The CFO Show

What if the secret to financial agility lies in reimagining the relationship between FP&A and Controllership? Tom Seegmiller, CFO at Texada Software, returns to explore the transformative power of aligning FP&A and Controllership. Tom shares his journey from FP&A leader to full-spectrum CFO, and what he’s learned about the often-overlooked (but essential) collaboration between finance’s two core functions. Together, they unpack how siloed teams can unintentionally hold each other back—and how breaking down those walls can drive agility, enhance clarity, and increase business value.  Discover how aligning FP&A and Controllership could be the key to unlocking your finance team's full potential. Discussed in This Episode: What CFOs get wrong about Controllership, and how to fix it The hidden friction between finance subfunctions How to create “earned” seats at the table across the organization Why both FP&A and Controllership must focus on top-line growth Tools, leadership habits, and structural approaches that make cross-functional alignment stick How AI is helping finance teams build leverage and efficiency For CFO insights, episode show notes and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

Are you leveraging AI to its full potential in your finance department? In this episode, we dive into the practical application of AI in finance with Anton Medvedev, former Senior Product Manager at Vena and CPA/CFA. With his unique blend of finance and tech expertise, Anton offers a roadmap for effectively adopting AI in your financial operations. Anton shares insights on training AI models, understanding AI agents, and effective prompting techniques. He provides real-world examples that demystify this fast-moving technology. Whether you're experimenting with AI in Excel or trying to choose the right vendor, this episode offers practical strategies for getting started, scaling smartly, and ensuring your team stays ahead. Learn how you can transform your finance team from AI novices to strategic innovators, harnessing the power of AI to drive value in your organization. Discussed in This Episode: The core components of a good AI prompt What AI agents are and how they improve speed, security, and execution Why early adopters are key to driving internal change How to evaluate vendors on AI readiness for finance Common missteps teams make with AI and how to avoid them Why CFOs must personally engage and lead the AI learning curveFor CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

In this episode, host Melissa Howatson welcomes Steve Browning, VP of Data Privacy and Corporate Security at Vena, and Kaz Takemura, Managing Director of FP&A Technologies at Modelcom, to explore how finance teams can adopt AI safely and strategically. Steve and Kaz share practical, cross-functional strategies for embedding AI into business operations, from building the right teams to creating scalable governance frameworks. They also unpack the emotional and organizational barriers to AI adoption and offer tips to drive both innovation and risk management.  Whether you're just starting your AI journey or looking to optimize existing implementations, learn how to move from fear to forward momentum, without compromising security or trust. Discussed in This Episode: Why AI is now a non-negotiable technology The importance of cross-functional teams in AI governance How fear and job insecurity are major blockers to adoption The risks of shadow AI usage and how to spot it Guardrails that enable safe experimentation, not restriction Why employee education is the secret weapon of successful AI programsFor CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com. 

Is your finance team truly driving strategic value, or are you stuck in reactive mode?  Host Melissa Howatson, welcomes Peter Emerling, Director in the Digital Transformation Practice at Citrin Cooperman, to explore the finance maturity model, the four stages of finance maturity and what it takes to move from reaction to transformation. With over 18 years of experience advising businesses across industries and lifecycle stages, Peter breaks down the key components of a modern maturity model—from people and processes to data and governance—and shares practical ways finance leaders can assess where they stand and how to level up. If you're struggling with siloed systems, manual workarounds, or transformation fatigue, this episode offers a roadmap toward building a smarter, more agile finance function. Learn how you can assess your current maturity level and take concrete steps towards finance transformation that drives real business impact. Discussed in This Episode: The 4 finance maturity levels: Sustaining, Reactionary, Transforming, Innovating - Understanding where your team stands Five assessment pillars: People, Process, Technology, Data, and Governance Red flags that indicate your team may be stuck at level two How to evolve without ripping out your tech stack Real-world client examples and what drives true business impact Actionable strategies to progress through maturity stagesFor CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

