CFO 4.0 - The Future of Finance
Hannah Munro
Welcome to CFO 4.0, where we explore the dynamic landscape of Financial Leadership in the era of Technology 4.0. I'm your host, Hannah Munro, Managing Director of itas, a pioneering Financial Transformation consultancy. In this podcast series, we unravel the intricate connection between cutting-edge technologies and the financial domain. It's more than just adopting tools; it's about cultivating the skills necessary to navigate and spearhead the transformative journey within Finance. CFO 4.0 embodies the archetype of the Financial Leader in the future — a fusion of strategic visionaries and tech-savvy innovators. As the CFO role swiftly evolves from a mere cost controller to a strategic influencer, each transition opens up novel possibilities. Tune in as we share valuable insights and guidance from inspirational CFOs and finance leaders every episode, empowering you to revolutionise your processes, people, and data. Seize the opportunities, propel your business and career forward, and lead with unwavering confidence. Join us in shaping the future of Finance — this is CFO 4.0, your guide to the Future of Finance. We’d love for you to join our community, and if you like what you hear (which I’m sure you will 😉) it would be great if you rate and share.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 2, 2023 • 1h 10min
126. Financial Transformation Live: Top Tips Before Starting Your Finance Systems Implementation Project
Send us your thoughtsThis episode of the CFO 4.0 podcast is taken from our recent Financial Transformation Live session! Host and Managing Director at itas, Hannah Munro, discusses the challenges and best practices for implementing new finance systems. Drawing from her extensive experience, Hannah offers valuable insights and guidance on how to effectively manage change in the finance department.Key takeaways:Understanding the change cycle: Pre-implementation activities to set up for success.Phases of a successful implementation project: How to avoid common pitfalls and optimise outcomes.Ensuring open communication: Encouraging constructive feedback and addressing concerns.Focusing on outcomes, not inputs: Aligning objectives with the desired end results.Avoiding scope creep: Being ruthless in prioritising and managing project phases.Building capacity for change: Allowing teams to recover and feel the benefits of change.Links mentioned:Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodesRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live sessionsRegister for June’s Financial Transformation Live sessionTake our ‘Which Sage Product is right for you?’ quiz Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Apr 25, 2023 • 54min
125. The ESG Revolution: Embracing Sustainability in Finance and Accounting with Ash Noah, CIMA & AICPA
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of the CFO 4.0 podcast, join our host Hannah Munro as she chats with Ash Noah, VP & Managing Director at CIMA & AICPA and an expert on the evolving world of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting. Together, they delve into the new competencies required by finance professionals, the role of CFOs, and the exciting opportunities that ESG presents for the accounting profession.In this episode, they cover:The increasing importance of ESG reporting and its impact on finance professionalsUnderstanding the new skills required to effectively manage ESG reporting and standardsThe role of CFOs in driving sustainable business practices and embracing ESG as a strategic priorityThe opportunity for the accounting profession to attract new talent and remain relevant in a rapidly changing worldThe significance of integrating ESG into business models and decision-making for long-term value creationAICPA and CIMA's initiatives to enable finance professionals to engage with ESG strategically and operationallyLinks mentioned in the episode:Ash's LinkedIn Find out more about ESG Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Apr 18, 2023 • 58min
124. Transforming Finance: People, Processes & Technology with Mark Laine Toner, FD at Evri
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of the CFO 4.0 podcast, join our host Hannah Munro as she engages in an insightful conversation with Mark Laine Toner, Finance Director at Evri who has extensive experience in driving successful finance transformation projects. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of finance transformation and learn how to navigate the challenges that come with it.In this episode, they cover:The importance of aligning team culture for successful transformationAdapting to the pace of business and balancing team expectationsEmbracing technology to keep finance relevant in today's rapidly changing environmentValuable tips on stakeholder management and the significance of setting realistic deadlinesThe importance of mentoring and coaching in financeThe need for finance professionals to stay updated on emerging technologies and toolsLinks mentioned in this episode:• Connect with Mark on LinkedIn• Learn more about Evri Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Apr 11, 2023 • 45min
123. Accelerating your impact as a CFO with coaching with Catherine Clark, Lead CFO Mentor at GrowCFO
Send us your thoughtsJoining Hannah Munro on the CFO 4.0 Podcast this week is Catherine Clark, Lead CFO Mentor at GrowCFO and Director of Cristallum Limited. With a wealth of experience behind her, Catherine shares her insights on the importance of mentoring, particularly for finance leaders, and how having that safe space to reflect and share can be extremely powerful. Also covered in this episode:The difference between mentoring and coaching What soft skills are needed when transitioning between different level finance roles? The key components of good communication within your finance teamWhy finance leaders need to be aware of the impact their team is having on the rest of the organisation Links mentioned in this episode:Connect with Catherine on LinkedInLearn more about CristallumGrowCFO Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Apr 4, 2023 • 40min
