A good CFO / Financial Director provides oversight as well as insight. They will make the right strategic decisions based on appropriate analyses and information. They will keep costs and cashflow under control. No surprises. Creating value in both the short and long term. A constructive sparring partner who understands the business and what realistic possibilities exist. But who will take a contrary position if needed. Keenly focused on costs and risks. Strategically strong, with the power to implement. Someone who understands the specific setting, based on their experience within the sector and likely outside of it too.
With the right skills and experience, obviously. But who also connects with the ambition, challenges and culture of the organization, while adding a fresh perspective. Not a corporate type. Appointing someone is not hard, but making a sustainable appointment is. We look at the story behind the CV. Whether someone will truly fit depends largely on their values, drives and who they are as a human being.
