An introduction to debt advisory: A practical guide for business owners
Managing business finances is a constant balancing act, especially when dealing with debt. Whether you're facing cash flow pressure, growing rapidly, or navigating uncertain markets, understanding your options is essential. This is where debt advisory services can play a crucial role.
In this article, we explain what debt advisory means, when to seek help, and how professional support can unlock better outcomes for your business.
What is debt advisory?
Debt advisory is a specialist financial service that helps businesses assess, manage, and restructure their debt. The goal is to ensure your funding arrangements are sustainable, cost-effective, and aligned with your business strategy.
Debt advisers provide independent guidance on:
- Refinancing existing loans
- Sourcing new funding (e.g. asset-based lending, invoice finance)
- Restructuring debts during financial difficulty
- Managing creditor negotiations
- Preparing for growth, sale, or turnaround
The service is particularly valuable during times of change, such as rapid expansion, merger & acquisition (M&A) activity, or financial distress.
When should a business seek debt advisory support?
Knowing when to ask for help can be the difference between recovery and insolvency. Here are key moments when debt advisory can add value:
- Cash flow challenges
If you're regularly juggling payments, falling behind on HMRC obligations, or relying on short-term borrowing, it may be time to review your financing structure.
- Business growth
Expanding your operations? Entering new markets? Debt advisers can help structure funding that supports growth without overextending your balance sheet.
- Refinancing or restructuring
Approaching the end of a loan term or struggling with high interest costs? A debt adviser can negotiate improved terms or suggest alternative lenders.
- Financial distress
In times of difficulty, debt advisory services can help you manage creditor relationships, avoid insolvency, and create a plan for recovery.
How does the debt advisory process work?
Each situation is different, but a typical debt advisory process includes:
Step 1: Initial consultation
An adviser will assess your current financial position, including debt levels, cash flow, and lender relationships.
Step 2: Strategy development
They’ll identify suitable options and create a tailored plan, whether that involves refinancing, restructuring, or sourcing new finance.
Step 3: Lender engagement
Debt advisers negotiate with banks, alternative lenders, or finance related creditors on your behalf to secure the best terms.
Step 4: Implementation and ongoing support
Once a solution is agreed, they’ll support the transition, explain any financial covenants/conditions and monitor performance (where required) to keep your business on track.
What are the benefits of professional debt advisory?
Bringing in external expertise provides several advantages:
- Independent advice - aligned to your goals, not the lender's
- Access to a wider lender network - including specialist or alternative finance
- Improved terms - on interest rates, repayment schedules, or covenants
- Creditor confidence - showing you're taking proactive steps
- Reduced stress - letting you focus on running your business
Partnering with a trusted debt funding advisory provider ensures you benefit from deep market knowledge and robust lender relationships.
We’re here to help
We understand the challenges business owners face. Our dedicated debt advisory team combines financial insight, commercial experience, and a strong lender network to help you navigate change with confidence.
Whether you're looking to raise capital, reduce costs, or regain control of your finances, we can help you make informed decisions and secure the best outcome for your business.
If you’re concerned about your business debt or simply want to review your financing, please get in touch with a member of our specialist team via the form below.
