In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, we dive into the evolving landscape of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) with a focus on finance transformation. Leslie Stuart, a seasoned expert in FP&A and finance transformation, shares her insights on how modern finance functions are adapting to new technologies, data management practices, and process improvements to drive better business outcomes.Leslie Stuart is the Director of Financial Planning & Analysis at Walmart Canada and a certified CPA. With a robust background in accounting, auditing, and operational finance, Leslie has been at the forefront of finance transformation, leading initiatives that integrate cutting-edge technology with traditional finance functions. Her career journey from external audit to leading finance transformations offers valuable lessons for anyone involved in or aspiring to drive financial excellence.Expect to Learn:The importance of data quality and its impact on business decisions.Strategies for successfully managing finance transformation projects.How to navigate challenges in data management, from garbage data to valuable insights.The role of technology, including AI, in modernizing FP&A processes.Tips for engaging teams and fostering change in finance departments.Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "Data and technology are often the easier pieces; the real challenge is with people and processes." - Leslie Stuart"Starting with a strong foundation in processes and controls is critical to any successful transformation." - Leslie Stuart"AI and machine learning are the way of the future for finance—helping us work more efficiently and effectively." - Leslie StuartIn this insightful episode, Leslie Stuart takes us through the intricate process of finance transformation, emphasizing the importance of data quality, the role of technology, and the critical need for effective communication and process management. Her practical advice and personal experiences offer a roadmap for those looking to navigate the complexities of modern FP&A.Follow Leslie:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-stuart/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis Certificate Program:Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling: https://bit.ly/4debs46 Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 to save $300. Earn Your CPE Credit For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In Today’s Episode[01:31] - Introduction to the episode [02:17] - Leslie’s career journey and background[02:46] - Discussion about evolution of FP&A[08:07] - Leslie explains her transition from audit to FP&A[12:35] - Managing large-scale finance transformations[20:18] - Project management approaches in finance transformations[31:14] - The Role of AI in FP&A[37:06] - Continuous evolution in finance[49:13] - Final thoughts and conclusion

Dr. Liran Edelist, a finance and technology veteran with over 30 years of experience, dives into the cutting-edge evolution of Financial Planning and Analysis. He discusses the crucial shift from outdated methods like Excel to modern, AI-driven tools. Liran emphasizes the need for a balanced approach between technology, people, and processes. He shares insights on how AI can enhance FP&A roles, the importance of effective data integration, and the value of storytelling in building business partnerships. A must-listen for forward-thinking finance professionals!

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka "The FP&A Guy," dives into the intricacies of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with Renato Villanueva, CEO of Parallel, a startup  FP&A tool for early-stage founders. They discuss what makes great FP&A, the journey from risk management to FP&A, and the challenges of scaling a startup while maintaining financial discipline.Renato Villanueva is an accomplished finance professional and the CEO of Parallel, a company providing innovative financial modeling and forecasting solutions for startups. With a finance degree from Utah Valley University, Renato's experience spans multiple high-profile companies, including Qualtrics, American Express, and Divvy. His deep understanding of FP&A and his entrepreneurial spirit drive the conversation as he shares valuable insights from his career and current ventures.Expect to Learn:The essential characteristics of effective FP&A and why understanding your company's goals is crucial.How persistence and networking can open doors in your career, as demonstrated by Renato's journey into Divvy.The importance of aligning financial planning with company growth strategies, especially in a startup environment.Key operational metrics to focus on during the early stages of a startup.Strategies for building strong relationships between finance and other business departments to drive success.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode “Great FP&A is about understanding what the company is trying to accomplish and the role your leader plays in that. It's knowing the North Star metric and ensuring your department has the resources to achieve it." - Renato Villanueva"You want to make it as easy as possible for whoever you work with. Sometimes that means meeting people where they’re at rather than forcing them into a new process." - Renato Villanueva"The most rewarding part is tackling a really hard problem and empowering founders to make better, bigger bets with confidence." - Renato VillanuevaRenato's journey from risk management to becoming the CEO of Parallel offers valuable lessons in persistence, adaptability, and the power of understanding the big picture. Tune in for expert insights as we continue to explore the evolving landscape of FP&A.Follow Renato:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/villanuevar/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis Certificate Program:Level up your career and build skills for financial planning and analysis. Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling: https://bit.ly/4debs46 Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 to save $300. Earn Your CPE Credit For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In Today’s Episode[01:32] - Introduction to the topic and guest Renato Villanueva[02:35] - Renato shares his views on what constitutes great FP&A.[03:29] - Discussion of Renato's career journey[05:46] - Renato explains how persistence and networking led to his role at Divvy[14:12] - A look at the key metrics Renato focused on while scaling Divvy[24:05] - The evolution of the budgeting and forecasting process at Divvy[26:19] - Tips on how finance professionals can build strong relationships with other departments[33:10] - Renato shares insights into his current venture, Parallel, and the rewarding experience of building a company from the ground up.[39:24] - Renato answers quick questions about key FP&A skills[48:17] - Final thoughts and how to connect with Renato

