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
Feb 25, 2025 • 46min
215. PE Backed: Mastering Investor Relations & Private Equity with Phil Moses
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro sits down with Phil Moses, CFO at Octavius, to discuss his fascinating career journey from working in PLCs to Private Equity-backed businesses. With experience spanning insurance, telecoms, infrastructure, and construction, Phil shares his lessons on managing investors, driving financial strategy, and adapting to different ownership models.Key topics covered in this episode:How Phil approached investor engagement and messaging in the PLC world, including handling difficult conversations.Key differences in reporting, decision-making speed, and working with multiple investors.Challenges of goal alignment, board dynamics, and the role of a strong chairperson in creating consensus.The importance of transparency, relationship-building, and setting realistic yet ambitious targets.How PE expectations differ from the public market approach.Links mentioned:Phil's Linkedin Learn more about Octavius Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Feb 18, 2025 • 56min
214. The Private Equity CFO: Unlocking Value & Managing Risk in PE Transactions with Richard Sanders
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro welcomes back Private Equity expert Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner of Sullivan Street Partners, for the next episode of The Private Equity CFO. Together, they break down the key considerations for businesses looking to secure Private Equity investment, the challenges of the process, and how CFOs can prepare to maximize returns.Key topics covered include:Is Private Equity the right option for your business?What makes a business ‘mature’ enough for Private Equity?Red flags that Private Equity investors watch out forFinding the right private equity house and corporate finance advisor:The Private Equity investment process: What to expectThe CFO’s role in Private Equity investment Links mentioned:Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Feb 11, 2025 • 53min
213. CFO Stories: Navigating Deep Tech & Venture Capital with Stuart Mellis
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro speaks with Stuart Mellis, CFO of Optalysis, about his journey to CFO, the challenges of scaling deep tech startups, and navigating fundraising, investor relations, and financial planning in an emerging market.Key topics covered:Private equity vs venture capital – key differences in expectations and investment approachesManaging investor relationships – balancing trust, communication, and transparencyFundraising in deep tech – navigating challenges and pitching to the right investorsFinancial planning & budgeting – setting realistic growth targets in an emerging marketAdvice for new CFOs – the importance of coaching, board management, and asking the right questionsLinks mentioned:Stuart's Linkedin Learn more about Optalysis Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Feb 4, 2025 • 52min
212. Mastering M&A: The Art of Being Acquired with Jeremy Earnshaw
Send us your thoughtsIn this third instalment of the Mastering M&A series, Hannah Munro is joined by Jeremy Earnshaw, Founding Director of Clarendon and experienced CFO, to delve into the complexities of business disposals. Key topics discussed:The difference between being sought out by a buyer vs proactively seeking a sale.Essential preparations for making your business attractive to potential acquirersThe critical role of the CFO in managing the disposal process and overseeing data flow.The importance of establishing good buyer relationships Deal structures: earn-outs, share exchanges, and the implications for sellers.Warranties, indemnities, and legal considerations The cultural and operational implications of a sale for the management team and employees. Links mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Jan 28, 2025 • 50min
211. CFO Stories: CFO to NED: Insights on Strategic Growth and Leadership with Alwyn Jones
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Alwyn Jones, Group CFO at Luno and returning guest on the podcast. Alwyn shares his journey of broadening his perspective by stepping into a Non-Executive Director (NED) role and reflects on how it has shaped his leadership approach. This engaging conversation covers a range of topics, including:The evolving responsibilities of CFOsKey insights into the dynamics of a Non-Exec role,The challenges and surprises of stepping into a Non-Exec roleAdvice for aspiring NEDs, including tips on networking.Reflections on how the NED role has enriched his perspective and improved his effectiveness as a CFO.Links mentioned in this podcast:Connect with Alwyn Jones on LinkedInLearn more about Luno Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Jan 21, 2025 • 46min
210. The Private Equity CFO: Delivering a successful first 100 days as CFO with Richard Sanders
