CFO 4.0 - The Future of Finance

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, host Hannah Munro shares what it really takes to deliver a successful finance system implementation. From preparing your team to managing risks and ensuring a smooth go-live, Hannah offers practical insights and lessons learned from real-world projects.You’ll learn:How to prepare your team and build urgency using the change cycleThe critical stages of a finance implementation – from planning to go-liveThe role of stakeholders and how to use a RACI matrix to clarify responsibilitiesWhy proof of concept and thorough testing are key to stress-free deliveryBest practices for training, capacity planning, and super-user supportTips to avoid common pitfalls like scope creep, poor data migration, and resistance to changeLinks mentioned: Previous session: Transformation TroubleshooterConnect with Hannah MunroExplore more Finance Transformation Live sessionsWhich Sage Product is Right For You Quiz!How to Map Out Your Finance Integration ProjectHow to Assess Your Current Finance SystemCustomer Success StoriesBook a discovery call  Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro talks with Tariq Munir, Managing Partner at Finspyr and author of Reimagine Finance, about how CFOs and finance leaders can lead successful transformation in the age of AI. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why transformation should be embedded in everyday finance work, not treated as a separate roleHow to influence change without authority and build a “transformation snowball”What good governance looks like — and the pitfalls that can derail changeHow to measure AI project success beyond ROI, including adoption and engagementThe role of subject matter experts in training and maintaining effective AI modelsHow to simplify workflows and manage complexity before introducing AILinks mentioned:Tariq's Linkedin Learn more about FinspyrTariq's book Reimagine Finance  Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Ian Pugh, CFO at Precise TV, shares his insights on the role of finance in private equity. He discusses the significance of building trust with investors and effectively managing crises. Ian reflects on lessons learned from a serious fraud incident and how to create engaging board presentations that cater to diverse stakeholders. He highlights the delicate balance between governance and growth, emphasizing the need for effective communication during business transitions and the essential role of CFOs in fostering a supportive team culture.

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro chats with Andrew Brummer, CFO at Distributed, about the realities of finance leadership in early-stage and high-growth businesses. From managing cashflow crises to building future-ready finance teams, Andrew shares lessons from his unconventional journey and startup experience.Topics covered include:Andrew’s unique path from event management to CFOBuilding lean, scalable finance functions for startupsManaging cashflow challenges with creativity and clarityThe strategic role of FP&A in early-stage businessesNavigating investor relationships across VC and PEAdvice for new CFOs on due diligence, early wins, and adding value fastLinks mentioned:Andrew's LinkedinLearn more about Distributed  Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this Transformation Troubleshooter edition of Financial Transformation Live, hosts Hannah Munro and Neil Lynchehaun tackle real-world finance transformation challenges shared by listeners. From project overload to spreadsheet sprawl, they offer practical strategies to help finance leaders navigate complexity with confidence.In this episode, they cover:How to manage multiple overlapping transformation projects without burning out your teamApproaches to reprioritising and phasing work to avoid chaos and maintain momentumWhat to do when a new CFO questions an in-progress finance system rolloutThe importance of focusing on outcomes—not just solutions—when defending project decisionsHow to engage teams stuck in Excel and manual processes without triggering resistancePractical ways to build buy-in, uncover hidden capabilities, and lead change effectivelyLinks mentionedPrevious session: Future Proofing your Finance Software ArchitectureConnect with Hannah MunroConnect with Neil Lynchehaun Explore more Finance Transformation Live sessionsWhich Sage Product is Right For You Quiz!Our Implementation Options and MethodologyCustomer Success StoriesBook a discovery call  Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro speaks with Andy Mellor, Fractional CFO at Summit 17 Ltd, about navigating M&A, preparing for financial events, and leading finance teams through high-growth environments.Key topics covered:Andy’s career journey and transition into fractional CFO workStructuring finance teams to support rapid, acquisition-led growthManaging M&A deals end-to-end, including due diligence and integrationCommunicating effectively with sellers, stakeholders, banks, and PE firmsBuilding robust financial models and scenarios for funding strategiesPreparing businesses to be “event ready” with data, tools, and disciplineLinks mentionedAndy's LinkedinLearn more about Summit 17 Ltd Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

In this engaging discussion, Jeremy Earnshaw, a seasoned CFO and executive coach, shares crucial insights on the first 60–90 days in a CFO role. He emphasizes the need for data integrity as a foundation for strategic decisions. Jeremy also addresses building trust with the CEO and team, managing cash flow effectively, and avoiding early mistakes. He highlights the importance of communication and team dynamics for a successful transition, encouraging new CFOs to leverage executive coaching for guidance during this critical phase.

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Matt Topham, Director of Practical CFO, to explore what makes a modern CFO truly effective—from KPIs to strategic decision-making.Key topics covered:Matt’s unconventional journey to CFOThe realities of working as a fractional CFO and identifying clients ready for changeHow to use KPIs like productivity, overhead rate, and LTV to CAC to guide decisionsWhy speed and imperfection often beat precision in fast-moving environmentsManaging cash, growth, and riskPractical tips for new CFOs on building meaningful KPIs and driving strategic clarityLinks mentioned: Matt's Linkedin Learn more about Practical CFO Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Discover the four pillars that ensure finance software architecture stands the test of time: data, APIs, expandability, and maintenance. Learn how multi-dimensional data structures enhance reporting and AI capabilities. Explore the pitfalls to avoid, such as over-customization and inadequate data design. Uncover the importance of layered tech stacks that support various financial functions. Plus, hear strategies for fostering continuous improvement and staying adaptable to ever-changing business needs!

Send us your thoughtsIn this insightful episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro is joined by Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner at Sullivan Street Partners, for a no-holds-barred session of myth-busting in the world of private equity. This episode offers practical wisdom, experienced insights, and a refreshingly candid take on what it really means to lead in a PE-backed business. Tune in to explore:Why growth and profit aren’t mutually exclusive in private equity strategyThe real expectations around budgeting and how to balance ambition with achievabilityWhat kinds of mistakes are toleratedHow equity structures work, and why understanding “good leaver vs bad leaver” clauses is essentialWhether industry experience or private equity background matters more for CFO rolesHow values, trust, and transparency drive performance in today’s private equity landscapeLinks mentioned: Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!