GrowCFO Show

#238 Why CFOs Who Ignore Excel & Automation Are Falling Behind https://open.spotify.com/episode/0pwzX0ujbANt79RKKxEDMD In this insightful episode of the GrowCFO Show, Kevin Appleby sits down with Richard Nero, a Microsoft Excel MVP and GrowCFO Facilitator who specializes in finance systems consultancy. The conversation explores the critical importance of Excel proficiency and automation for modern finance leaders. As businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision making, CFOs who fail to embrace these technological tools risk falling behind their more tech-savvy counterparts. Richard Nero brings his extensive experience in Excel, Power BI, and automation to the discussion, sharing how these tools can transform finance operations and create significant efficiencies. The episode provides valuable insights for finance professionals looking to enhance their technical capabilities and leverage automation to focus on more strategic aspects of their roles, rather than getting bogged down in manual processes that consume valuable time and resources. Key topics covered: Richard’s journey from early Excel exposure to becoming a Microsoft Excel MVP and finance systems consultant The critical importance of Power Query as a game-changing tool for finance professionals How automation can free finance teams from manual data entry to focus on analysis and strategic decision-making The competitive advantage gained by CFOs who embrace technological tools versus those who resist change The value of continuous learning and staying current with evolving finance technologies https://youtu.be/wIPL5EncKVg Links Richard Nero on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 00:23:12 Introduction of Richard Nero, Microsoft Excel MVP and finance systems consultant 00:25:30 Richard discusses his early exposure to Excel and career progression in finance 00:32:15 Exploration of the “Mastering Excel for Finance” course and its key components 00:38:40 Discussion of Power Query’s transformative impact on financial reporting 00:42:20 How automation is changing the role of finance professionals 00:48:15 The importance of continuous learning in the rapidly evolving finance technology landscape Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#237 The CFO’s Guide to Leading Sustainability in Business with Paula Kensington https://open.spotify.com/episode/2ywfZ18iMIe7TSHdpaVsYU In this episode of The GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby is joined by Paula Kensington, a seasoned finance professional from Australia with over 30 years of experience. Paula shares her journey from traditional accounting roles to becoming a passionate advocate for sustainability in business. With her unique perspective as both a former corporate CFO and now a fractional CFO, Paula offers valuable insights on how finance leaders can drive meaningful sustainability initiatives beyond mere compliance. The conversation explores the evolving role of CFOs in sustainability leadership, highlighting the critical need for finance professionals to develop an ESG mindset. Paula emphasizes that while many businesses have been engaged with sustainability for years, finance leaders are often “10 years late to the sustainability party,” only becoming involved when reporting becomes mandatory. She makes a compelling case for CFOs to leverage their ethical foundation and financial expertise to lead businesses toward practices that benefit all stakeholders, not just shareholders. Key topics covered: The unique position of CFOs to lead sustainability initiatives due to their ethical training and financial expertise The importance of moving beyond compliance to integrate sustainability into business strategy and culture The challenges of measuring and valuing non-financial impacts in traditional financial reporting The tension between investor expectations and sustainable business practices The need for finance professionals to develop new skills and mindsets to effectively lead in sustainability The upcoming wave of sustainability standards and how finance teams should prepare for them https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paid3zTnC6U&t=22s Links Paula Kensington on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:05:53 Paula shares her background and journey from traditional accounting to becoming a sustainability-focused CFO 0:08:15 Discussion on the CFO’s ethical foundation and responsibility to consider impacts beyond shareholders 0:09:56 Introduction to Paula’s work developing ESG mindset courses for finance professionals 0:12:30 Exploration of whether sustainability standards drive meaningful change or just compliance 0:18:45 Conversation about measuring and valuing sustainability impacts in financial terms 0:25:10 Discussion on the influence of different investor types on sustainability initiatives 0:32:20 Overview of skills finance professionals need to develop for sustainability leadership Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#236 Risk Is Changing. Is Your Board Keeping Up? with Patrick Dunne https://open.spotify.com/episode/52560DpsRV0fr9XStbziYw In this thought-provoking episode of The GrowCFO Show, Kevin Appleby engages with Patrick Dunne, an experienced Chair and Board Member in both business and social enterprise sectors, to explore the evolving landscape of risk management at the board level. The conversation examines how traditional approaches to risk governance may no longer be sufficient in today’s complex business environment, where non-financial risks increasingly dominate the risk landscape. Patrick Dunne, recently awarded an OBE for his services to philanthropy in Africa and the UK, shares insights from his viral LinkedIn article suggesting that the conventional audit and risk committee structure requires fundamental rethinking. The discussion challenges finance leaders to consider whether their current risk management frameworks are adequately equipped to address emerging