Global CFO Institute’s Post

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE RadiusAI Welcomes Mark Schonau as Chief Financial Officer Tempe, AZ, April 17th, 2024 — RadiusAI, a leading provider of AI-powered solutions for retail optimization, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Schonau, CPA as Chief Financial Officer. Mark brings a wealth of experience and expertise in financial management and strategic planning to the RadiusAI team. With over thirty years of experience in finance and accounting, Mark has a proven track record of driving growth and operational efficiency in dynamic business environments. His extensive background includes leadership roles in publicly traded, venture and private equity held companies across various industries. Before joining RadiusAI, Mark served as the CFO for several high-profile companies, where his strategic initiatives significantly propelled growth, operational efficiencies, and investor returns. His tenure at Matrix Medical Network, Axway and CyCare Systems, among others, underscores his adeptness in M&A, financial modeling, and transitioning business models to adapt to the evolving digital/SaaS landscape. "We are thrilled to welcome Mark to RadiusAI as our new CFO," said Aykut Dengi, Co-Founder and CEO of RadiusAI. "His deep understanding of financial management and forecasting will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence in the retail technology market and drive sustainable growth." In his role as CFO, Mark will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations at RadiusAI, including financial planning and analysis, financial reporting, treasury management, risk management, and procurement. He will play a key role in guiding the company's financial strategy and supporting its long-term growth objectives. Mark's profound experience includes leading companies with a flawless record in regulatory compliance and overseeing transactions exceeding $1.5 billion during his career. "I am excited to join the talented team at RadiusAI and help drive the company's continued success," said Mark Schonau. "I believe RadiusAI is well-positioned for growth, and I look forward to contributing to its strategic initiatives and delivering value to its customers and stakeholders." Mark holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Arizona State University, started his career at Ernst & Young, and is a licensed CPA in the state of Arizona. About RadiusAI: RadiusAI is a leading provider of next-generation retail solutions, offering cutting-edge technology in AI self-checkout, digital transformation, and retail analytics. With a mission to revolutionize the retail industry, RadiusAI is committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving marketplace. For media inquiries, please contact:  Jeff Cox Co-Founder & Board Member RadiusAI, Inc. Jeff.Cox@radius.ai

Following this morning's opening bell at the NYSE...   Introducing The 2023 F Suite Summit Co-Chairs... 🎤 Sindy Wilson, Chief Financial Officer at Kickstarter  With over two decades of experience, Sindy has used her expertise to enhance financial performance and foster growth through transformative analytics. As VP of Finance Transformation & Analytics at Lyft, Sindy refined financial systems for better decision-making. She has also held CFO and transformation leadership positions at Oldcastle, EY, Cox, and IHG, all supported by a B.S. from Limestone University, an MBA from Emory University, and a MACC from UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School.   Sindy’s experience includes: ✅ Responsibility for a $1B P&L portfolio of strategic growth and transformational initiatives, including capital and operating expenditures and value creation. ✅ Developing strategies for consolidating back-office functions to enable scalable growth. ✅ Leading Accounting Operations: AR, AP, and Payroll with excellent results.  ✅ Leading the Finance arm of our Global SAP S4 HANA design and implementation - AR, AP, Banking, GL, Fixed Assets, Costing, and Reporting. ✅ Maturing financial processes, systems, and analytics capabilities, with the goal of enabling accurate, trusted, and efficient decision-making. ✅ Overseeing and managing the financial aspects of business, ensuring the company’s financial health, and providing strategic financial guidance to support our overall goals.   🎤 Chris Davis, Chief Financial Officer at Alma  With more than 25 years of experience, an undergrad degree from Penn State University, and an MBA in finance from the University of Southern California - Marshall School of Business, Chris has held several finance leadership roles in industries such as media, software, and health. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer at Alma, a mental health platform that simplifies access to high-quality mental health care.   Chris's experience includes: ✅ Leading finance operations as CFO at Managed by Q. ✅ Directing finance and operations teams at The Huffington Post, as Senior Vice-President of Finance and Operations ✅ Contributing to strategic financial planning as Chief Financial Officer of Madstone Films and Madstone Theaters. ✅ Providing financial insights as Vice President of Finance at Exhale Spa. ✅ Overseeing financial operations as Vice President of Finance at Good Machine   For CFOs only, the summit will address the challenges of today's volatile business environment. Attendees will explore advanced financial strategies, AI implications, IPO considerations, and leadership tactics with industry experts, gaining critical insights and networking opportunities to excel in financial leadership. F Suite members become even closer to their closest peers, sharing their experiences that glean insights on the future of financial planning and leadership. Now for Sindy and Chris guide the way... #fsuite

A highly useful post by Tom Schultz that highlights the different kinds of Fractional CFOs. Every company is different, so there is no "one-size-fits-all." What kind of Fractional CFO could help your business?

