The Traits of a Modern CFO

As businesses become more complex, the role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) evolves. Today’s CFO must be able to not only handle traditional financial duties but also have a strong understanding of technology, business operations and digital strategy.

We’ve identified 7 traits below that are essential for a modern CFO’s success.

Most CFOs excel in 2 or 3 areas below, but to be the complete modern CFO, you need to harness all the below traits. Score yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 for each trait, to assess what areas you need to develop to keep at the top of your game:

1. Strong financial skills

Chief financial officers must have a strong understanding of financial concepts and be able to interpret financial data and act upon it when necessary.

You must be able to develop budgets, manage cash flow, and ensure compliance with financial regulations.

This is a critical role within any business, and you need to be able to provide accurate financial information to help make sound business decisions.

2. Extensive knowledge of business operations

Business acumen is the ability to understand how a business works and make sound decisions based on that understanding.

CFOs must have a good understanding of how businesses operate. You need to be able to identify opportunities and risks and develop strategies that will help the company grow.

Having knowledge of business operations is critical because the role of the CFO has now evolved beyond just leading the financial operations of the company into identifying business and investment opportunities that can create value for the business.

3. Strategic thinker

CFOs need to be able to think strategically and develop long-term plans for the company. You need to be able to identify challenges and opportunities and come up with creative solutions.

You also need to be able to communicate the company’s strategy to other members of the executive team and help them understand how the financials support the overall business strategy.

4. Strong leadership skills

As the CFO, you will be a key member of the executive team. You need to be able to lead and motivate your team, as well as build relationships with other members of the organization.

You must be able to lead your team and work collaboratively with other members of the executive team to make sure that all aspects of the business are working together towards common goals.

5. Excellent communication skills

CFOs need to be able to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholders. You need to be able to explain complex financial concepts in a way that is easy for others to understand.

You also need to be able to communicate the company’s strategy to your team members and subordinates.

6. Excellent foresight

Foresight is the ability to predict what will happen or be needed in the future. As a CFO, you need to be able to identify potential challenges and opportunities that the company may face in the future.

You also need to be able to develop contingency plans for when things don’t go as planned.

Before something happens, you need to be able to see it coming and think outside the box to come up with a solution.

7. The change leader

The modern CFO is not just a numbers person, but also a change leader. They are responsible for driving the company forward when it comes to process automation and investing in new financial technology.

This means that the CFO needs to be able to not only see the big picture but also have the ability to implement changes that will improve the company’s bottom line

They need to be able to make decisions quickly and effectively and lead their team through change.

Want to learn more about how we can help your finance team be more efficient? Get in touch with us today!