This morning I had a great meeting with my FLG Partners, Laureen DeBuono, Bob Finley, Stephanie Roberts, William Atkins, Andrew Levitch, Greg Johnstone, Eric Hall, CFA and Eric Mersch. Our conversation got me thinking about the CEO:CFO relationship and what makes it work.
Trust between a CFO and CEO is the bedrock of any successful business strategy. It forms the foundation for every decision, strategy, and long-term vision. When I step into my role as a CFO, I embrace not just the responsibility of managing the numbers, but also the duty to foster a relationship based on transparency and honesty with the CEO.
In these interactions, it is crucial to understand that delivering bad news is not the end but a beginning - the start of a problem-solving journey. It's not just about dropping a bombshell and walking away; it’s about being the navigator through the storm, presenting not just problems but potential solutions and pathways forward.
When I say, “I understand what you’re trying to accomplish,” it’s more than empathy. It’s a pledge that I’m aligning my expertise with your vision, ensuring that our financial strategies are not just supportive but also innovative, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the confines of financial prudence.
Saying “Here’s how we can achieve it” isn’t just about laying out a roadmap. It's about providing a detailed plan that’s realistic, sustainable, and flexible enough to adapt to the inevitable changes in our dynamic business environment.
And when I outline “Here’s what is possible and what is not possible,” I’m not just setting boundaries. I’m opening a dialogue about priorities, trade-offs, and the art of the possible. It’s about making informed decisions that are in the best interest of the company's long-term success, even if they require short-term sacrifices.
Ultimately, the CEO-CFO relationship thrives on a mutual understanding that while our roles may be different, our goal is the same: to ensure the health, growth, and success of the organization. My commitment to you, as a CFO, is to ensure that the financial realities never blindside you but empower you to lead with confidence and clarity.
Cosmetologist @ Bumble and bumble | Analytical Skills
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