Great post for those trying to understand what a fractional CFO does. Capital Clarity CFO Services would fall mostly into #4. I posted earlier that there are two ways to grow: more customers or more valuable customers. We focus on the latter. There are many ways to make your customers more valuable. We analyze your finances to determine the highest value actions you can take to increase LTV the fastest. This is why our packages only make sense for companies looking to grow. There are many fCFO options available. Every business is different, but strong financial leadership is critical to grow and mitigate risk. #fractionalcfo #virutalcfo #financial #strategy #smallbusiness #growth

CFO vs CEO: A Clash of Titans The CFO and CEO are two of the most critical roles in any organization. While they share the ultimate goal of company success, their roles, responsibilities, and skill sets are distinct. The CFO: The Financial Guardian The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is the company's financial steward. Their primary responsibilities include: Financial Strategy: Developing financial plans, strategies, and models to support the company's overall business plan. Financial Operations: Overseeing accounting, treasury, financial planning and analysis, risk management, and investor relations. Financial Reporting: Ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting to regulatory bodies and stakeholders. Financial Analysis: Providing financial insights to support decision-making and identify opportunities for improvement. Essentially, the CFO is the financial architect of the company, ensuring its financial health and stability. The CEO: The Visionary Leader The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the ultimate decision-maker and the public face of the company. Their responsibilities encompass: Strategic Leadership: Setting the company's vision, mission, and values, and developing strategies to achieve them. Operational Management: Overseeing the company's overall operations, including sales, marketing, production, and human resources. External Relations: Building relationships with customers, partners, investors, and the community. Crisis Management: Responding to challenges and opportunities that arise. The CEO is the captain of the ship, responsible for navigating the company through turbulent waters and charting its course for the future. The CFO vs CEO Debate While both roles are essential, the debate often centers on the following: Power Dynamics: Who holds more power, the CFO or the CEO? Traditionally, the CEO has held more power, but the increasing complexity of financial matters and the growing influence of finance on business strategy has elevated the CFO's status. Leadership Styles: CFOs are often seen as more analytical and risk-averse, while CEOs tend to be more visionary and entrepreneurial. However, these are generalizations, and effective leaders in both roles need a balance of these qualities. Succession Planning: Can a CFO successfully transition to the CEO role? While it's certainly possible, it requires a strong understanding of the broader business landscape and the ability to inspire and motivate people. Ultimately, the success of a company often depends on the strong partnership between the CFO and CEO. They must work together to create a shared vision, align financial goals with strategic objectives, and build a high-performing team. Would you like to delve deeper into a specific aspect of the CFO vs CEO debate, such as the challenges of transitioning from CFO to CEO or the impact of technology on these roles?

The Misfit CFO: Breaking the Mold in the Corporate World The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – a title synonymous with stoicism, spreadsheets, and a sharp eye for the bottom line. But what happens when a CFO doesn't fit the mold? This article explores the idea of the misfit CFO, a financial leader who challenges the status quo and brings a unique perspective to the corporate table. The Traditional CFO: A Pillar of Stability Traditionally, CFOs have been the guardians of financial stability. They wield the power of the budget, analyze risk with laser focus, and ensure the company operates within its means. They are the voice of reason, steering the ship away from financial storms. The Rise of the Misfit CFO However, the business world is changing. In today's dynamic environment, companies need more than just number crunchers. They need strategic thinkers who can translate financial data into actionable insights, embrace innovation, and champion calculated risks. Enter the misfit CFO. Traits of the Misfit CFO Visionary: The misfit CFO isn't just focused on the bottom line; they see the bigger picture. They understand the financial implications of strategic decisions and use their expertise to guide the company towards long-term growth. Creative Problem Solver: Misfit CFOs aren't afraid to think outside the box. They challenge conventional wisdom and seek innovative solutions to complex financial challenges. Storyteller: Numbers tell a story, and the misfit CFO is a master storyteller. They can translate complex financial data into clear, concise narratives that resonate with all levels of the organization. Tech-Savvy: The misfit CFO embraces technology. They understand how to leverage financial technology (FinTech) to streamline processes, gain deeper insights, and make data-driven decisions. People Person: Finance isn't an island. The misfit CFO understands the importance of collaboration. They build strong relationships with other departments, fostering a culture of open communication and shared goals. The Impact of the Misfit CFO The misfit CFO can be a disruptive force for good. They challenge the status quo, inject creativity into financial decision-making, and help companies navigate an increasingly complex economic landscape. Finding Your Inner Misfit Whether you're an aspiring CFO or a seasoned professional, there's a misfit waiting to be unleashed. Embrace your unique strengths, cultivate a forward-thinking mindset, and don't be afraid to challenge the norm. The corporate world needs more misfit CFOs – financial leaders who are as comfortable with creativity as they are with crunching numbers.