The era of reactive supply chain management is over. Are you ready for predictive resilience? Nick McKeehan, Managing Director at Protiviti, shares CFO-focused insights on modern supply chain disruptions, from cybersecurity to geopolitical tensions. With 25 years in finance transformation, Nick guides the shift from reactive to predictive, tech-enabled decision-making. Learn how visionary leaders collaborate across the C-suite, invest in digital twins and AI, and redefine supply chain resilience as a competitive edge. This discussion equips finance leaders to navigate volatility, boost agility, mitigate risks, and drive change in today's complex business landscape. Discussed in This Episode: How today’s biggest threats—from tariffs to climate events—are reshaping modern supply chains What resilience means in a high-stakes global economy The CFO's crucial role in cross-functional supply chain leadership with COOs and CIOs How leading organizations use technology like AI and digital twins for smarter planning Finance’s expanding influence in risk management and strategic decisions For CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

What’s driving finance leaders’ strategic planning in 2025—and its future trajectory? In this data-packed episode, we welcome back Craig Schiff, CEO of BPM Partners to unpack the findings from Vena’s 2025 State of Strategic Finance Report. From AI adoption to strategic business partnering, Craig dives into key insights on how finance leaders are navigating change, deploying technology, and building more connected and capable teams. Drawing from the report’s insights, Craig reveals the critical direction finance teams must take to remain competitive and efficient. Together with host Melissa Howatson, Craig explores major themes from this year's survey, including a surprising optimism among finance leaders, a rise in cross-functional collaboration, and the evolving role of AI within finance operations. If you're a finance leader seeking clarity on where the industry is headed, this is your roadmap. Discussed in This Episode: Why finance leaders are feeling optimistic in 2025 The expanding strategic role of finance in business How teams are managing talent shortages while still growing What's driving widespread adoption of planning technology The real state of AI in finance and what's working Common traits of mature finance organizationsFor CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

In today's unpredictable real estate market, CFOs are facing complex decisions that could significantly impact their bottom line.   In this episode, Scot Ginsburg, Executive Managing Director at Hughes Marino and author of ‘It's Not All About the Rent’, breaks down the current commercial real estate landscape and what finance leaders need to know to make smart, strategic choices. From the office space downturn to industrial overbuilds, Scot explains why now the time is to rethink lease renewals, restructures, and how to negotiate with landlords. With almost three decades of experience exclusively representing tenants across various industries, he offers invaluable insights on avoiding costly lease mistakes and reveals why the mantra "it's not all about the rent" is crucial in today's market. Discover why traditional approaches to leasing may be costing your company more than you realize and learn the strategies that could save you money in the long run.Discussed in This Episode  Why the real estate landscape is shifting and how companies should respond Lease renewals vs. restructures: Understanding the differences and optimal timing for each Uncovering and avoiding hidden financial traps in commercial lease agreements How to negotiate with landlords in a down market What to look for in a commercial real estate broker: Ensuring the best representation The importance of following a process, even if you “know what you want”  For CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

As the startup funding landscape evolves, is your financial strategy keeping pace? In this changing environment, a well-crafted financial strategy has become increasingly crucial for startups. Janelle Gorman, CFO of York IE, York IE, an advisory and investment firm that helps technology companies grow, shares valuable insights on crafting financial strategies that can make or break a startup's success. Drawing from her extensive experience with high-growth startups, Janelle explores key topics such as optimizing cash flow, managing burn rates, and identifying the metrics that drive sustainable business growth.  Whether you're a CFO, finance leader, startup founder, or investor, this episode provides actionable strategies for building financial resilience and positioning your startup for success in the current economic climate. Discover how to transform financial challenges into opportunities for growth and long-term success. Discussed in This Episode  Navigating the delicate balance between growth and financial sustainability in today's market Evolving investor expectations and strategies to make your startup stand out in fundraising Cash flow management techniques to extend runway and fuel effective scaling Essential financial metrics for startup success, including how to optimize CAC payback period Why achieving product-market fit is crucial before ramping up sales and marketing efforts For CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

