital-first businesses. As Head of Finance at Power Sheds—an award-winning UK startup—Nicole has built a finance function from scratch, embraced AI, and cultivated a team-first culture that thrives on adaptability.

We sat down with Nicole to talk transformation, tech, and the joy of unwinding with a Corona in a log cabin!

From foundations to finance

Nicole joined Power Sheds during a crucial phase of scale-up. The business, founded in 2019, had grown from selling 15 sheds a week on eBay to becoming a multi-channel brand employing over 100 people.

She saw a unique opportunity: to shape a finance team in her own vision, without legacy blockers.

"In previous roles, change was always a battle. At Power Sheds, we were building from the ground up—no old habits, just room to create."

Nicole implemented core systems, recruited cross-trained talent, and helped embed an ethos of flexibility and collaboration across teams.

Finance with a startup mindset

Nicole sees adaptability as non-negotiable. Her department isn’t confined to the spreadsheet. Her team has helped recruit for manufacturing, support HR systems, and implement time-saving automation.

"We all muck in. It’s not about whose job it is—it’s about getting the job done."

She places high value on attitude over experience when hiring, and focuses heavily on training. One team member is currently completing a CIMA qualification, with learning that reflects modern finance needs—including AI and big data.

Transforming through tech

AI isn’t a buzzword for Nicole. It’s embedded in daily operations. From Photoshop automation for product imagery to AI chat tools on the website, she’s already seeing major returns.

"We saved thousands by using AI to generate custom product images. That’s money we can reinvest."

In finance, Nicole is driving the move from Sage 50 to a more advanced ERP platform with AI integration, focusing on automation, data integrity, and strategic value.

She believes AI won’t replace finance professionals—but it will replace those who resist adapting.

Lessons in leadership

Nicole credits her growth to hands-on leadership and the trust to take ownership. Her biggest influence? Leaders who included her in decision-making, not those who shut her out.

She now mirrors that approach—bringing transparency, opportunity, and inclusion to her own team.

"You haven’t really become a leader until you’ve helped someone lead a team of their own."

She also believes in showing the full business picture—including the numbers—to everyone, not just senior leadership.

Fail fast, learn faster

Not everything has gone to plan. An early tech project was abandoned after skipping key scoping and underinvesting in expert advice. The takeaway?

"Consultants are expensive, but mistakes are more costly."

Nicole now puts rigorous scoping and ROI evaluation at the heart of all major finance system changes.

What’s next

Power Sheds has bold ambitions: become the number-one garden building brand in Europe. The company has already launched in Germany, with plans to expand country-by-country and diversify its product range.

For Nicole, that means ensuring the finance foundations are solid—and scalable.