122. CFO Stories: Navigating the World of Private Equity – Insights from Seasoned CFO, Edward Knighton
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, we dive into the world of private equity through the lens of a seasoned CFO, Edward, who shares his experiences, challenges, and successes with Host, Hannah Munro. Join us as we discuss the nuances of working in private equity and explore essential tips for aspiring CFOs in this high-stakes industry.Topics covered in this episode include:Edward's journey into private equity and his key learningsBuilding relationships with private equity firms and management teamsManaging expectations and handling pressure in a private equity-backed businessThe importance of preparing for an exit from the moment you join a businessTop tips on how to negotiate your own position in a private equity dealStanding your ground on growth forecasts and managing risksRecommendations for aspiring CFOs looking to break into the private equity worldLinks referenced in this episodeEdward's Linkedin Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Mar 28, 2023 • 59min
121. The positive impact of applying for finance and business awards, live panel event with Hannah Munro & ACCA
Send us your thoughtsWelcome to a special edition of the CFO 4.0 podcast, brought to you in partnership with the ACCA. In this live panel event, host Hannah Munro is joined by an expert panel of ACCA members, including Hannah Williams, Becky Glover, Andi Lonnen, and Jess Harcourt. Together, they share their insights and experiences on how finance and business awards can propel your business and personal brand to new heights. In this engaging and informative discussion, our panellists delve into the following topics:Discover the key elements that make an award-winning application and learn how to showcase your achievements effectivelyFinance and business awards to look out forTop tips for preparing for the awardsThe impact of winning awards on your business and personal profileHow to get involved in the judging side of awardsLinks mentioned:Digital Finance Function awardsCelebrating Members Success HubFind out more about the ACCA Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Mar 21, 2023 • 44min
120. Financial Transformation Live: How to Map Out Your Finance Integration Project
Send us your thoughtsThis week’s episode of the CFO 4.0 podcast is part of our monthly Financial Transformation Live series, how to map out your finance integration project! Part two of our integration series, Hannah Munro covers what options for integration you have, and shares her top tips for building out an integration strategy paired with some helpful examples!Also covered in this session:Key areas to focus on before building out your integration strategyWhy it’s important to plan out your data dependencies Hannah’s top tips for building out an integration strategyBest practice for approaching field mapping Integration things to think about when looking for new finance softwareLinks mentioned:Part One: Integrating your Finance systemsUpcoming Financial Transformation Live in AprilLearn more & subscribe to FTL alertsJoin our Financial Transformation Live Community LinkedIn GroupOn-demand webinar: Automate your finance team with Sage Intacct Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Mar 14, 2023 • 46min
119. CFO Stories: Finance’s hierarchy of needs with Darren Woods, CFO of Freedom Fibre
Send us your thoughtsBack due to popular demand, Darren Woods, CFO at Freedom Fibre sits down with Hannah Munro to discuss useful tips and advice for both brand new and new into role CFOs! Together they discuss the influence you have as a CFO that is new into role, how soon is too soon to start that financial transformation journey and how to prioritise your transformation efforts. Also covered on this episode:Darren’s ambition for finance What is finance’s hierarchy of needs?Why you need to understand the problem you are trying to solve before you try to solve it?How do you speed up your time to value as a CFO?Why you need to know the 3 things that keep your CEO awake at nightLinks referenced in this episode Freedom Fibre websiteFreedom Fibre LinkedInDarren’s LinkedIn Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Mar 7, 2023 • 60min
118. Handling conflict and friction effectively in finance with Dr. Jon Gruda
Send us your thoughtsReturning to the CFO 4.0 podcast this week with Hannah Munro is Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour at Maynooth University, Dr. Jon Gruda! Jon and Hannah dig into the concept of conflict, discussing how to best navigate specific scenarios within finance teams, particularly during change. Also covered in this episode:What is conflict within an organisation? How do you approach a disagreement between team membersWhat are the key components of good decision-making?Tips for structuring the way you deal with conflict Links referenced in this episode:Jon Gruda’s websiteJon Gruda’s university profile pageJon’s LinkedInSubscribe to CFO 4.0 Podcast Alerts Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Feb 28, 2023 • 48min
117. CFO Stories: Integration, automation and finding your niche with Cécile Parker, Group CFO at Vital Energi Utilities
Send us your thoughtsIn this week’s episode of the CFO 4.0 podcast, Cécile Parker, Group CFO at Vital Energi Utilities Limited, sat down with Hannah Munro to share her story and talk about everything from finance’s carbon footprint through to integrating your finance team with the rest of the business. Also covered in this episode • Why finance need to stop underestimating the power of automation • Finding your niche as a CFO • The importance of integrating your finance team with the rest of the business • How to develop the skills and knowledge within your finance team Links mentioned in this episode.Cécile’s LinkedInLearn more about Vital Energi Vital Energi on LinkedIn Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