threats, particularly those stemming from geopolitical instability, technological disruption, and social change. Dunne advocates for more diverse risk committees that incorporate varied perspectives across generations, backgrounds, and expertise. Key topics covered: Traditional audit and risk committees are often dominated by financially-oriented individuals from similar backgrounds, limiting their ability to identify and address non-financial risks Organizations should consider establishing separate risk committees with diverse membership to bring fresh perspectives to risk identification and management Effective risk management requires focusing on consequences rather than events, preparing for the impact of risks rather than the risks themselves The concept of “combinatorial risk” – where multiple events occur simultaneously – presents particular challenges that boards must learn to navigate Diversity in risk governance is not just about demographics but also about including different thinking styles, experiences, and generational perspectives https://youtu.be/97Y65cAzzBs Links Patrick Dunne on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:12:24 Patrick explains why the prevailing model of audit and risk committees needs rethinking in light of today’s dominant non-financial risks 0:18:35 Discussion of how focusing on consequences rather than events leads to more effective risk management, illustrated by examples from the COVID-19 pandemic 0:25:10 Patrick emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between “worrying” and “thinking” in risk management 0:32:18 Exploration of how diversity and inclusion in risk committees leads to better risk identification and mitigation strategies 0:41:05 Discussion of data security and cyber risk as critical areas requiring specialized expertise on risk committees 0:48:22 Patrick shares practical advice for boards looking to modernize their approach to risk governance Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#235 How AI Is Transforming Accounts Receivable with Ben Winter and Jeff Martini https://open.spotify.com/episode/0mxBSzi1Gzvigoo9manusQ In this insightful episode of The GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby explores how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing accounts receivable processes with guests Jeff Martini, CFO at Bishop Lifting, and Ben Winter, Co-Founder at Stuut. The conversation delves into the practical applications of AI in finance departments, particularly focusing on accounts receivable automation and the tangible benefits organizations are experiencing through implementation  The discussion highlights how AI is moving beyond simple chatbot functionality to transform entire AR processes, with Jeff sharing his company’s experience implementing AI-driven solutions that handle routine collection tasks while allowing human collectors to focus on more complex dispute resolutions. Ben provides valuable insights on the importance of focusing on business outcomes rather than technology features, emphasizing that accounts receivable is ultimately a revenue function that impacts customer experience. Both guests stress the importance of understanding AI’s capabilities and limitations to ensure successful implementation and meaningful results.  Key topics covered: AI implementation in accounts receivable is most successful when focused on specific business outcomes rather than implementing technology for its own sake Modern AI solutions can effectively handle three common collection scenarios: confirming payment, securing promises to pay, and sending requested documentation Human collectors remain essential for handling disputes and complex scenarios, with AI serving as a tool to enhance their capabilities rather than replace them Successful AI implementation requires coordination across departments including sales, account management, and fulfillment teams The rapid advancement of AI technology presents challenges for CFOs trying to stay current with capabilities, requiring trusted partnerships with technology providers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nb12TtUmSJ0 Links Ben Winter on LinkedIn Jeff Martini on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:00:11 Kevin Appleby introduces the episode topic on how CFOs are adopting AI in finance functions 0:13:47 Ben Winter discusses how AI adoption has evolved from technology-focused to outcome-focused implementations 0:18:29 Kevin raises the challenge of CFOs keeping up with rapidly advancing AI capabilities 0:26:29 Discussion on how AI provides additional insights by analyzing customer communications to identify reasons for late payments 0:43:31 Exploration of how AI is transforming accounts receivable beyond manual processes to provide actionable insights Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#234 Power BI, Python & Copilot: What Finance Teams Need to Know with Dan Stockdale https://open.spotify.com/episode/4gs9QiDVheQ0U2ZnGm4QBU In this insightful episode, host Kevin Appleby welcomes back Dan Stockdale, a GrowCFO facilitator and financial modeling specialist. Dan shares his journey from management accountant to financial modeling expert across diverse industries including media, advertising, defense, and retail. Currently working as a contractor for London Business School and creating online courses for finance professionals, Dan offers valuable insights on automation tools that are transforming finance departments. The conversation explores how Power BI, Power Query, Power Pivot, Python, and Microsoft Copilot are revolutionizing financial analysis and reporting. Dan emphasizes that while learning these tools initially requires investment, the practical implementation in day-to-day finance operations delivers significant time savings and value creation. He highlights that as organizations collect increasingly larger volumes of data from diverse sources, finance professionals who can leverage these automation tools become indispensable to