The Real Reason CFOs Have the Shortest Careers With Steve Rosvold

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, dives into the evolving role of the CFO and the impact of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) on modern businesses. Steve Rosvold joins the show to explore the critical skills and strategies that drive success in financial leadership today.

Steve Rosvold is a seasoned finance leader and the founder of CFO University, a platform dedicated to developing CFOs and aspiring financial leaders. With a robust career spanning over two decades, including a CFO role at ConAgra Malt, Steve shares his journey from corporate finance to entrepreneurship, offering invaluable insights into the CFO's expanding role.

Expect to Learn:

• The evolution of the CFO role: from cost controller to strategic partner.
• Key challenges CFOs face in balancing tactical and strategic priorities.
• How FP&A professionals can better align with business objectives to drive value.
• The importance of technical and soft skills in transitioning from FP&A to the CFO role.
• Practical advice for aspiring CFOs, including mentorship and self-awareness.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Human capital is becoming one of the most critical areas for CFOs to manage and measure." - Steve Rosvold
• "One of the best ways to refine your communication is to get feedback from mentors."  - Steve Rosvold
• "The foundation of FP&A is in accounting, but its value lies in its forward-looking insights."  - Steve Rosvold

This episode of FP&A Tomorrow provided a masterclass in the evolving landscape of financial leadership. From the significance of self-awareness to the need for actionable insights, Steve emphasized the blend of technical expertise and interpersonal skills required for success.

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Website - https://www.cfo.university/

LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/steverosvold/

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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

[02:13] Steve’s Career Journey and Background

[03:57] Transition Challenges as a CFO

[09:53] The Changing CFO Role and Responsibilities 

[14:11] FP&A Transformation as a critical function

[21:37] Skills and mindset shifts for aspiring CFO’s

[29:14] Steve’s Approach to Training Finance Leaders

[34:31] Great FP&A Practices

[45:29] Embracing Generative AI Tools

[55:08] Closing Advice and Wrap Up