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15 Questions About Skills and Competencies in Finance and Accounting

February 14, 2025

15 Questions About Skills and Competencies in Demand in Finance and Accounting

What Does the Modern Finance Leader Look Like?

Gone are the days when a strong grasp of numbers was enough to ascend to the finance leadership summit. Today’s CFOs are expected to be strategic visionaries, technology evangelists, and change management gurus—all rolled into one.

Our report has ignited a firestorm of questions about the evolving skill set required for finance executives. In this section, we’re breaking down the must-have competencies that will separate the visionaries from the obsolete. Whether you’re looking to elevate your career or build a high-performing finance team, these insights will help you cultivate the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex business landscape.

As a CFO, how can I develop my data analytics skills to better drive strategic decision-making?

Focus on becoming proficient in advanced data analytics and visualization tools like Power BI and Tableau [p.8]
Leverage AI and machine learning for financial insights and forecasting [p.8]
Utilize data-driven algorithms and sophisticated analytics for improved accuracy in forecasting [p.24]

What specific technology implementation experience should I be gaining to stay competitive in the job market?

Develop expertise in implementing and integrating financial systems across departments [p.27]
Gain experience in AI and automation technologies for routine financial tasks [p.39]
Focus on cybersecurity tools for financial data protection [p.28]

How can I effectively demonstrate my strategic thinking abilities during the executive search process?

Showcase your ability to align financial strategies with overall business objectives [p.29]
Highlight experience in preparing companies for sale, IPOs, or navigating complex financial regulations [p.7]
Emphasize your role in driving business growth beyond traditional financial management [p.19]

What are the most crucial soft skills for a modern CFO, and how can I develop them?

Develop strong communication skills to translate financial data for non-finance audiences [p.31]
Improve adaptability to navigate rapidly changing business environments [p.30]
Enhance cross-functional collaboration skills, particularly with operations and technology departments [p.30]

How can I showcase my change management experience in a way that resonates with potential employers?

Highlight your experience in leading organizations through digital transformations [p.29]
Showcase your ability to navigate mergers and acquisitions processes [p.7]
Emphasize your skills in managing the transition to more strategic finance roles [p.15]

What are the best ways to gain cross-functional expertise, particularly in operations and technology?

Spend significant time meeting with line-of-business managers [p.30]
Take a leading role in driving digital transformation initiatives [p.18]
Develop proficiency in implementing and integrating financial systems across departments [p.27]

How can I develop my communication skills to better translate complex financial information for non-finance stakeholders?

Focus on relating financial data to overall business objectives and strategies [p.29]
Use data visualization tools to present complex information in an easily digestible format [p.18]
Practice translating financial concepts for non-finance audiences regularly [p.31]

What certifications or additional education should I pursue to enhance my marketability as a finance executive?

Focus on gaining proficiency in AI, data analytics, and emerging financial technologies [p.8, p.24]

How can I demonstrate adaptability and quick thinking during the interview process for a CFO position?

Highlight your experience in navigating economic uncertainty and market volatility [p.39]
Showcase your ability to pivot strategies for rapidly changing business environments [p.30]
Emphasize your skills in leveraging technology to improve efficiency and decision-making processes [p.18]

What are the most effective ways to showcase my experience in private equity or M&A to potential employers?

Highlight your expertise in preparing companies for sale or public offerings [p.7]
Showcase your experience in implementing strategies for rapid growth and value creation [p.7]
Emphasize your ability to identify potential target companies for acquisition [p.7]

How can I develop my skills in AI and machine learning as they relate to financial leadership?

Focus on implementing AI tools for more precise forecasts and market movement predictions [p.24]
Gain experience in automating routine financial tasks using AI [p.39]
Develop proficiency in using AI for financial insights and forecasting [p.8]

What strategies can I use to highlight my experience in driving digital transformation initiatives?

Showcase your role in implementing and integrating financial systems across departments [p.27]
Highlight your experience in leveraging technology to improve efficiency and decision-making processes [p.18]
Emphasize your ability to lead digital transformation efforts in finance departments [p.18]

How can I effectively demonstrate my ability to balance traditional financial acumen with modern leadership requirements?

Highlight your experience as a strategic partner to the CEO and other C-Suite members [p.19]
Showcase your ability to drive business growth beyond traditional financial management [p.19]
Emphasize your cross-functional expertise, particularly in operations and technology [p.30]

What are the best ways to gain experience in strategic business growth if my current role is more focused on day-to-day operations?

Take on projects that involve preparing companies for sale or public offerings [p.7]
Seek opportunities to implement strategies for rapid growth and value creation [p.7]
Focus on developing expertise in identifying potential target companies for acquisition [p.7]

How can I showcase my ability to navigate complex financial regulations and compliance issues to potential employers?

Highlight your experience in strengthening financial reporting and compliance processes [p.37]
Showcase your ability to manage financial data protection and risk management in the digital age [p.28]
Emphasize your operational authority to enforce standards of integrity company-wide [p.28]

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