The Fractional CFO: How Your Financial Expertise Can Supercharge the Economy For years, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) has served as the financial backbone of a single company, navigating its unique intricacies and guiding its course. But what if this expertise could be utilized beyond the walls of one organization, impacting not just a single entity, but the broader economic landscape? Enter the fractional CFO: a game-changer poised to unlock exponential growth potential. As a seasoned CFO yourself, you know the value you bring: financial acumen, strategic foresight, and risk management skills. These skills are not exclusive to large corporations. Countless small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) crave this guidance, yet often lack the resources to hire a full-time CFO. This creates a gap: businesses yearning for financial leadership and talented CFOs unable to reach their full impact. The fractional CFO model bridges this gap. By offering your expertise on a part-time, project-based basis to multiple companies, you can: Empower SMBs: Equip them with financial planning, analysis, and budgeting tools they desperately need, fostering their expansion and job creation. Diversify your experience: Gain exposure to diverse industries and business models, broadening your knowledge and enriching your skillset. Increase your earning potential: Serve more clients, leverage your expertise efficiently, and potentially earn more than a traditional full-time position. Contribute to economic growth: By strengthening numerous businesses, you contribute to a ripple effect of economic advancement. But how do you convince others of this value proposition? Here are some key arguments to emphasize: Cost-effectiveness: Fractional CFOs offer specialized expertise at a fraction of the cost of a full-time hire, making them highly attractive to budget-conscious SMBs. Focus on core competencies: Businesses can access specific skillsets they need at specific times, avoiding the burden of managing a full-time employee. Scalability: As their needs grow, companies can adjust the level of your engagement, ensuring a perfect fit. Industry insights: You bring a wealth of experience from various sectors, offering fresh perspectives and best practices. Remember, becoming a fractional CFO requires adaptation and innovation: Develop flexible service packages: Cater to diverse business needs and budgets. Embrace technology: Utilize digital tools for efficient communication and collaboration. Network strategically: Build connections with business coaches, accountants, and consultants to reach potential clients. By taking this leap, you elevate your career while driving positive economic change. You become a catalyst for growth, empowering businesses and shaping a more dynamic, thriving economy. So, are you ready to unlock your full potential as a fractional CFO? The time is now. Lets Connect

The Strategic CFO - https://lnkd.in/gHfvrKJP The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) role has traditionally been a custodian of financial acumen, integrity and shareholder value—selecting indicators to measure organizational growth and ensuring value. Inflation, stricter regulations and governance requirements have caused the CFO position to exist in nearly every organization these days.  However, this wasn’t the case in the last quarter of the twentieth century.  Fewer than 10% organizations in the U.S. had CFOs prior to 1978. After the year 2000, the percentage of CFOs in the U.S. grew to 80% or higher each year.  The status of the finance unit lead has been elevated to the level of business partner and a permanent member of the top management—a member of the board at some corporations. The CFO position is experiencing significant Transformation in almost all industries across the globe, lately.  PWC conducted exhaustive research and interviews at multiple organizations and industries to gauge these drastic changes. Research revealed that today’s CFO is responsible not just for tracking and managing company financials, but also plays a key role in Strategic Planning and Value Creation .  In particular, the CFO must make certain the organization is selecting and investing in the right initiatives—where the deployment of financial resources is tied to the distinct organizational capabilities.  The CFO role, today, needs to serve as a leader and facilitator of change.  These additional responsibilities bring the CFO closer to other units, i.e.—IT, Marketing, R&D etc.—and aid in developing a formidable capabilities system. Today’s CFO has to have a bigger picture perspective to ensure that the firm is headed in the right direction and there is a sound Business Case with realistic expectations to every initiative.  Executives aspiring for the CFO role should possess the soft skills that are not taught during studies, but can be developed under the guidance of right mentors and in the right environment. Research and executive interviews by PWC reveal that there are 5 core characteristics required for executives to become Strategic CFOs : Understanding the Holistic Value Chain Insight into Business Drivers A Keen Eye for Talent Cultural Engagement & Change Integrity & Interpersonal Skills Let’s delve a bit deeper into the first 2 of these core characteristics. 1. Understanding the Holistic Value Chain Aside from optimizing Performance, CFOs must assign time assisting the leadership, developing a well-rounded point of view of the value chains, identifying critical areas, and develop strategic initiatives.  The Strategic CFO supports developing unique capabilities, long-term investment, and customer value.  She/he has an in-depth knowledge of what other functions do in the enterprise and is in a better position to develop greater cross-functional collaboration, ..