Revolutionizing tax functions is no longer a distant dream—it's happening now. This episode delves into the groundbreaking transformation of tax departments from cost centers to strategic powerhouses. Dave Helmer, EY Global Tax and Finance Operate Leader, and Daren R. Campbell, EY Americas Tax Technology and Transformation Leader, share their expertise on how Generative AI or GenAI and other cutting-edge technologies are elevating tax departments from mere cost centers to strategic business partners. The discussion explores how innovative tax strategies are influencing everything from supply chain management to corporate transactions, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of a modernized tax function. This episode examines the challenges and opportunities facing today's tax professionals. From talent acquisition to technological integration, it provides insights for finance leaders aiming to unlock the full potential of their tax departments and drive business value in an AI-driven world. Learn how forward-thinking companies are leveraging their tax functions to navigate complex regulatory environments, drive efficiency, and inform critical business decisions. Discussed in This Episode  The role tax plays in partnership with finance and business decision-making How Generative AI is helping CFOs transform tax operations Challenges in tax data management and integration within finance operations AI use cases in tax How tax functions integrate seamlessly into finance Initial steps for AI adoption Change management in AI adoptionFor CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

The AI revolution is here, and it’s transforming business as we know it.   In this episode, Hugh Cumming, Chief Technology Officer of Vena, discusses the new industrial revolution powered by artificial intelligence. With over 20 years of experience as a product and technology leader, Hugh offers insights into how AI is reshaping the modern business landscape.  The conversation delves into AI’s impact on finance and productivity, offering a glimpse into the future of work. Hugh outlines the emerging skill sets required to thrive in this new era and provides valuable advice on how professionals and organizations can stay competitive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.  Hugh explores the myriad ways AI is revolutionizing work by automating routine tasks, enhancing decision-making processes, and fostering creative problem-solving. From maximizing operational efficiency to nurturing creativity, Hugh offers practical examples and actionable insights for strategically integrating AI into business operations as a workforce partner.  Learn how AI is shaping the future of business and how you can position yourself and your organization at the forefront of this exciting new frontier.    Discussed in This Episode   The AI-Driven industrial revolution: How to avoid getting left behind  The changing skill sets required for the future AI-driven landscape  How businesses are integrating AI into their workflow  Embracing AI as a workforce partner, not your replacement  Suggestions on how to integrate AI without disruption  Importance of change management in AI adoption For CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

The art of corporate debt management has become a critical balancing act for CFOs, who must simultaneously fuel company expansion and preserve financial robustness.    Debt is a critical tool that, when leveraged effectively, can drive operational efficiency and business expansion. By structuring debt strategically, organizations can optimize liquidity, mitigate financial risk, and enhance overall capital efficiency.  Tom Panther, former Chief Financial Officer of Corpay, a leading S&P 500 corporate payments company joins our host Melissa Howatson to discuss the complexities of debt management. Drawing on his 30+ years of experience in finance, Tom explains how CFOs can navigate debt management amid fluctuating market conditions and leverage these changes to benefit their organizations.  Discover Tom’s strategies for effective spend management, proactive cash flow monitoring, and successfully adapting to today’s new business landscape.  Discussed in This Episode:  The macroeconomic impacts resulting from the Federal Reserve rate cuts and broader market volatility.   Strategies CFOs are employing to adapt their financial approaches in response to economic shifts.  Advice on how to maximize debt structure.  How businesses can hedge against volatility.  Positioning your organization for future growth in an evolving climate.For CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

Intellectual property (IP) is revolutionizing how companies build value. For many businesses, the key to sustainable growth lies not in their balance sheet, but in the ideas they own. Erin-Michael Gill, founder of M&A firm Genaesis, LLC, and Chairman of a Federal Advisory Committee on Intellectual Property and Trade, shares his expertise in this episode. With over $1.2 billion in M&A and capital formation investments under his advisory, Gill is consistently recognized as one of the world's leading IP strategists. Erin-Michael delves into the intersection of IP strategy, innovation, and deal-making. He discusses how CFOs can unlock the full potential of their IP portfolios to fuel growth, attract investors, and drive success in M&A transactions. Discover why IP should be at the forefront of your business strategy and learn practical approaches to developing and managing IP assets. Discussed in This Episode: The pivotal role of IP and intangible assets in driving company valuation and growth, with a focus on M&A contexts. Why many businesses overlook their potential to monetize IP and other intangible assets. How a well-crafted IP portfolio can become a cornerstone of a company's growth strategy, attracting investors and securing competitive advantages. The various ways patents add value to a business, from legal protections to social proof.  Strategies for assessing, valuing, and positioning intangible assets to optimize outcomes in deal-making scenarios.For CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

