What Every FP&A Leader Must Know About Driving Change with Leslie Stuart

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, we dive into the evolving landscape of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) with a focus on finance transformation. Leslie Stuart, a seasoned expert in FP&A and finance transformation, shares her insights on how modern finance functions are adapting to new technologies, data management practices, and process improvements to drive better business outcomes.

Leslie Stuart is the Director of Financial Planning & Analysis at Walmart Canada and a certified CPA. With a robust background in accounting, auditing, and operational finance, Leslie has been at the forefront of finance transformation, leading initiatives that integrate cutting-edge technology with traditional finance functions. Her career journey from external audit to leading finance transformations offers valuable lessons for anyone involved in or aspiring to drive financial excellence.

Expect to Learn:

• The importance of data quality and its impact on business decisions.
• Strategies for successfully managing finance transformation projects.
• How to navigate challenges in data management, from garbage data to valuable insights.
• The role of technology, including AI, in modernizing FP&A processes.
• Tips for engaging teams and fostering change in finance departments.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode 

• "Data and technology are often the easier pieces; the real challenge is with people and processes." - Leslie Stuart
• "Starting with a strong foundation in processes and controls is critical to any successful transformation." - Leslie Stuart
• "AI and machine learning are the way of the future for finance—helping us work more efficiently and effectively." - Leslie Stuart

In this insightful episode, Leslie Stuart takes us through the intricate process of finance transformation, emphasizing the importance of data quality, the role of technology, and the critical need for effective communication and process management. Her practical advice and personal experiences offer a roadmap for those looking to navigate the complexities of modern FP&A.

Follow Leslie:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-stuart/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: 

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis Certificate Program:

Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling: https://bit.ly/4debs46 Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 to save $300.

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

[01:31] - Introduction to the episode 

[02:17] - Leslie’s career journey and background

[02:46] - Discussion about evolution of FP&A

[08:07] - Leslie explains her transition from audit to FP&A

[12:35] - Managing large-scale finance transformations

[20:18] - Project management approaches in finance transformations

[31:14] - The Role of AI in FP&A

[37:06] - Continuous evolution in finance

[49:13] - Final thoughts and conclusion