Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast
The EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast explores the changing dynamics of the business world and what it means for finance leaders of today and tomorrow. Hosted by EY’s Myles Corson, this series offers insights from leaders on key topics affecting the world of corporate finance.
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How CFOs can turn AI investment into enterprise impact
10/07/2026
How CFOs can turn AI investment into enterprise impact
The question facing every CFO and finance leader right now is, how to invest in AI when the value case is still emerging? Andrew Ashton, Cisco’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Finance, sits down with host Myles Corson to discuss the strategy behind how finance leaders can prove AI’s impact. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders on AI, finance transformation and business strategy. Find out more at . Key takeaways: Treat AI spend as additive rather than a substitute for existing budget and prioritize accordingly. Use pilots to identify patterns of value through better forecasting, stronger insights and faster decision-making. Coordinate AI activity across functions to reduce duplication and focus resources where they can have the greatest impact. Establish governance and security controls early to support AI adoption across the enterprise. Embed AI across existing priorities rather than treating it as a standalone initiative. © 2026 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs are rewriting the definition of leadership
08/24/2026
How CFOs are rewriting the definition of leadership
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Myles Corson speaks with Sheryl Estrada, senior writer at Fortune and author of the CFO Daily newsletter. Drawing on her conversations with finance leaders, Sheryl shares insights into how the CFO role is evolving beyond traditional finance responsibilities. She also explores how CFOs are playing an increasingly influential role in enterprise transformation. Sheryl explains that finance leaders are rethinking whether traditional performance metrics fully capture business growth. With CFOs taking a more active role in shaping business strategy, organizations are placing greater emphasis on connecting financial performance to the broader business narrative. As a result, finance is reassessing legacy KPIs and redefining how value is measured and communicated. The need for greater clarity is also reshaping the finance function itself. Sheryl describes AI and automation as a way to move finance beyond routine work, creating more capacity for the function to contribute to the business as a strategic partner. As CFOs rethink how roles are structured and how work gets done, the future of finance becomes less about adopting new technology and more about building a finance function that can bring sharper insight to the decisions that shape long-term value. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Understand how the CFOs role is evolving beyond traditional finance responsibilities Recognize the growing influence of AI on finance priorities and decision-making Rethink how organizations measure and communicate value Strengthen collaboration across the C-suite through data-driven insights Prepare finance teams for a more strategic, technology-enabled future © 2026 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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What CFOs should fix before scaling AI in finance
07/22/2026
What CFOs should fix before scaling AI in finance
Many finance organizations are exploring how to scale AI, but readiness remains uneven across teams and processes. In this episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Mike Whitmire, CEO and co-founder of FloQast, about what CFOs need to get right before scaling AI in finance. Drawing on his experience working with thousands of finance teams and building FloQast’s accounting workflow platform, Mike explains why visibility into workflows, structured processes and reliable data remain essential for effective AI adoption. The conversation also highlights how AI adoption varies widely across finance functions, with different levels of maturity requiring tailored approaches based on scale, complexity and growth plans. Mike also discusses the importance of governance, audit readiness and operating discipline, outlining how CFOs can align people, process and technology to scale AI in a structured way and deliver measurable value. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Challenge assumptions about AI by focusing on what finance teams need to trust and adopt it, not what technology promises. Tailor AI approaches to the scale, complexity and maturity of the finance function, rather than applying a single model. Redefine the role of finance teams, with greater emphasis on judgement, review and providing confidence in outputs. © 2026 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How real-time liquidity can help treasury unlock capital and drive value
05/29/2026
How real-time liquidity can help treasury unlock capital and drive value
