CFO (Chief Financial Officer): How to become a thriving CFO (+ free tips)

The roles and responsibilities of a CFO (chief financial officer) cannot be overemphasized. The CFO is one of the most important positions in a firm because the sole aim of every firm is to make a profit. which means that to achieve this goal, the CFO must be very effective. This article goes further to explain the details of everything you need to know, including CFO salaries and qualifications, CFO vs CEO and if you have always wondered how to become a CFO, read this!

CFO(Chief Financial Officer) Definition

CFO, which means Chief Financial Officer, is a senior officer of a company or firm whose primary responsibility is to manage the company’s finances or financial actions. Their roles also include financial planning, financial accounting, financial management, monitoring cash flow, and, in most cases data analysis. 

How they work

However, the role of a CFO can be likened to that of a treasurer because it is their responsibility to manage the finances and accounts of a company. They equally supervise the financial reports, making sure they are accurate and concise.

It is important to know that the CFO reports to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the board of directors. However, in some cases, it may be a member of the board. The responsibility of the CFO includes working directly with the Chief Operating Officer (COO) on financial matters. For example, strategic budget management, tactical cost analysis, findings etc.

The CFO is the highest-ranking financial position in the financial industry. Moreover, in a whole firm it is usually the 3^rd highest ranking.

CFO(Chief financial Officer) Roles and Responsibilities

Just like it was stated above, a CFO is concerned with the financial actions of a firm. Therefore, the roles and responsibilities will of a CFO will hover around accounting and finance.

 CFO roles and responsibilities specifically include;

• Managing and directing the financial and accounting sector in a firm or company.
• Making strategic recommendations to the CEO or members of the board.
• The role of the CFO includes managing and forecasting and supervising all the financial reports while making necessary corrections.
• Giving professional and informed advice on long term business and the financial planning involved.
• Try to develop and establish a relationship with an external or foreign financial partner and stakeholders.
• Reviewing all procedures related to corporate finance, HR, Information technology etc. Especially those that need qualitative and quantitative financial analysis.
• Analyzing future investments of the firm however reviewing current trends in the current market.

CFO(Chief Financial Officer) Salaries and Qualifications

CFO Salaries

On average, the Chief Financial Officer’s (CFO) salary on a yearly basis can vary based on some factors like locations, compensations, firms, qualifications, percentiles, etc. As of April 2019, chief financial officers that are within the 25th percentile get $371,548 on a yearly basis. Whereas, CFO’s salaries on the 75^th percentile is about $462, 923 yearly.

CFO Salaries for top 10 Metro Areas

A Table for CFO Salaries

The table above states the base compensation, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) salary, and bonuses in top 10 metro Areas.

CFO Qualifications

The requirements for a Chief Financial Officer are quite extensive; therefore, they can’t be acquired in a short time. That means, to apply for a CFO position, you have to have an impressive educational background, quite a number of financial certifications, and years of experience.

Firstly, you need to have a Bachelor or a master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or business administration.

Secondly, being a certified public accountant, a master of business administration, or a certified management accountant would be an added advantage.

Thirdly, having at least 10 years of work experience is a huge requirement. Especially if it is in a major firm, where you have had the experience of being a financial leader in estate development, property development etc.

In a simpler way;

• A minimum of 8, preferably 10, years experience in a senior role.
• CPA designation preferred.
• Masters degree in Accounting, Finance or Business.
• Up to date knowledge of current financial and accounting computer applications.
• Excellent verbal, analytical, organizational and written skills.

CFO Vs CEO

Most people get confused and mix up the roles and responsibilities of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with those of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO vs. CEO). While the CEO’s main role is to oversee the operations of the firm, the CFO’s main responsibility is to manage the financial sector of the business. In addition, the CEO answers and reports only to the board of directors because he holds the highest rank in a firm. On the other hand, the CFO is the highest-ranked person in the financial sector of the firm. However, the CFO reports to the CEO and equally to the board of directors.

So other than roles and responsibilities, a quick look at the major differences between CFOs and CEOs (literally; CFO vs CEO) should put things in perspective.

