Kybos CEO Stephen Hambling talks to top CFO (Chief Financial Officer) readiness coach Andy Burrows from Supercharged Finance explains who explains what makes a good CFO.
“It’s crucial to note that being a CFO isn’t solely about having the most technical expertise in the room. While technical skills are essential, they serve as the foundation. In my interactions with CFOs and reflecting on my own journey to becoming an FD, a solid accounting background played a significant role. People trusted me to answer finance and accounting queries because of my expertise. However, CFOs we encounter aren’t necessarily Excel wizards or systems experts; they are more than that. The danger lies in assuming expertise in areas where they may lack proficiency.
I believe that CFOs need to excel in both business acumen and leadership qualities. Understanding the business, strategic insights, and key performance drivers are fundamental. To operate commercially and leverage the business’s strengths, one must grasp its operations beyond just financial metrics. Collaborating with non-finance colleagues, like marketing managers, offers valuable insights into driving business value. By stepping into their shoes, CFOs can ask the right questions and unearth essential information.
Apart from business acumen, leadership is equally critical. A common pitfall for CFOs is becoming detached from their finance teams while being engrossed in boardroom discussions. Effective leadership involves engaging with the team, fostering collaboration, and aligning everyone towards common goals. Communication, influencing skills, and strong leadership are essential attributes for a successful CFO.”
About Andy Burrows
LinkedIn Top Voice | CFO readiness coach | Business-focused Finance writer, speaker and trainer | Finance leadership and career coach | Finance transformation consultant and project manager. Online trainer and coach for business-focused Finance professionals. If you’re on the journey from accountant to CFO, then Andy can help you. Popular speaker and blogger superchargedfinance.com LinkedIn Top Voice. Experienced senior Finance leader, with all-round Finance experience in businesses of all sizes.
About Stephen Hambling,
CEO and Founder of Kybos, a UK based Jedox partner.
I provide simple, clear, commercial forward looking financial support to founders, entrepreneurs and CFO’s of Small and Medium sized companies. Typically I’m the special projects guy, commercial troubleshooting, systems help, M&A or cashflow & turnarounds. I’ve implemented several hundred finance systems. Implementations are not a core skill set for the average finance team, so it’s easy for a project to go off track. Clear simple guidance before, during and after an implementation can make the world of difference.
Aout Kybos
Kybos is a dedicated UK Jedox gold partner. We build planning and analysis solutions that deliver value fast using accountancy qualified consultants. Whether you want a fully customised application or to build upon an existing solution, Kybos consultants are here to help.