their businesses. Key topics covered: Dan explains how Power BI enables finance teams to automate month-end reporting and create dynamic visualizations that tell compelling financial stories The conversation covers the growing importance of Python in Excel for predictive analytics and how it’s becoming more accessible to finance professionals Dan discusses how Microsoft Copilot is changing financial modeling, though he cautions about the need for human oversight when using AI-generated code The discussion explores how automation tools free finance professionals from routine tasks, allowing them to focus on delivering insights and strategic value Dan shares his plans to continuously update his courses as Microsoft releases new AI and automation features, ensuring finance professionals stay current with technological advancements https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ote8IemqGfs Links Dan Stockdale on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:11:44 Dan introduces his background as a management accountant who specialized in financial modeling across multiple industries 0:14:09 Dan discusses the learning curve of automation tools and the importance of practical implementation to solve business problems 0:22:48 The conversation covers data sources and the challenges of departments using Excel spreadsheets as databases 0:27:38 Discussion about the speed and efficiency benefits of automation tools compared to traditional manual processes 0:33:51 Exploration of the time-to-value proposition of Power BI and the challenges of data preparation Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#233 Post-Acquisition, Pre-Burnout: Surviving M&A as a CFO with Kathy Kinder https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wmvtV5W3CneLlcQwQ0qJh?si=Fejf8jefTK2Lje3nVPHB7g In this insightful podcast episode of the Grow CFO Show, Kevin sits down with Kathy Kinder. Their discussion centers on the critical challenges CFOs face during mergers and acquisitions, with particular emphasis on post-acquisition integration and avoiding burnout. Kathy brings extensive experience from her career spanning multiple private equity-owned companies where she managed numerous acquisitions, growing one company from $30 million to over $130 million in revenue.  The conversation highlights the importance of simplifying organizational structures post-acquisition to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Kathy shares valuable insights on managing teams through periods of change, emphasizing communication and addressing performance issues promptly. Her transition from corporate CFO roles to fractional CFO consulting reflects a growing trend among finance executives seeking more balanced careers while still leveraging their expertise to help growing companies avoid costly mistakes. About Kathy Kinder: Kathy Kinder is a former CFO with over 30 years of experience managing accounting, HR, legal and facilities. She focused her expertise as a CFO for tech companies, facilitating over 13 acquisitions. These acquisitions cover private asset and stock sales, carve outs of public companies, and public take private situations.  An original founder of LiftBridge, Kathy is now largely retired from direct client work but still contributes as a mentor to those wanting to grow their CFO skills, or for founders needing basic background or increased practical understanding of business and finance. Kathy, along with her co-founders Kay Whitaker and Ashley Vukovits, won the 2022 Mira Award for Service Partner of the Year. The judges for the Mira Awards, presented by TechPoint, ‘determined LiftBridge’s effectiveness with its clients is likely to have a lasting impact on the success of the Indiana tech ecosystem startups and scale-ups well past the critical five-year survival mark’. Kathy is a dog lover and former owner of a doggy boarding and daycare business.  Key topics covered: Kathy led finance teams through 11-12 acquisitions under Battery Ventures, managing accounting, revenue recognition, HR, facilities, and legal contracts while navigating the complexities of rapid growth  Post-acquisition integration requires simplification of organizational structures, including consolidating federal ID numbers to reduce redundant reporting and standardizing employee benefit plans across merged entities  Effective team management during M&A transitions depends on clear communication and treating team members as valued contributors rather than subordinates  Addressing underperforming team members promptly is essential during acquisitions to maintain overall team morale and productivity  The multi-faceted role of a CFO during M&A requires broad knowledge across business functions, with Kathy emphasizing that there are “no stupid questions” when navigating unfamiliar territory  Transitioning to fractional CFO work can provide a less stressful alternative for experienced finance executives while allowing them to mentor growing companies and help them avoid common pitfalls https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAYQOwPdyhA Links Kathy Kinder on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 00:01:04: Introduction to the podcast and explanation of the recording process with new mentor Kathy. 00:05:00-00:10:00: Kathy shares her background from “bean counter” at Stokely Van Camp to managing growth at a tech company that went public. 00:08:30-00:10:45: Experience leading finance through 11-12 acquisitions under Battery Ventures, growing from $30M to $130M in revenue. 00:12:30-00:14:00: Strategies for post-acquisition integration, including consolidating federal IDs and standardizing benefits. 00:15:00-00:17:30: Philosophy on team management: treating team members as volunteers and giving proper credit for their work. 00:17:45-00:19:00: Importance of addressing underperforming team members quickly to maintain morale during acquisitions. 00:22:00-00:24:30: Discussion of the CFO’s multi-faceted role requiring broad business knowledge beyond finance. 