

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 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!

Feb 20, 2024 • 44min
165. PE Backed | Insider Information on the Recruitment of CFOs in Private Equity with Jamie Irwin
Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro and Jamie Irwin, Partner and Head of UK CFO Practice at Finatal, in an enlightening episode of CFO 4.0 that delves into the dynamic world of CFO recruitment in private equity. This episode sheds light on the unique challenges, opportunities, and career trajectories for CFOs navigating the private equity landscape. Key highlights include:Explore the intricate relationship between CFOs and Private Equity, including majority vs minority deals and the impact on CFO role recruitment.Dive into how CFO roles differ in Private Equity environments, from transformational tasks to exit-focused responsibilities.Discover the essential skills and personal traits that define successful CFOs in the Private Equity sector.Uncover insights into the recruitment process for CFOs in Private Equity.Get an overview of the latest salary trends and equity structures for UK CFOs in Private EquityGain valuable advice for professionals aspiring to step into CFO roles within Private Equity.Links mentioned in this episode: Jamie Irwin's LinkedIn Learn more about FinatalCFO Remuneration, Equity and Outlook Report 2023 | Finatal Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Feb 13, 2024 • 47min
164. Leadership Evolution: Transforming from CFO to CEO with Hannah Williams
Send us your thoughtsJoin host Hannah Munro in this enlightening episode of CFO 4.0 podcast, featuring returning guest Hannah Williams, CEO of Alacrity Foundation. Dive into a detailed exploration of the transition from a CFO to a CEO role, along with insights into effective team communication, board meeting management, and much more.Key Points Covered:Team Communication: Highlighting the importance of aligning team efforts with organisational goals.In-depth discussion on managing board meetings efficiently.The importance of giving and receiving feedback for continuous personal and organisational growth.The role of mentorship in leadership development and the power of leveraging networks for organisational growth.Colour Profiling in Professional CommunicationLinks mentioned in this episode Hannah William's LinkedIn Learn more about AlacrityAlacrity on InstagramListen to Alacrity’s Podcast ‘By Founders For Founders’Hannah’s Book Recommendation: Surrounded By Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behaviour by Thomas EriksonTake the True Colours Personality Test Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Feb 6, 2024 • 30min
163. Sneak Peek! Choosing the Right Sage Software: A Comprehensive Guide to Consolidation Tools with the itas Consultant Team
Send us your thoughtsThis week's episode of CFO 4.0 we have a slight change to the usual format. We are excited to give you a sneak peak of our brand new podcast that is coming soon. Join Hannah Munro and itas’ Pre-sales consultant Paul Newton in this insightful first episode of 'itas Talks Sage Software' where we discuss the world of Sage Financial Software. In this pilot episode we dive into how Sage 50, Sage 200 and Sage Intacct handle financial consolidation, and which is the best choice for your business.We'd love for you to tune in and to give your feedback. In this episode, we cover:Understand the basic consolidation functionalities across Sage 50, Sage 200, and Sage Intacct.Learn about the consolidation process in Sage 50, including its limitations and unique features.Dive into the enhanced capabilities of Sage 200, particularly its departmental consolidation and flexibility.Discover the advanced consolidation options in Sage Intacct, including its ability to handle multiple currencies and drill-down reporting features.Contrast the three Sage products in terms of ease of use, functionality, and suitability for different organisational needs.Gain valuable insights from Paul's extensive experience with Sage software to guide your decision-making process.Links mentioned: Hannah’s LinkedInPaul’s LinkedInLearn more about itas SolutionsBe the first to hear about ‘itas talks Sage software’ here Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Jan 30, 2024 • 45min
162. Financial Transformation Live: Ensuring your system passes audit
Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro in this insightful episode of The Financial Transformation Live series.This episode is a comprehensive guide for finance professionals navigating the complexities of system audits and employing technology for efficient financial management.Key Points Covered:Discussion on ensuring system security, privacy, and user access controlsThe need for documenting financial processes, checklists, and standard operating procedures The shift towards digital approvals and controls in transaction processingInsights into the importance of controlling report design and ensuring the accuracy and consistency of financial reports.Strategies for monitoring changes in financial transactions.Encouraging a shift to digital auditsLinks mentioned:January FTL: Ensuring your system passes AuditRevisit previous Financial Transformation Live sessions Register for February's Financial Transformation Live sessionRequest a Requirement TemplateReserve 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!

