About the client
Nequinox Studios is a video game development company that helps bring blockbuster titles to mass markets.
Established in 2015 but launched officially in 2018 by programmer-turned-CEO Anthony Robinson, the team at Nequinox has built an excellent reputation for all-round gaming expertise. As one of the up-and-coming developers in their space, they can work with any studios and publishers that require artists, designers, programmers, and production to help bring a client’s vision to life.
To date, the team at Nequinox has shipped more than 50 AAA games, including the hugely popular Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
The challenge
When CEO Anthony Robinson first approached Dartcell, his business was facing a perfect storm of events that had he and his team concerned for its future. Game cancellations, industry-wide redundancies and the loss of a large client combined to well and truly pop the Covid bubble that had seen Nequinox performing strongly over the last couple of years.
In Anthony’s own words, it was a ‘wobbly’ time – but he knew it was going to be temporary, and he was determined to prevent lay-offs among his 30+-staff.
After reaching out to Dartcell and speaking with lead finance director Russell, Anthony recognised that he needed to get a better handle on his finances if he was going to steer his ship through such tricky waters. He also knew he had to make big decisions if he wanted to stay afloat and outlive his competitors.
The solution
Russell reviewed the company’s current plans and spent time understanding its position. He provided:
- Full budget planning
- Cashflow forecasting
- Scenario analysis
- Financial risk planning
- Comprehensive management reports
He also:
- Introduced monthly board meetings
- Began liaising with third parties – such as accountants and lawyers – on Nequinox’s behalf
- Brokered a mutually acceptable deal with an incoming company Chairperson
- Instigated a review of the company’s Articles of Association to ensure they were fit for purpose
In addition, Dartcell’s senior bookkeeper Claire took on the bookkeeping to ensure accurate record keeping and to free up more of Anthony’s time.
Now, Dartcell provides a full outsourced finance director and bookkeeping service that delivers extra value with regular face-to-face board meetings, presenting clear, concise financial information and providing meaningful input into wider strategic business discussions and decisions.
The results
Nequinox successfully overcame a difficult phase with Russell’s support. No redundancies were made – indeed, the company is now taking on additional staff, and having improved the financial visibility he has helped Anthony understand when to make investments in the business and new opportunities for growth. Since Dartcell’s involvement, the company has appointed a new Chairperson, and turnover is on course to increase by 60% year on year.
Final words from Anthony:
“Russell integrated into our business brilliantly and it feels like he is a part of our own team. He provides professional, non-biased advice and is particularly good at helping us approach decisions more objectively. We feel that Russell is quick to respond to our needs and has always got his eye on our progress. We like the fact that he is always prepared to meet with us in person to provide us with updates.
“Getting Dartcell involved with the business was one of the best business decisions we have ever made. We would have been a lot less confident in our decisions if Russell wasn’t there to guide us through such a rocky period. We look forward to continuing to work with Claire and Russell and expect to take up more of their time as we aim for even bigger things.”