00:25:00-00:27:30: Kathy’s transition to fractional CFO work and the benefits of mentoring growing companies. 00:28:00-00:30:00: Exploration of AI’s potential in finance and how it’s helping streamline processes and reduce wasted time. 00:31:00-00:32:00: Closing thoughts on mentoring and encouragement for mentees to ask questions without fear. Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#232 The CFO’s Guide to Creating a High-Impact Global Team with Benyam Hagos https://open.spotify.com/episode/3xcOnyHg4WGip8LALiVb6T The role of a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in building and scaling a high-performance global finance team is critical to an organization’s success. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, CFOs must navigate complex challenges of team development, international expansion, and cultural transformation while maintaining strategic alignment and operational excellence. In this insightful podcast episode, Benyam Hagos, CFO of Form3, shares his comprehensive approach to creating a dynamic and adaptable finance function. The discussion explores the intricate process of transforming a startup finance team into a sophisticated, globally-oriented strategic partner, emphasizing the importance of talent development, cultural fit, and strategic recruitment. Key topics covered: Strategic Team Transformation Deliberate restructuring of finance team with 75% new talent Focus on specialist roles over generalist positions Emphasis on cultural alignment and professional development International Expansion Strategy Structured approach to building finance capabilities across multiple geographies Careful consideration of compliance and local market requirements Gradual, strategic hiring in new markets Leadership and Team Development Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth Transparent communication about organizational expectations Creating a flexible, remote-friendly work environment Recruitment and Talent Management Two-way interview process focusing on cultural compatibility Proactive approach to identifying and nurturing talent Encouraging internal mobility and career progression https://youtu.be/Bqatoyfy-F4 Links Benyam Hagos on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:07:05 – Discussion on learning and development challenges 0:11:09 – Background exploration of professional experiences 0:11:34 – Career trajectory and consulting background 0:12:29 – Insights into professional growth and partner dynamics 0:13:12 – Exploration of career progression challenges 0:15:44 – Podcast introduction and guest background 0:16:54 – Company overview and strategic positioning 0:22:03 – Personal challenges in transitioning to CFO role 0:26:18 – Team structuring and international expansion approach 0:48:10 – Building team cohesion in a remote work environment Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#231 Outgrowing Xero: When It’s Time to Level Up Your Finance Systems with Darren Cran https://open.spotify.com/episode/2u9wa8kz26D64O7Fc5NpMF In the rapidly evolving landscape of financial technology, businesses face critical decisions about scaling their accounting systems. Choosing the right financial management platform can make the difference between operational efficiency and strategic growth limitations. The Grow CFO Show podcast, hosted by Kevin Appleby, explores this crucial transition with Darren Cran, CEO of AccountsIQ, diving deep into the challenges and considerations of moving beyond entry-level accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks. The discussion centers on the pivotal moment when small to medium-sized enterprises outgrow their initial financial management tools and require more sophisticated solutions. Darren Cran brings a wealth of experience as a chartered accountant and technology leader, offering insights into the complex decision-making process of selecting an enterprise-level financial system. The conversation illuminates the nuanced requirements of businesses in the 20-50 employee range, where basic accounting software begins to show its limitations. AccountsIQ emerges as a strategic solution for businesses seeking a lightweight ERP system that bridges the gap between basic accounting platforms and complex enterprise resource planning tools. The podcast explores the critical factors businesses must consider, including reporting capabilities, integration potential, scalability, and the evolving role of technology in financial management. Cran emphasizes the importance of choosing a system that not only meets current needs but also provides flexibility for future growth. The discussion extends beyond system selection, delving into the transformative potential of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence in financial processes. Darren Cran provides a forward-looking perspective on how AI and cloud technologies are reshaping financial management, offering businesses unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, insights, and strategic decision-making. Key topics covered: Identifying the critical transition point for financial management systems Exploring the limitations of entry-level accounting platforms Analyzing the specific needs of mid-market businesses Understanding the importance of scalable financial technology Discussing the role of integration and reporting capabilities Examining the implementation process for advanced financial systems Investigating the potential of AI in financial management Comparing lightweight ERP solutions with traditional enterprise systems Highlighting the importance of user experience in financial software Exploring the future of financial technology and digital transformation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpOei-pHzBM Links Darren Cran on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:09:10 Darren Cran’s role at AccountsIQ 0:13:26 Podcast formal introduction 0:18:52 Market positioning discussion 0:24:25 Scalability of light