The Strategic CFO - https://lnkd.in/eYZ6GXz5 The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) role has traditionally been a custodian of financial acumen, integrity and shareholder value—selecting indicators to measure organizational growth and ensuring value. Inflation, stricter regulations and governance requirements have caused the CFO position to exist in nearly every organization these days.  However, this wasn’t the case in the last quarter of the twentieth century.  Fewer than 10% organizations in the U.S. had CFOs prior to 1978. After the year 2000, the percentage of CFOs in the U.S. grew to 80% or higher each year.  The status of the finance unit lead has been elevated to the level of business partner and a permanent member of the top management—a member of the board at some corporations. The CFO position is experiencing significant Transformation in almost all industries across the globe, lately.  PWC conducted exhaustive research and interviews at multiple organizations and industries to gauge these drastic changes. Research revealed that today’s CFO is responsible not just for tracking and managing company financials, but also plays a key role in Strategic Planning and Value Creation .  In particular, the CFO must make certain the organization is selecting and investing in the right initiatives—where the deployment of financial resources is tied to the distinct organizational capabilities.  The CFO role, today, needs to serve as a leader and facilitator of change.  These additional responsibilities bring the CFO closer to other units, i.e.—IT, Marketing, R&D etc.—and aid in developing a formidable capabilities system. Today’s CFO has to have a bigger picture perspective to ensure that the firm is headed in the right direction and there is a sound Business Case with realistic expectations to every initiative.  Executives aspiring for the CFO role should possess the soft skills that are not taught during studies, but can be developed under the guidance of right mentors and in the right environment. Research and executive interviews by PWC reveal that there are 5 core characteristics required for executives to become Strategic CFOs : Understanding the Holistic Value Chain Insight into Business Drivers A Keen Eye for Talent Cultural Engagement & Change Integrity & Interpersonal Skills Let’s delve a bit deeper into the first 2 of these core characteristics. 1. Understanding the Holistic Value Chain Aside from optimizing Performance, CFOs must assign time assisting the leadership, developing a well-rounded point of view of the value chains, identifying critical areas, and develop strategic initiatives.  The Strategic CFO supports developing unique capabilities, long-term investment, and customer value.  She/he has an in-depth knowledge of what other functions do in the enterprise and is in a better position to develop greater cross-functional collaboration, ..

A chief financial officer, or CFO, traditionally serves as leader of all finance and accounting matters within a business organization. In short, the CFO is primarily responsible for the fiscal health of the enterprise. Acting as a close business partner and advisor to the CEO, the CFO ensures that financial decisions align with the overall strategic goals of the organization. You might be surprised that, although accounting is referred to as the language of business, many business leaders do not fully speak and understand that language. So, it’s also the critical role of a CFO to be a great business communicator or storyteller, for the benefit of stakeholders both within and outside of the organization. We’ve found that to be truly effective, a CFO must have a wide variety of skills that include leadership, accounting and finance knowledge, and technical insight – plus they need to be a strategic thinker and implementer. In this week's article, we answer the most common questions we get about the role of CFO, including: • What do they do? • How is the CFO role different from other accounting positions? • Why does a family business need a CFO? • What are fractional CFO services? You can read it here: https://lnkd.in/gTmDzkcs