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro is joined by Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner of Sullivan Street Partners, for the second instalment in our The Private Equity CFO series. Together, they delve into the complexities of private equity and its implications for CFOs.Key topics covered include:Exploring the balance between capability and comfort zone, and what CFOs can do to prove their value.How private equity-backed businesses differ in their expectations for timely, actionable financial data.Insights into cash flow management, covenant models, and other critical reporting differences.From diagnosing the state of the business to building trust with private equity partners, strategies for success in the first 100 days.Building trust, communicating effectively, and staying aligned with the investment strategy.Tactics for transparency, preparedness, and maintaining credibility under pressure. Links mentioned:Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Jan 14, 2025 • 41min
209. CFO Stories: From Investment Banking to Start Up CFO with Danyaal Shah
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro sits down with Danyaal Shah, CFO of Nokkel, to explore his unique journey from investment banking to becoming a strategic financial leader. Danyaal shares valuable insights into the evolving role of CFOs, offering actionable advice for those aiming to excel in financial leadership. Topics covered include:How his background in investment banking and M&A shaped his approach to the CFO role.Key steps to ensure your business is investor-readyHow to balance growth and profitability while keeping CAC under control.Why realistic scenarios and investor-friendly cash flow forecasts are essential for success.Insights into managing debt and aligning financial strategy with cash flow stability.Practical tips for those transitioning into the CFO role from non-traditional backgrounds.Links mentioned:Danyaal's LinkedinLearn more about Nokkel Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Jan 7, 2025 • 48min
208. Mastering M&A: Preparing for a Business Sale with Jeremy Earnshaw
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro welcomes back Jeremy Earnshaw, Founding Director of Clarendon, for the second instalment of the Mastering M&A series. Jeremy, a seasoned CFO coach and mentor, shares invaluable insights into structuring deals and preparing for a successful merger or acquisition. Join us as we explore:The key steps in structuring a deal, including understanding objectives, optimal exit strategies, and assessing readiness.The critical role of the CFO in managing the M&A process, from internal due diligence to project management.How to evaluate business value and address tax implications for potential buyers.Strategies to navigate due diligence, protect sensitive information, and negotiate effectively.The importance of preparing the organisation, including staff retention, contract management, and intellectual property.Top tips for CFOs to assess their readiness to sell and ensure a smooth transaction process. Links mentioned:Jeremy's LinkedinLearn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Dec 31, 2024 • 48min
207. CFO Stories: SaaS Success & Leadership Lessons with Mark Blakemore
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro speaks with Mark Blakemore, CFO at Compleat Software, about the unique challenges and opportunities of working in SaaS finance. Mark shares valuable insights from his 30+ year career in finance, offering a detailed look into the world of SaaS, including practical advice for CFOs and finance professionals aspiring to break into the sector.Key topics covered in this episode:Mark's journey to becoming a CFO and his transition from audit to SaaS finance.The evolution of SaaS models and the challenges of shifting from perpetual licences to recurring revenue.Key metrics for SaaS CFOs, including MQL-to-win ratios, CAC, and revenue growth levers.The importance of cross-functional collaboration with sales, marketing, and engineering teams.Lessons learned from managing cultural differences and communication challenges in international teams.Links mentioned:Mark's LinkedinLearn more about Compleat Software Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
Dec 17, 2024 • 42min
206. The Private Equity CFO | Private Equity 101: Structures, Strategies, and CFO Expectations
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro kicks off The World of CFOs in Private Equity series by exploring the fascinating world of PE with Richard Sanders, Founder and Managing Partner of Sullivan Street Partners.Dive into the dynamics of private equity and learn what it takes to succeed as a CFO in this unique investment environment.Key discussion points include:An overview of private equityThe internal structures of private equity firmsHow CFOs can understand the type of private equity backing their organisationThe concept of leveraged buyouts, including how debt is used to maximise returnsThe varying levels of private equity involvement in businessesKey strategies for value creation.Essential skills and expectations for private equity CFOs Links mentioned:Richard's LinkedinLearn more about Sullivan Street Partners Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!
