EC Credit Control
Mel Curwood
My point of difference
Why Work With Mel? I work side by side with you to uncover what's really going on and then build the structure that gets you back in control. Here's what makes working with me different: I see what others miss. I go beyond the symptoms to the root of what's causing friction, delays, or risks. I make it real. process flowcharts, internal Infrastructure and credit control tools — we map, document, and implement them in a way that your team understands and uses. I bring legal protection and practical tools. I provide you with access to Terms of Trade, PPSR, and security documents, all of which are integrated into the systems we develop. I've got your back. I've worked with hundreds of business owners. I know how much you're carrying. This is about making business easier, safer, and more aligned with the life you want to lead. If you're ready to fix the messy bits and build a business that works structurally, financially, and practically
About
Your strategic partner in Credit Control Strategy and Infrastructure & Education Even strong, established businesses can have gaps in their cashflow systems. When you’re focused on delivering, leading teams, and keeping projects moving, it’s easy to miss the subtle risks that slow down payments or put pressure on your working capital.
Products and services
Cash flow is key to any business. My role is based in education and working side by side with you to help you spot those gaps, strengthen your systems, and protect what you’ve built — so your cashflow supports growth, not stress. Everything I deliver is education-led — through workshops, training, and structured learning — designed to build internal capability and practical implementation. Together, we’ll build the clarity, structure, and confidence. It's about protecting what you've built, backing yourself, and building a business that works for you.ch one is best positioned to receive payment and foster healthy business growth. Cashflow & Risk Strategic Learning Session This is about learning to identify what’s happening upstream in your business that's blocking cashflow and placing all the risk on your shoulders. It’s about getting paid faster and no longer compromising yourself or funding other people’s projects with your profit and working capital. If you’re delivering the work but payment is delayed due to retentions, approvals, disputes or handovers — or you’re being treated like a free bank — this customised 1:1 business training & coaching session is designed for you. If you want to learn more about how I can help support you in doing business and life on your terms and in your own way visit www.melcurwood.co.nz or email hello@melcurwood.co.nz
Why I am a member
Being a NZ Businesswomen means that I am surround by an extended support network of friends and professionals. The Venus Network members are like minded and successful woman who understand very closely the challenges and triumphs that come from being a professional business leader and how that success works in balance with the the many other commitments we have in our lives.
An offer for you
I love working collaboratively and consultatively with all business owners. I enjoy spending time getting to know different business - where they are at and what will add the best value to business to help secure them for the future with confidence and knowledge.
Testimonials
"I’ve always been a huge advocate for what Soda organises, so attending Mel’s Masterclass was a no-brainer. I was hoping to deepen my financial knowledge, and one insight that really stuck with me was Mel’s comment about small businesses essentially acting as a credit facility — it was eye-opening. The session helped me rethink how I approach invoicing and client relationships. I’ve started separating myself from the accounts side to maintain professionalism and reduce empathy in that space. Clients don’t need to know I handle both sides — now I invoice as if it’s coming from a third party. Even though we have 7-day terms, payments often get dragged out, so this shift has been helpful. The group dynamic was energetic and engaging, though I did feel some people held back a bit, which made it hard to follow their input without knowing their business context. That said, the group size was just right — I wouldn’t want it any bigger. If you’re new to business and considering one of Mel’s Masterclasses, I’d say absolutely go for it. You’ll gain valuable insights and practical strategies to strengthen your financial foundations." Amelia Gardner – Pharmacy Recruit "Mel’s Masterclass was a fantastic experience. Being in the finance sector, I was initially drawn to the session out of interest—particularly around Terms of Trade rather than cash flow. I went in open to learning, and I absolutely did. One key takeaway was realizing our Terms of Trade needed reviewing. I made changes straight away, removing a clause that no one ever completed because it simply wasn’t necessary. What really stood out was the group setting. It was relaxed, open, and full of energy. Hearing how others manage their cash flow and business challenges was incredibly valuable. Mel created a space where everyone felt comfortable sharing, and her knowledge and approach made the whole experience enjoyable and insightful. If you're considering attending one of Mel’s Masterclasses, I’d say definitely go for it—especially if the topic is relevant to your business. You’ll walk away with practical insights and feel empowered to make positive changes." Wendy Ellery-Jones, Everest People "I joined Mel’s Masterclass mainly for the networking opportunities and to gather ideas from others in business. One key takeaway for me was the importance of understanding a new client’s budget upfront so we can tailor our services to suit their needs — that really stuck with me. The session also helped me shift how I look at projects, outcomes, and budgets. It gave me a broader outlook and a more strategic approach to planning. The group energy was great — everyone contributed, shared ideas, and it felt like a really supportive environment. It was a good group to be part of. If you’re thinking about attending one of Mel’s Masterclasses, I’d definitely recommend it. She’s a great presenter, keeps the session engaging, and delivers valuable insights." Raiyaz – Oyonnx
Latest news
I’m so excited to share that I’ve just received confirmation that I’ve been accepted into the Regional Business Partners Network as a Regional Business Partner service provider here in the Waikato. This is something I’ve been working towards for five years — since before John’s cancer diagnosis put everything on pause — so it feels pretty special to finally be here. What this means is that I can expand my offering to include the education space: delivering workshops, training, and customised programs for businesses. The focus is on all the upstream stuff — helping business owners get paid faster, reduce the amount of risk they carry, and feel more confident having clear conversations with their clients about roles, responsibilities, and payment.