Differences between CFO and CEO (CEO vs CFO)

Responsibilities

The chief executive officer has the major responsibility of making sure the firm’s long-term goals are achieved by monitoring everything that happens in other departments. Although he/she doesn’t pay attention to direct details of the department, he works directly with the managers of various departments, financial advisors and then gets due reports. Some call the CEO “the manager of the managers,” which is nothing close to what CFOs do. This is why a basic overview of the “CFO vs CEO” idea should be a top priority

Furthermore, the chief financial officer is usually responsible for all the departments that deal with finances. For instance, accounting, auditing, budgeting etc.

Strategy

In most cases, the CEO lays out some strategies that will be used to achieve the goals of the firm. While the CFO manages the finances in a strategic way in order to achieve the financial goals of the firm.

Liaisons

Most of the time, the chief financial officer has a good relationship with investors, banks, lenders, etc. Now, this is because they have built the relationship over time by constantly meeting them in meetings, seminars, and conferences. However, this will help the company over time.

On the other hand, the CEO is like the identity or face of the company; he simply represents it when needed like talking with the press or meeting community leaders.

Reporting Relationships

The CEO reports to the firm’s board of directors, while the CFO reports to the CEO. The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) can also be among the board of directors, like the CEO.

Analysis

The CFO oversees tasks and analyzes them quantitatively and qualitatively. Also, the CFO reviews financial departments to ensure proper management of costs and allocation of resources.

Development

It is the CEO’s responsibility to prepare and train employees for management positions within the firm. Moreover, the Chief Financial Officer prepares and grooms employees for managerial positions only within the finance sector.

How to become a Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Asides knowing your way around accounting, there are rage of things you need to do to become a Chief Financial Officer. You need to be a financial strategist and also get familiar with trends in financing.

7 steps to becoming a CFO;

#1. Gain Broad Financial Experience

If you eventually want to become a CFO it means you will fully understand the fundamentals of budgeting, financial market, accounting principles, financial risk management.  

Having a strong financial experience is one of the major steps of becoming a CFO( Chief Financial Officer). This is because CFO’s have the responsibilities of ensuring that the CEO and the board’s financial decisions are regulated and sound.

Moreover, small businesses or firms can decide to merge the position of the CEO and CEO, this implies that in this scenario its only your expertise that can aid you.

#2. Expand your business and Operational experience

For a Chief Financial Officer’s career, having a very good understanding of business can go a long way.  This is because you will have regular board meetings and definitely have a need to collaborate with managers.

It might be important to have an experienced mentor in your field; this will help broaden your understanding of business and the operations of companies.

Another good way to increase your experience as a CFO is by taking leadership positions in nonprofit firms, in order to get the experience needed.

#3. Widen your customer service Experience

Investors are the key stake holders in a business, therefore as a CFO (Chief Financial Officer) you need to develop a good relationship with people in other firms. However, a good way to do this is by improving your communication skills and also presenting yourself as a team builder.

In addition, as a Chief Financial Officer, there will be frequent meetings with investors moreover this is a good opportunity to treat them well and make good presentation of the company and board.

#4. Don’t be left behind in the Technology Trends

In recent times, technology is fast creeping in into the world of business. For instance, there are a lot of softwares that can analyze data, provide cyber security, financial accounting etc. Now, as a Chief Financial Officer CFO one of your duties is to know the pros and cons of these technologies and innovations. Hereby, knowing what suits your firm best.

#5. Get a Certification

Having some certifications in financial accounting can help you go a long way in your CFO career. For instance, Certified Public Accountant CPA, Masters of Business Administration MBA. These certificates will help I improve your understanding of business and at the same time, give you a better chance at being a better CFO.

#6. Experience in Treasury positions

If you have an intention of becoming a CFO someday, then you should know that taking treasury positions is really good because it opens you up to so much financial experience. Which will eventually be needed as a CFO. 

However, having prior knowledge and experience in finance. Some of these experience could be; Internal audit manager, finance controller, account manager, etc.  

