Most members see the results – incentives, events, recognition and support, but rarely the systems behind them. District finances can feel complex, distant, or even intimidating.
Behind the numbers is a person who brings clarity, structure and calm to the role. Meet Güler, District 91’s Finance Manager for 2025-2026.
In this interview, Güler shares her story, demystifies district finances and explains how clubs can turn incentives into real momentum.
1. Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you based, and what do you do outside Toastmasters?
I am Guler, living in South London, a mother of two beautiful girls, and soon joining the granny club 🙂
I work for The Delta Group, purchasing sustainable materials for large-format printers. We are specialists in delivering premier visual communications in Europe through dynamic multi-channel marketing services, empowering brands to connect with consumers across the retail, consumer brands and film and entertainment sectors.
2. How did you first hear about Toastmasters, and what inspired you to get involved at the District level?
I joined Toastmasters over 9 years ago with a view to spread my “joie de vivre” to others. This came about after uplifting a friend in need, she said “why don’t you become a motivational speaker”? That same night the google search drew me to Toastmasters to my nearest club, The Speakers of Croydon.
3. What’s one fun fact about you that most members wouldn’t know?
I have 3 birthdays – ask me about it when you next see me and I’ll summarise within 2min 🙂
4. Many members may not fully know what a Finance Manager does. How would you describe your role in simple terms?
Compare me to the clubs Treasurer 🙂
I handle the day-to-day accounting and long-term financial health of the district for the year 2025-2026 so that other leaders can focus on membership and educational goals.
5. What does a typical month look like for you in this role?
At Toastmasters?
Daily approvals of expenses, expenses and expenses claimed by our leaders 🙂
Weekly District Leadership Team (DLT) meetings
Monthly bank reconciliations
Supporting members and clubs with financial queries.
6. What is one thing you wish clubs or members understood better about District finances?
As a district we are not here to make money but to use our allocated funds in line with toastmasters protocols and the district mission “we build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence”
7. What has been your proudest achievement in your role so far?
Creating the District Budget. It was a headache to start with but once I was in the zone and with the help of Toastmasters International, it is my bible that guides me through the year ensuring the district is not over or under spending.
8. Is there a financial process or tool you think clubs should use more effectively?
“Making Concur your friend not your enemy” The district has dedicated a large portion of our funds to club growth and recognition in the form of INCENTIVE AWARDS which you, as a club officer can claim back on the Toastmasters Concur Expense portal.
I would highly recommend clubs to visit the District 91 Website and look at the following pages;
9. How does your work help strengthen our District’s overall mission and member experience?
By managing finances effectively, I provide the essential backbone that allows the educational and club-building leads of the district to thrive. Therefore directly contributing to the supportive and positive learning experience for every member.
10. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned while serving as Finance Manager?
Fear of Concur?
I’d love to know what stops leaders and clubs not claiming for their valid expenses or incentive awards.
11. Who has inspired or supported you the most during your leadership journey?
Too many to mention :-).. every one of you!
12. Do you have any advice for members who may want to serve at the District level someday?
Just sign up, don’t think about the what if’s or that you may not be good enough for the role… let your willingness and love to serve our members guide you to some amazing new experiences.
And the final question, do you have a favourite holiday tradition or end-of-year ritual?
Lock myself up inside the house, turn off the phone and binge watch a Netflix series:-)
Thank you Guler. District finances are not about money for its own sake, they are about enabling people to grow. If you’re a club officer, explore the incentives available, claim what you’ve earned and let the systems support the great work you’re already doing.
So next time you submit a claim, think less “paperwork” and more “possibility.” Behind every approved expense is a district investing in its people, and a Finance Manager making it all work.