Jan 23, 2024 • 48min
161. Navigating 2024: Agility, AI, and People-Centric Finance with Chris Ortega
Chris Ortega, CEO at Fresh FP&A, discusses the transition from tactical to strategic roles in finance, the impact of AI on finance, the shift towards a more people-centric approach, the transition from traditional budgeting to rolling forecasts, and adopting new technologies to streamline operations and attract better talent.

Jan 16, 2024 • 41min
160. Transforming Numbers into Stories: The Power of Financial Communication with Soufyan Hamid
Send us your thoughtsJoin Hannah Munro and guest Soufyan Hamid, Financial Storytelling Trainer at The Finance Circle, for an enlightening discussion on the transformative power of storytelling in finance. This episode explores how finance professionals can effectively communicate complex data through compelling narratives. Key points covered include:The Journey to Storytelling: Soufyan shares his transition from a technical auditor role to mastering storytelling in finance.Strategies for tailoring financial presentations to different audiences.Understanding the SCQA technique (Situation, Complication, Question, Answer) for engaging financial presentations.Tips on finding the right balance between crucial financial data and engaging storytelling.How to effectively communicate challenging financial updates in a business environment.The importance of CFOs in cascading financial storytelling skills throughout their teams.Links mentioned: Soufyan’s Linkedin Find out more about The Finance Circle Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Jan 9, 2024 • 41min
159. A Leadership Journey at Purplebricks – Insights into Cash Burn, Resilience, and Transformational Triumphs with Dominique Highfield
Send us your thoughtsIn this episode of the CFO 4.0 podcast join Hannah Munro, in an engaging conversation with Dominique Highfield, Chief Operating Officer of Purplebricks, as they delve into the dynamics of financial and operational leadership. In this episode, we explore:Insights into managing cash burn and transformational challenges at Purplebricks.Strategies for leading effectively during times of corporate and personal challenges.How to foster team resilience and support during restructuring and redundancies.Navigating corporate environments in both private and public sectors.The importance of vulnerability and emotional expression in corporate leadership roles.Advice for New C-Level Executives: Practical tips for those stepping into high-level roles.Links mentioned: Dominique’s LinkedIn Learn more about Purplebricks Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Jan 2, 2024 • 41min
158. The Road to IPO: A Bitcoin Depot Story with Scott Buchanan
Send us your thoughtsIn this new episode of the CFO 4.0 podcast join Hannah Munro as she interviews Scott Buchanan, the COO of Bitcoin Depot, about their journey to becoming a publicly listed company. This episode delves into the intricacies and challenges of taking a company through the IPO process, especially in the dynamic field of cryptocurrency. Key points covered include:Understanding the company's role as an operator of Bitcoin ATMs and its foundational history.The insights into why Bitcoin Depot chose the IPO route and the specific path they took.Discussing the changes in financial reporting and internal controls necessary for the transition from private to public.Scott’s experiences with the SEC's regulations, particularly for a cryptocurrency companyThe challenges and strategies in transitioning the team for public company requirementsKey insights and tips for businesses contemplating a similar pathLinks mentioned: Scott’s Linkedin Learn more about Bitcoin Depot Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

Dec 19, 2023 • 41min
157. Fulfilling Dreams: The role of Finance at Make-A-Wish with Sarah Watson
Send us your thoughtsIn this enlightening episode, join Hannah Munro in a heart-warming conversation with returning guest Sarah Watson, Director of Finance & Technology at Make-A-Wish® UK.Explore the fascinating world where finance meets philanthropy as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of granting wishes for children facing adversity. Here are some highlights from the episode:The evolving role of finance in charitable organisations.The impact of digital transformation and real-time reporting on decision-making.The exciting journey of integrating cryptocurrency donations into the non-profit sector.The importance of business partnering and enabling department managers to make informed decisions.Sarah's insights into the Make-A-Wish Foundation's mission and challenges.How you can make a difference by supporting the Make-A-Wish Foundation.Links mentioned within this episode:Sarah’s LinkedInLearn more about Make-A-Wish Leo’s StoryGet Involved with Make-A-Wish Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!