The CFO Show What Makes a Top-Tier Private Equity CFO?
Aug 12, 2025
Scott Engler, CEO & Co-founder of Sync Executive Partners, shares invaluable insights for those stepping into a CFO role in private equity. He discusses the critical mindset shift needed for success: ownership of all outcomes. Engler emphasizes that modern CFOs must drive transformation beyond financial reporting, focusing on performance, alignment, and stakeholder management. He also highlights the importance of building credibility and the unique challenges of the PE landscape, making this guidance essential for finance professionals aiming for excellence.
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Own All Outcomes
- Adopt an ownership mindset and treat the company like your own asset.
- Work across functions and fix problems even when they fall outside finance.
CFO Is The Most Powerful Seat In PE
- In private equity the CFO seat can create disproportionate value when paired with a strong CEO.
- Effective CFOs often become the central driver of execution and investor confidence.
What Separates A-Player CFOs
- A-players anticipate decisions, dig into problems, and drive outcomes quickly.
- B and C players provide guidance or governance but lack that proactive ownership.