ERP systems 0:39:17 FP&A capabilities exploration 0:44:28 AI’s impact on financial systems 0:50:31 Challenges of AI implementation Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#230 How to Build Your Legacy as a First-Time CFO with Danielle Keeven https://open.spotify.com/episode/4bbVHlHNa80oANEpgOdOZc In the dynamic world of corporate leadership, the journey of a first-time CFO represents a critical inflection point for emerging financial executives. Building a lasting legacy requires a strategic approach that combines technical expertise, leadership acumen, and personal growth. This podcast episode featuring Danielle Keeven, CFO at Vio.com, offers an insightful exploration of navigating the complex landscape of financial leadership, particularly for women breaking through traditional corporate barriers. Danielle Keeven’s narrative provides a compelling blueprint for aspiring financial leaders, highlighting the importance of transparency, continuous learning, and strategic thinking. Her transition from VP of Finance to CFO at Vio.com demonstrates the critical skills required to excel in top-tier financial roles. The discussion delves into the challenges of imposter syndrome, the value of building a supportive network, and the significance of embracing opportunities that push professional boundaries. The conversation explores the multifaceted nature of modern CFO responsibilities, extending far beyond traditional financial management. Keeven emphasizes the importance of being curious about all aspects of the business, managing lean teams, and driving strategic growth. Her approach to leadership is characterized by openness, continuous learning, and a commitment to supporting talent development within her organization. Throughout the podcast, Keeven shares her unique perspective on women in leadership, demonstrating how personal commitment and strategic approach can overcome systemic challenges. Her journey illustrates the importance of running towards professional challenges, building a supportive network, and maintaining a growth mindset in the ever-evolving world of corporate finance. Key topics covered: Strategic Transition to First-Time CFO Role Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Leadership Importance of Transparency and Continuous Learning Lean Team Management and Operational Efficiency Women in Leadership: Breaking Corporate Barriers Bootstrapped Company Growth Strategy Embracing Technological Innovations in Finance Building a Supportive Professional Network Strategic Approach to Professional Development Balancing Technical Expertise with Leadership Skills https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubGYbvY_EAQ Links Danielle Keeve on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:01:18 Career Progression Discussion 0:03:35 Bootstrapping Business Strategy 0:05:04 Professional Background Exploration 0:10:15 Imposter Syndrome Insights 0:16:53 Leadership Learning Experiences 0:22:01 Funding and Growth Perspectives 0:30:35 Expanding CFO Responsibilities 0:38:45 Team Development Approach 0:47:14 Technology and AI in Finance 0:51:32 Future Professional Development Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net

#229 The Finance Playbook: What Robotics Startups Can Teach About Operational Agility with Maria Ghibu https://open.spotify.com/episode/2BrVUEFhCiaYZSTsz10XvO The finance landscape is undergoing a transformative revolution, driven by technological innovation and unprecedented operational challenges. Operational agility has emerged as a critical strategic imperative for startups navigating complex technological ecosystems, particularly in high-stakes sectors like robotics and biotech. Maria Ghibu, a distinguished Global CFO at Testhouse, brings a wealth of international experience and strategic insights into the intricate world of technology-driven entrepreneurship. Her professional journey spans multiple countries and critical roles in post-merger integration, fundraising, and strategic financial management, offering a comprehensive perspective on operational excellence in challenging technological domains. The podcast episode delves deep into the multifaceted challenges of financing and scaling robotics startups, illuminating the critical intersection of technological innovation, financial strategy, and investor relations. Ghibu’s expertise provides a nuanced understanding of the complex ecosystem where long research and development cycles, regulatory hurdles, and investor expectations create a demanding operational landscape. Key topics covered: Strategic Financial Navigation in Technology Ecosystems Comprehensive Fundraising Strategies for Robotics Startups Operational Agility as a Competitive Differentiator Investor Relationship Management Methodologies Navigating Complex R&D Cycles in Technology Sectors Professional Competency Framework Development Strategic Network Building and Professional Connections Experiential Learning and Organizational Transformation Integrated Finance and Operational Leadership Approach Critical Success Factors in Emerging Technology Ventures https://youtu.be/xkhJmKajXG8 Links Maria Ghibu on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps 0:02:55 – Exploring Innovative Learning Platforms 0:16:27 – International Professional Development Trajectory 0:27:20 – Fractional CFO Strategic Insights 0:35:06 – Advanced Investor Engagement Techniques 0:40:54 – Career Evolution and Strategic Positioning 0:44:05 – Governance and Leadership Perspectives 0:47:21 – Professional Relationship Ecosystem 0:48:51 – Podcast Synthesis and Reflection 0:49:49 – Post-Recording Strategic Dialogue 0:50:55 – Organizational Talent Development Strategies Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars. Premium members can also access our extensive training center and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enroll in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programs here. You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net