Zach Rial, Senior Director of Finance and Strategy at Peak, delves into the evolving landscape of FP&A, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and operations in finance roles. He introduces the concept of a 'finance athlete', highlighting the need for versatility and adaptability in today’s dynamic environment. Zach shares insights on fostering intellectual curiosity and effective communication, along with personal anecdotes from his journey in finance. The discussion also touches on the strategic role CFOs play in driving organizational success.

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst dives into the world of growth equity investing with Ryan Sanders, a seasoned investor from Mercato Partners. The conversation explores the critical role of FP&A (Financial Planning and Analysis) in supporting growth-stage companies, the nuances of growth equity investing, and how entrepreneurs can best position themselves for success. Ryan shares insights from his extensive experience, offering valuable lessons on what it takes to scale companies in today's competitive market.Ryan Sanders is a growth investor at Mercato Partners, a growth equity firm based in Salt Lake City, Utah. With a background in finance and an MBA in entrepreneurship from the University of Texas, Ryan has a deep understanding of what it takes to support and scale innovative companies. His career spans various roles in investment, and he is known for his strategic approach to partnering with entrepreneurs. Ryan also recently completed the Kauffman Fellows program, which has further enriched his expertise in venture capital and growth investing.Expect to Learn:The key attributes and skills that FP&A professionals need to excel in supporting growth-stage companies.The importance of customer-centric growth and why organic growth strategies often outperform inorganic ones.Insights into the investment process at Mercato Partners and how they identify and support promising companies.The role of AI in transforming FP&A functions and the broader finance industry.Practical advice for entrepreneurs on when and how to raise capital effectively.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode “For the CEO and for the board and for the investors, the FP&A is most often a partner, demonstrated through accuracy and speed. But perhaps as important are curiosity, comparison, and completeness.” - Ryan Sanders“The number one skill, in my opinion, for someone in FP&A has to be effective communication. We’re all in sales.” - Ryan Sanders“We’re in the age of AI, and I think AI eats the lunch of vertical functions. If finance believes their only value is debits and credits, I believe that will be obviated over time.” - Ryan Sanders“For me, I wanted three things from the Kauffman Fellows program: to be an active learner, to expand my network, and to learn how to become a better support for a CEO.” - Ryan Sanders“One of the most interesting exercises is to think about the business through a series or a set of stop lights. Red light, yellow light, green light—that accumulation of answers should drive the decision on the type of financing.” - Ryan SandersIn this insightful episode, Ryan Sanders shared invaluable lessons on growth equity investing and the critical role of FP&A in supporting successful business scaling. From the importance of curiosity, comparison, and completeness in FP&A to the strategic decision-making processes that drive value in growth-stage companies, Ryan’s expertise offers a roadmap for professionals and entrepreneurs alike. Whether you're an FP&A professional, an entrepreneur, or an investor, Ryan's experiences and advice provide actionable takeaways that can help you navigate the complexities of business growth.World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3Follow Ryan:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandersryan23/ Website - https://www.mercatopartners.com/Kauffman Fellows Program - https://www.kauffmanfellows.org/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyEnroll for Financial Planning & Analysis Certificate Program:Level up your career and build skills for financial planning and analysis. Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling: https://bit.ly/4debs46 Earn Your CPE Credit For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In Today’s Episode[01:15] - Paul introduces the podcast and guest, Ryan Sanders.[02:26] - Ryan's background and career path[07:03] - The role of FP&A in growth investing[10:26] - The benefits of focusing on customer-driven, organic growth strategies over acquisitions.[14:51] - Insights into the technical and soft skills that FP&A professionals should develop [24:48] - Strategic decision making and financial planning & how FP&A can support this process.[35:20] - Kauffman Fellows Program Experience[41:30] - The Impact of generative AI on finance[51:10] - Conclusion and contact information about Ryan

