Leadership, Strategy, and the Evolving CFO Role in Modern Finance with Jack McCullough

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, Paul Barnhurst interviews Jack McCullough to discuss the evolving landscape of FP&A and the changing role of CFOs. They explore the journey from FP&A to CFO roles, the strategic importance of finance today, and how CFOs are transitioning into broader leadership roles such as CEO. With insights into board management, leadership, and career growth, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the finance function's future.

Jack McCullough is a recognized authority in the world of finance leadership. As President of the CFO Leadership Council, Jack has guided countless CFOs through leadership development and strategic decision-making. He holds an MBA from MIT, is the host of the podcast Secrets of Rockstar CFOs, and is the author of two books, including The Psychopathic CEO. With a background in accounting and finance, Jack brings deep expertise in helping finance professionals thrive in leadership roles.

Expect to Learn:

• The key skills FP&A professionals need to develop to become future CFOs.
• How the role of CFO has shifted from financial control to strategic leadership.
• The importance of building strong relationships with board members and using them as resources.
• Insights into creating effective board presentations that align with audience expectations.
• Leadership qualities that define successful CFOs and finance leaders.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "FP&A is all about the future—how to consider it, prepare for it, and react when things go off course." - Jack McCullough
• "Empathy is one of the most underrated leadership skills for CFOs."  - Jack McCullough
• "When you see a problem no one else sees, and you solve it, that’s real value-add."  - Jack McCullough

In this episode, Jack McCullough provides a clear vision of the evolving role of CFOs and offers a wealth of knowledge on navigating the complexities of modern finance. His practical advice on building relationships with the board, crafting effective presentations, and honing leadership qualities such as empathy and transparency are invaluable for finance professionals at every level.

Follow Jack:

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

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

Visit Abacum - The Ultimate FP&A Solution

The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Abacum, the leading mid-market FP&A solution trusted by hundreds of companies to eliminate the spreadsheet struggle. https://www.abacum.io

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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

[01:32] Introduction to the episode and guest

[02:54] The role of FP&A in today’s finance world

[04:03] The Shift in the CFO role

[08:33] Stories from Jack’s Podcast World

[11:17] Mastering the key principles behind board deck

[13:46] Building relationships with board members

[18:09] Optimism vs. Realism in leadership

[22:53] Jack’s book “The Psychopathic CEO”

[34:47] Essential leadership qualities for CFOs

[39:09] Key technical and soft skills for FP&A

[45:26] Jack’s personal life and fitness insights

[52:19] Closing remarks and contact information