CFO 4.0 - The Future of Finance

Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro as she interviews Chris Lloyd-Mostyn, Senior Business Partner, on his extensive experience driving financial transformation at BT Group. In this episode of CFO 4.0, Chris shares detailed insights into the complexities and strategic decisions involved in managing one of Europe's largest finance transformation projects. Key topics covered include:Understanding the initial state of BT's finance systems and the decision to undergo transformation.How the project was scoped, planned, and the strategic pivot to cloud computing mid-way through.The intense focus required to manage data from decades-old systems during the transition.Building a robust business case, revising it in response to evolving circumstancesStrategies for reducing operational risks and ensuring continuous compliance during the transformation.Links mentioned:Chris' LinkedinWorld Finance Forum London 2024 Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of Financial Transformation Live, Hannah Munro discusses the Process Improvement Maturity Scale. This session focuses on helping you understand and evaluate the maturity of your organisation's process development. Hannah takes you through various aspects of process improvement, offering insights and practical advice.Key topics covered:Overview of the Process Improvement Maturity Scale.Assessing process knowledge and measuring performance with KPIs.Defining process ownership and leveraging technology for digitisation and automation.Stages of process optimisation and continuous improvement.Importance of thorough and consistent process documentation.Indicators of process effectiveness and aligning with organisational goals.Links mentioned:May FTL: Navigating Process Improvement on the Maturity ScaleRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live  sessions Register for June's Financial Transformation Live sessionCFO 4.0 Monthly BriefingFinancial Transformation Live Feedback survey Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro in this episode of CFO 4.0 as she delves into the power of data science with Howard Friedman and Akshay Swaminathan, authors of "Winning with Data Science." This episode is packed with expert insights on how CFOs and finance leaders can leverage data to make smarter decisions and drive their organisations forward. In this episode:Learn the essentials of data science and how it can influence decision-making processes in business.Howard and Akshay share their diverse experiences and paths to becoming data science experts.Techniques and tools that can enhance accuracy in forecasting future business needs.Discussing the practical application of AI and machine learning in business settings and their real-world efficacy.How to handle and interpret data correctly, avoiding common pitfalls like biases and misinterpretation.Strategies for integrating data science into business operations to improve outcomes and efficiency.Concrete advice for CFOs on implementing robust data-driven strategies within their organisations.Links mentioned:Howard's Linkedin Akshay's Linkedin Learn more about Howard's workLearn more about Akshay's workHoward & Akshay's book "Winning with Data Science."  Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsJoin us in this episode of CFO 4.0 as Hannah Munro discusses with Ajit Kumar, VP of Finance at Signal AI, the intricate process of leading through major organisational changes, focusing on acquisitions and international expansion. Jump deep into the complexities of merging different cultures and systems, and the critical role of finance leadership in driving successful integration.In this episode, you'll discover:How Ajit’s international experiences shaped his professional outlook.Strategies for blending corporate cultures across borders and the significance of understanding local nuances.The importance of building a project management mindset within finance teamsEffective tactics for managing people through changes, including dealing with resistance Insights into leveraging technology for better data management and process efficiencyHow artificial intelligence can revolutionise data handling in finance, giving leaders more time to focus on strategic initiatives.Links mentioned:Ajit's LinkedinLearn more about Signal AI Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro as she dives into the complexities of US GAAP with cross-border accounting expert Katrina Nacci. This episode navigates the intricate world of international finance and expansion into the US markets. Here’s what we cover:Discover Katrina's journey from PwC in Boston to becoming a cross-border accounting adviser in Frankfurt.Insights into the major hurdles companies face when expanding into the USA detailed look at converting from UK or European GAAP to US GAAPUnderstanding the additional layers of compliance that come with US GAAP and how to prepare for US audits.Strategies for finance teams to manage US GAAP conversions effectivelyAdvice on preparing for funding rounds or acquisitions by US entities, emphasizing the strategic advantage of understanding US GAAP ahead of time.Links mentioned:Katrina’s LinkedinLearn more about Katrina's workFree Notion Guide for European CFOs on US Accounting & Reporting Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Exploring post-COVID financial transformations, rapid tech adoption in AI and cloud computing. AI integration for predictive analytics, evolving finance roles towards strategic responsibilities. Focus on developing new skills within finance teams for the future.

Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro and guest Clive Webb, Head of Business Management at the ACCA, as they delve into the pivotal role of sustainability in Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A). This episode provides critical insights into how sustainability considerations are influencing the financial landscape, particularly in M&A and investment strategies. In this episode, you will learn about:Understanding its role in altering business strategies and investment decisions in the context of M&A and Private Equity.The various challenges businesses face regarding sustainability in operational and transactional contexts.A deep dive into how sustainability is reshaping due diligence and compliance processes.Clive offers practical guidance for CFOs on preparing for and integrating sustainability into their operations and strategic planning.Insights into future trends in sustainability within the financial sector Links mentioned:Clive’s LinkedinLearn more about ACCASustainability in transactions report  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 engages in an insightful discussion with Marie Charpentier, SVP Finance & People Operations at InfoSum, on the dynamic challenges and strategies involved in transforming finance teams within high-growth companies and navigating international expansion. The episode covers:Importance of small, incremental changes vs. overwhelming projectsEvaluation and improvement of existing processes for scalabilityRethinking funding approaches in challenging marketsFinancial costs and success metrics for global expansionGlobal expansion and digital transformation strategiesLinks mentioned:Marie’s LinkedinLearn more about InfoSum Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Join Hannah Munro as she chats with Andy Burrows, CEO of Supercharged Finance. They discuss developing a business-focused finance mindset, bridging skills gaps in finance teams, and cultivating business acumen. They explore the Value Driver Tree model, strategies for enhancing business acumen in teams, and embedding finance within organizations.

Send us your thoughtsIn this month's FTL session on CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro dives deep into the concept of maximising efficiency within finance teams, particularly focusing on how to achieve more with less. Amidst a challenging economic environment, finance professionals are increasingly required to enhance productivity without significant increases in resources. Key highlights include:An overview of the critical need for finance teams to enhance efficiency and productivity.The importance of evaluating and optimising meeting schedules.A focus on time management methods to boost individual productivity and ensure effective breaks.The significance of assessing and developing the skills and competencies within finance teams to drive efficiency.Conducting Excel audits to reduce reliance on manual spreadsheet management.Conducting system audits to identify opportunities for further efficiency gains.Links mentioned:March FTL: Navigating the Budgeting Process for Transformation SuccessRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live sessions Register for April's Financial Transformation Live sessionReserve a free one hour review session with Hannah Munro!CFO 4.0 Monthly BriefingFinancial Transformation Live Feedback survey Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!