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst delves into the dynamic world of financial planning and analysis (FP&A). He is joined by Josh Aharonoff, an experienced finance professional who has navigated the complexities of FP&A, accounting, and entrepreneurship. The conversation offers insights into the current state of FP&A and its evolving future, with practical advice for both aspiring and seasoned finance professionals.Josh Aharonoff is a seasoned finance expert with a background in accounting and a wealth of experience in both big four accounting and startups. After obtaining his CPA and working in global banking services, Josh ventured into entrepreneurship, co-founding a startup and later establishing his own firm, Mighty Digits, specializing in outsourced finance and accounting services. Josh is also a prominent figure on LinkedIn, with nearly 400,000 followers, and runs a popular daily newsletter and YouTube channel.Here is a summary of the key points from the discussion:Understanding what makes financial planning and analysis effective and impactful.Josh’s professional journey from big four accounting to entrepreneurship and becoming a fractional CFO.Insights into the chaotic yet rewarding environment of early-stage companies.Essential technical and soft skills needed to excel in financial planning and analysis.How to leverage social media for professional growth and its impact on career opportunities.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "Great FP&A is quick access to data that does not conflict with one another and easy inputs to see different scenarios, different outcomes." - Josh Aharonoff"If you're working for someone and you're thinking of going off on your own, it's a good idea to try to pick up some clients while you're still working." - Josh Aharonoff"In FP&A, it’s crucial to understand how to put together a forecast that not only tells the future but also showcases the past and allows you to easily tell the story of where the company has been." - Josh Aharonoff"People think that you create a financial model once. Okay, now you're done with it. In reality, every single month you should be updating your assumptions. You should be analyzing what exactly took place." - Josh AharonoffWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup below:https://bit.ly/4decOf3Follow Josh:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshaharonoff/Website - https://www.mightydigits.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyEnroll for Financial Planning & Analysis Certificate Program:Level up your career and build skills for financial planning and analysis. Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling:https://bit.ly/4debs46Earn Your CPE Credit For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:[01:38] Introduction to the show and welcoming the guest[02:14] Josh shares his perspective on what constitutes great financial planning and analysis.[02:44] Josh discusses his career journey, from big four accounting to starting his own firm.[05:31] Josh explains why he enjoys working with startups and the unique challenges they present.[06:54] Josh shares memorable experiences with clients, particularly with the company Chili Piper.[09:25] Josh reflects on why big four accounting wasn’t the right fit for him and what he learned from the experience.[15:51] Discussion on the biggest challenges of working with startups, including fundraising and constant evolution.[21:48] Josh offers advice for those looking to start their own advisory services.[26:05] Josh talks about his favorite aspects of working in FP&A.[34:55] Josh shares his journey of growing a significant following on LinkedIn and being recognized as a top voice.[40:12] Josh discusses his recent recognition by Microsoft and what it means to him.[41:25] Quick insights into Josh’s technical and soft skills, favorite tools, and personal preferences.[50:53] Information on how listeners can reach out to Josh and learn more about his offerings.

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst explores the evolving landscape of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) with expert insights from Ron Monteiro. The discussion centers on the crucial role of FP&A in shaping business strategies, driving financial performance, and fostering cross-functional collaboration within organizations.Ron Monteiro is a seasoned FP&A professional with extensive experience in the consumer goods industry. Having worked with major brands like Kraft Foods, Campbell Soup, and Kruger Products, Ron brings a wealth of knowledge in financial analysis, business partnership, and strategic decision-making. He now runs his own training business, helping finance teams worldwide enhance their skills and impact.Here is a summary of the key points from the discussion:The essential attributes of great FP&A and how it contributes to business success.Practical strategies for FP&A professionals to integrate themselves into business operations.The importance of building trust and cross-functional relationships in FP&A roles.Key operational metrics in the consumer goods industry and how to use them effectively.Tips for transitioning from accounting to FP&A and developing strong presentation skills.Follow Ron:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronmonteiro18/Website - https://www.kictinc.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyWorld-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup below:The FP&A Guy (thefpandaguy.com)Wharton FP&A Certificate ProgramFP&A Tomorrow Listeners are eligible to receive $300 off tuition for the FP&A Certificate Program from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prep.Learn More (use discount code THEFPAGUY300)The FP&A Certificate Program is a self-paced rigorous online program for professionals pursuing careers in corporate finance.PROGRAM AT A GLANCEFormat: Self-Paced & Live Office Hours (8 hours/week) Certificate: Issued by Wharton Online and Wall Street PrepClosing Ceremony in NYC (Attend Live or Virtually)Enrollment is currently open for the September 2024 cohort. Please note that the program is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.In today's episode:[01:36] - Paul Barnhurst introduces the podcast and welcomes Ron Monteiro to the show.[02:17] -Ron shares some light-hearted and embarrassing stories about Paul.[03:43] - Discussion on what makes FP&A great and its role in business involvement.[04:35] -Ron talks about the importance of trust and getting involved with other business functions.[05:26] - Ron shares his career journey from the University of Toronto to his current role in training.[09:11] - Ron reflects on his time in the consumer goods industry and memorable product launches.[11:38] - The critical operational metrics in consumer goods and their significance.[14:40] - Challenges and advice for moving from accounting to an FP&A role.[27:28] - Ron's journey from being terrified of presenting to becoming a confident presenter, with tips for others.[33:23] - Why FP&A departments should invest in training and continuous learning.[38:03] - Insight into Ron’s upcoming book and its focus on finding joy and passion in your career.[41:01] - Quick answers on technical and soft skills, forecasting methods, and more.[46:20] - Final tips on being better business partners and embracing a growth mindset.[47:08] - Information on how listeners can reach out to Ron Monteiro. 