#7. Expand with your Role 

The CFO’s influence in the organization cannot be overemphasized. However, as the company or firm keeps expanding especially in information and technology. The CFO( Chief Financial Officer) needs to stay updated in order to make better informed decisions. 

Other Points to note down include:    

Widen your customer service Experience

Investors are the key stakeholders in a business, therefore as a CFO( Chief Financial Officer), you need to develop a good relationship with people in other firms. However, a good way to do this is by improving your communication skills and also presenting yourself as a team builder.

In addition, as a CFO there will be frequent meetings with investors moreover this is a good opportunity to treat them well and make a good presentation of the company and board.

Don’t be left behind in the Technology Trends

In recent times, technology is fast creeping in into the world of business. For instance, there are lots of software that can analyze data, provide cybersecurity, financial accounting etc. Now, as a Chief Financial Officer CFO, one of your duties is to know the pros and cons of these technologies and innovations. However, knowing what suits your firm best.

Get a Certification

Having some certifications in financial accounting can help you go a long way in your CFO career. For instance, Certified Public Accountant CPA, Masters of Business Administration MBA. These certificates will help I improve your understanding of business and at the same time, give you a better chance at being a better CFO.

Experience in Treasury positions

If you have an intention of becoming a CFO someday, then you should know that taking treasury positions is really a good because it opens you up to so much financial experience. Which will eventually be needed as a CFO. 

Having prior knowledge and experience in finance. Some of these experience could international Internal audit manager, finance controller, account manager, etc.  

Expand with your Role 

CFO’s influence in the organization cannot be overemphasized. However, as the company or firm keeps expanding especially in information and technology. The CFO( Chief Financial Officer) needs to stay updated in order to make better-informed decisions.  

Who is Higher a CFO or CEO? 

Yes. The chief financial officer (CFO) does report to the chief executive officer (CEO). The chief financial officer is often a voting member of the board of directors.

Is a CFO a Top Manager?

In terms of financial management at an organisation, the position of CFO is the pinnacle. Their job is to ensure the well-being of a business’s finances and to improve upon them. They manage and direct the company’s financial operations.

Does a CFO have a Boss?

Yes. The chief financial officer (CFO) reports to the chief executive officer (CEO) and the board of directors, and may also sit on the board.

How Stressful is being a CFO?

The job has its ups and downs, but it can be very fulfilling overall. In order to succeed in the role of chief financial officer (CFO), you need to be willing to take calculated risks, develop effective strategies, analyse data, manage people, and become an expert in the relevant technologies.

What Degree does a CFO need?

A background in finance and accounting is typically required for a position as CFO. While an MBA is a good next step for some, those who want to succeed in business should also focus on accounting and finance.

Is a CFO just an Accountant?

An accountant is responsible for keeping the books and records of a business. The chief financial officer (CFO) oversees the company’s long-term financial health. In providing advice based on what already occurred, an accountant is primarily reactive. The CFO takes the initiative by providing strategic advice to the company.

What is the Difference between CFO and CAO?

The Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) of an organisation is responsible for managing all aspects of the company’s accounting function. Budgets, projections, credit, taxes, and insurance all fall under the purview of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the highest-ranking financial position in the company.

Is it Hard to Become a CFO?

Time and effort are needed to rise to the position of chief financial officer. The ideal candidate for the Chief Financial Officer position will have the academic chops and professional experience to excel in the role. To become a Chief Financial Officer, one must work their way up from the ranks. If you’re willing to put in the time and energy, though, you can land a job that’s crucial to the success of a business.

Conclusion

It is no doubt that it is the primary role and responsibility of the CFO( Chief Financial Officer) is to optimize the financial performance of any firm they work with. Therefore, it is important to make sure the CFO has the qualifications to do the above. If you are trying to start a career as a chief financial officer it is important to take the due measures in order to be well qualified. Importantly check out the CFO salaries above to make sure you are not underpaid.

It is very important to understand the underlying difference between the CEO and CFO (CEO vs CFO) based on their roles and responsibilities. This largely has to do with the fact that many think CEOs can substitute the chief financial officer which is false except he has the proper qualifications.

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