The CFO-COO partnership is undeniably one of the most powerful alliances that can make or break a company's success. When working in perfect harmony, this duo creates a formidable force that drives strategic decisions, enhances operational efficiency, and propels growth.  In this installment of our finance business partnering series, host Melissa Howatson welcomes Sandra Clarke, Former Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Blue Shield of California. Sandra, who spent the majority of her career in finance, progressed from analyst to CFO before taking on the COO role. She discusses the unique perspective of having been on both sides of the CFO-COO relationship, addressing the benefits of close collaboration as well as the challenges that may arise from competing priorities.  Discover what it takes to build a successful CFO-COO business collaboration that benefits the entire organization and learn how this dynamic partnership directly impacts a company's bottom line.  Discussed in This Episode: The role of the COO, its variability across companies, and where it intersects with the CFO role in facilitating company strategy and boosting growth. How finance leaders can bring the most value to the operations team by understanding the business, identifying patterns in numbers that may indicate potential issues, and recommending optimal resource allocation. Key elements of a strong CFO-COO partnership, including humility, mutual trust in each other's expertise, and an unwavering focus on what's best for the business. Navigating tensions between CFO and COO roles when financial data doesn't support perceived operational needs, and strategies for collaboration in these challenging situations. For CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

Healthcare costs continue to be the most unpredictable expense for businesses, creating a challenging dilemma for CFOs. While healthcare benefits serve as a powerful tool for recruiting and retaining employees, the escalating costs are forcing many finance leaders to seek innovative ways to reduce expenses without compromising the quality of care or the attractiveness of their benefits packages.Anisha Sood is the Chief Financial and Strategy Officer at First Choice Health, with more than 20 years of experience across the healthcare industry. Since joining First Choice Health in 2019, she has overseen finance and strategy, focusing on offering more cost-effective solutions to employers. In this episode, Anisha talks to host Melissa Howatson about why healthcare costs are rising and how providers like First Choice Health are bringing them down without sacrificing quality care.Discover how CFOs can adopt innovative approaches to manage both healthcare costs and employee benefits expenditures effectively during challenging economic times.Discussed in This Episode:Recent trends and changes in healthcare benefits, and factors contributing to rising costsHow First Choice Health is disrupting the traditional healthcare benefits model through expanded partnerships and reduced administrative costsStrategies to mitigate healthcare costs, including how insurers can tailor benefits to an employer’s unique needs, considering factors such as geography and remote workforceBalancing the CFO’s need to control costs with the CHRO’s goal of recruiting and retaining employeesThe growing importance of mental and behavioral health benefits in comprehensive healthcare packagesFor CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

The journey from being a solo finance expert to architecting a robust finance function is complex. Knowing where to begin and how to proceed can shape the future of your department and company.In this episode, host Melissa Howatson welcomes Amy Ward, CFO of Blue River PetCare, to discuss the intricacies of building a finance function from the ground up. Amy shares her journey from Senior Accountant to CFO, offering valuable insights into the strategic approach required to align finance with organizational goals and drive sustainable growth. Amy joined Blue River PetCare's team in 2014 as a Senior Accountant and, since then, has played a critical role in the development and management of their Accounting and Payroll teams.Discover how finance leaders should navigate hiring, technology investments, and cross-departmental collaboration as they build and nurture a finance team to drive long-term success.Discussed in This Episode:The most important considerations for finance leaders before making their first hireWhy Amy invested first in her accounts payable team, and how she now views this function as a breeding ground for talentHow to assess the technologies a business truly needs at various stages of its growthNavigating the challenges of transitioning from a small to a larger, more complex finance functionWhy culture fit is often overlooked in finance, but is just as important as in any other part of the businessWhy cultural fit is often overlooked in finance, but is just as important as in any other part of the businessFor CFO insights, episode show notes, and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.