

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 7, 2024 • 47min
175. From Local to Global: Mastering US GAAP for International Success with Katrina Nacci
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!

Apr 30, 2024 • 56min
174. Financial Transformation Live: The New Normal in Finance- Future-Proofing your Finance Team
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.

Apr 23, 2024 • 54min
173. Navigating Sustainability in M&A: Insights from ACCA's Clive Webb
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!

Apr 16, 2024 • 43min
172. Global Expansion Tactics: Finance Strategies for Success with Marie Charpentier
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!

Apr 9, 2024 • 43min
171. Beyond Numbers: Cultivating a Business-Focused Finance Mindset with Andy Burrows
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.

Mar 27, 2024 • 41min
170. Financial Transformation Live: Maximising Efficiency - Achieving More with Less
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!

Mar 19, 2024 • 40min
169. Balancing Acts: Performance Management in Finance with Christian Frantz Hansen
Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro on this insightful episode of CFO 4.0, featuring Christian Frantz Hansen from the Business Partnering Institute. Explore the intricate balance between quantitative and qualitative measures in performance management. This episode sheds light on how finance teams can drive value and navigate the complexities of modern business landscapes. In this episode, we cover:The Business Partnering Institute's holistic view on performance management in finance.The significance of supporting the business through collaborative efforts across functions.Insights into effective benchmarks, the importance of qualitative measures, and innovative tools.The critical role of people in driving change, emphasizing the need for a culture that supports learning, development, and adaptation to new technologies.Practical advice on managing change within finance teams, including the importance of humour, connection, and the SCARF model to overcome resistance and foster trust.Links mentioned in this episode: Christian’s LinkedinLearn more about the Business Partnering Institute Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Mar 12, 2024 • 42min
168. PE Backed | The Evolution of a Finance Leader: Journey Through Audit, IPO, Acquisitions to Private Equity with Tory Bauman
Send us your thoughtsJoin us in this enlightening episode of CFO 4.0 as Hannah Munro sits down with Tory Bauman, Vice President, FP&A at Zayo Group, to discuss the intricacies of financial planning and analysis in the fast-paced world of telecommunications infrastructure. Tory shares her remarkable journey from public accounting to a pivotal role in a major global company, offering unique insights into the challenges and opportunities of financial transformation.In this episode, we cover:Tory's transition from auditing to leading FP&A, and her first-hand experiences with the company's evolution from public to private equity.The critical role of communication with auditors and the significance of understanding business operations from both sides of the financial fence.The importance of asset integration, and the shift towards cultural fit in recent acquisitions.Practical advice for finance professionals on career progressionThe emerging trend of boomerang employees and considerations for those contemplating a return to a previous employer.Links mentioned in this episode: Tory’s LinkedinLearn more about Zayo Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Mar 5, 2024 • 37min
167. AI's Role in the Future of Finance with Nicolas Boucher
Explore how AI is transforming the finance sector with Nicolas Boucher. From chatbots to generative AI, AI's impact on business growth, the importance of finance teams learning AI tools, to future-proofing finance with AI partnerships.

Feb 28, 2024 • 44min
166. Financial Transformation Live: Navigating the Budgeting Process for Transformation Success
Send us your thoughtsIn this month's FTL episode on CFO 4.0, hosted by Hannah Munro, we delve into the intricacies of budgeting in the modern finance landscape. Focusing on shifting towards a more agile budgeting approach, Hannah shares invaluable insights and strategies to help finance professionals navigate the complexities of financial planning and transformation. Join us as we explore:Introduction to Agile Budgeting: Understanding the need for flexibility in financial planning.Different Budgeting Approaches: A deep dive into incremental, zero-based, and scenario-based budgeting.Top-Down vs Bottom-Up Budgeting: Analyzing the pros and cons of each approach.Strategies for aligning budget projections with current business run rates to minimise the need for frequent rebudgeting.Discussing the journey from basic to leading-edge planning capabilities.The importance of involving department heads and teams in the budgeting process for better alignment and accountability. How to evaluate the effectiveness of your budgeting process and the value it adds to the organisation.Links mentioned:February FTL: Navigating the Budgeting Process for Transformation SuccessRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live sessions Register for March'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!