As recruiters, we know that your career path can be as individual as your fingerprint, but we also know that if a C-suite role is your ultimate goal, there are some strategic steps you can take that will help you get you there.

Six Steps Towards the CFO Role

1. Experience and Expertise
   When reviewing a CV, we need to determine whether you’re suitable (and capable) of nailing the CFO position, because just like Spider-Man “with great power, comes great responsibility”.
    
   Do you have a solid background in finance, accounting or a related field? 
   Is there a progression in financial responsibility as you made your way through your career? Do you show an undeniable understanding of financial systems, accounting principles, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, risk assessment, and financial analysis?
   
   
2. Strategic Leadership
   Given that a CFO is a key part of any executive team and that they play a strategic role in shaping an organisation’s financial direction, we need to know that our client would be in a safe pair of hands if they choose you as their person.
    
   Can you showcase your leadership abilities and strategic mindset? 
   Do you have a list of accomplishments such as implementing successful financial strategies, driving revenue growth, optimising cost structures, leading mergers and acquisitions, or spearheading financial transformations?
   
   
3. Know-How, Can-Do
   When you make it to CFO level, you need a deep and thorough understanding of the industry you will be operating in. When we consider your suitability for the role, we’ll pay particular attention to your ability to integrate financial insights with the bigger picture operational and strategic aspects of our client.
    
   Is your career further strengthened by your business acumen, industry knowledge, and understanding of market trends?
   
   
4. People Skills 
   It’s not enough to be gifted with financial prowess, a CFO needs to interact with internal and external stakeholders, including other C-suite players, the board of directors, investors, auditors and regulatory bodies.
    
   It’s not easy to navigate these vital and, at times, sensitive relationships. Are you a confident communicator, a strong presenter, and a skilled relationship builder that has proven experience in communicating complex financial information, influencing decision-making, or built collaborative partnerships?
   
   
5. Achievements+
   When we’re comparing CV’s, we love seeing when a candidate believes in the “go loud” approach when it comes to specific achievements and measurable results.
    
   If you’re gunning for the CFO job, have you emphasised your contribution to the organisation’s success by way of quantifiable metrics and success stories that demonstrate just how awesome you are? These act as tangible proof that you’re ready for this C-suite challenge.
   
   
6. Credit for Credentials and Qualifications
   While clients may require different education qualifications, its safe to assume that a CFO position will need you to hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field.
    
   But it’s not enough just to have a framed piece of paper on your wall. We’d consider a candidate with a professional certification as a Chartered Account (CA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in a higher regard than a candidate without one.

If this list has left you feeling overwhelmed and perhaps a little daunted at the prospect of ever being ready for the CFO step, don’t worry! You’ve got time to build on the foundations you’ve already started to lay. We often say that knowledge is power and at least now you know the “total package” we’re looking for as a recruiter when sourcing for a CFO role.

It’s also important to remember that you’re more than the skills and experience listed on your CV and we make it a priority to really understand what makes you tick as a person because we want to match the right person for the right role, every time.

Ngā mihi nui