Ken Lane, a seasoned financial controller and FP&A professional from Ontario, dives into the evolving landscape of financial planning and analysis. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration across business entities to drive meaningful change. Ken discusses the necessity for mid-market companies to invest in technology to modernize operations, particularly in the post-COVID supply chain context. He also touches on the influence of Gen Z's expectations on tech investments, urging businesses to adapt swiftly to remain competitive.

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.In today’s episode, Paul engages with Andrew Jepson, to discuss the world of Financial Planning and Analysis.Andrew, founder of the FBPteam, has over 20 years of experience in financial planning and analysis, starting his career as an auditor and evolving into a sought-after business partner and trainer. As a passionate advocate for professional development, Andrew has authored a book on business partnering, facilitated numerous training programs worldwide, and is dedicated to elevating the capabilities of finance professionals.Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:The great FP&A professionals go beyond just reporting numbers—they anticipate future trends and needs. This proactive approach is crucial for providing real value to the organization.Transitioning from a focus on being right to being effective is vital. Andrew shares his personal journey of learning to communicate better and build stronger relationships within the business.Business partnering involves working cohesively with other departments to solve real business problems and achieve strategic goals. Andrew outlines a framework for becoming an effective business partner, emphasizing understanding the business, effective communication, and building strong relationships.Time management, perception of finance, and systems and processes are common barriers to effective business partnering. Andrew provides practical advice on how to navigate and overcome these challenges.Mental Health and Work-Life Balance and the importance of seeking professional help. This episode highlights the need for self-awareness and taking care of one's mental health to maintain a successful career in finance.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "You do have time. What you've got to decide is what you choose to do at that time.”-Andrew Jepson"It's not what you say, it's how you say it. Your energy, all that sort of stuff."-Andrew Jepson"I think FP&A has a spectrum from average to really good. I think the average FP&A person is generally just pumping out numbers to their organization."-Andrew JepsonIn this episode, Andrew shares his journey from auditor to business partner and offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of FP&A. Remember to prioritize your mental health and continuously seek ways to improve your processes and time management.Link to courses: FP&A Business Partnering (thinkific.com)Modern Microsoft Excel (thinkific.com)Follow Andrew:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/financebusinesspartnering/Website - https://www.thefbpteam.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyIn today's episode:[01:01] - Introduction[01:43] - Guest Introduction[02:35] - Defining Great FP&A[03:34] - Anticipation in FP&A[05:21] - Andrew’s Career Journey[08:10] - Importance of Business Partnering[11:45] - Key Skills for FP&A Professionals[15:45] - Transitioning from Being Right to Being Effective[28:10] - Common Themes in FP&A Struggles[43:17] - Rapid Fire Session[50:01] - Get to know the Guest[53:15] - Conclusion

Bonnie Tomei, CFO of Salience Labs and Chief Strategy Officer for K2X, shares her extensive expertise in finance and strategic planning. She discusses how FP&A professionals can act as strategic partners, emphasizing the importance of understanding both internal and external factors. The conversation delves into the transformative role of AI in finance, underlining the necessity for human intelligence. Bonnie highlights the essential skills for aspiring CFOs, including relationship building and strategic thinking, crucial particularly in M&A activities.