Treasury is entering a new phase of responsibility, one defined by continuous action rather than periodic oversight. In this episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Stephen Randall, Global Head of Liquidity Management Services at Citigroup, about how treasury is adapting to an always-on, real-time global economy and becoming more central to enterprise value creation. Stephen shares insights from Citi’s research and client experience on what differentiates high-performing treasury functions, highlighting the importance of strong fundamentals, high-quality data, automation and programmable, rules-based cash management. He explains how always-on treasury models help CFOs and treasurers respond faster to disruption, reduce operational risk and make more informed balance sheet decisions. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Understand why forecasting accuracy alone is no longer sufficient to support confident finance decision making. Recognize how treasury can enable confidence through real‑time liquidity, visibility and control. Explore how leading organizations are redesigning treasury operating models for an always‑on environment. Identify the role of real‑time liquidity and automation in reducing reliance on manual intervention. Understand how treasury’s evolving role can support resilience, agility, unlock capital and support enterprise value creation. © 2026 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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Why CFOs should recognize the hidden specialists who quietly drive success
04/30/2026
Why CFOs should recognize the hidden specialists who quietly drive success
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson is joined by Jack McCullough, President of the CFO Leadership Council, to explore how CFOs can uncover and support hidden talent within their organizations to thrive in an AI-driven world. They discuss the concept of indispensable specialists — those individuals who may not hold senior titles or be highly visible but possess unique skills that drive significant value and impact. Jack shares insights on why recognizing these key contributors are important for CFOs navigating rapid technological change and organizational complexity. The conversation highlights how AI is transforming finance roles but cannot replace the nuanced judgment, trust and crisis management that these specialists provide. Jack and Myles also explore practical strategies for CFOs to identify, nurture and reward these talents, including embracing dual career paths that allow experts to deepen their skills without necessarily moving into management roles. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Identify the specialists who deliver outsized value in your finance teams. Recognize the importance of unique skills that AI cannot replace. Implement strategies to nurture and retain indispensable talent. Assess whether current career paths support both technical experts and leaders. © 2026 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs can drive profitable growth through finance and customer focus
03/23/2026
How CFOs can drive profitable growth through finance and customer focus
In this episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Myles Corson speaks with David Homonoff, CFO at Feast & Fettle, about what it takes to lead finance in a fast-growing business where culture and customer experience are deeply intertwined. David shares how Feast & Fettle’s success stems from a simple yet powerful idea: make decisions through the lens of the customer. He explains why treating the customer as the North Star shapes nearly every decision, from pricing and expansion to how the organization thinks about retention, profitability and long-term value. Rather than chasing growth at any cost, the conversation explores how finance leaders can use their operating model to make thoughtful trade-offs as complexity increases. The episode offers an inside look at the modern CFO mindset. David reflects on why strong fundamentals are essential, but not sufficient, and why some of the most important work happens outside the spreadsheet. He talks candidly about testing new ideas, learning from experience and willingness to adjust course when something no longer makes sense. Throughout the conversation, David highlights the importance of building teams that take ownership, stay curious about technology and are prepared to navigate uncertainty, illustrating how today’s CFOs are evolving from financial stewards into true business leaders. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Understand how strong finance fundamentals and operational discipline create the foundation for sustainable, profitable growth. Discover why treating the customer as the North Star can help CFOs balance expansion, pricing and investment decisions without compromising quality or culture. Learn how embracing innovation, including AI, while leading with integrity can enable finance leaders to navigate complexity and create long‑term value. © 2026 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs can navigate industrial policy and the energy transition
02/25/2026
How CFOs can navigate industrial policy and the energy transition
In this episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Brian Tomlinson, Managing Director, ESG, Financial Accounting Advisory Services, Ernst & Young LLP, speaks with Jan Rosenow, Professor of Energy and Climate Policy at the University of Oxford, about how the global energy transition is reshaping the economic landscape for businesses. The discussion explores the growing role of industrial policy in decarbonization and how different regions are using incentives such as tax credits and subsidies to influence where clean energy technologies are developed and deployed. As economies shift from fossil fuel dependence toward electrification, companies face new considerations around energy costs, supply chain exposure and policy uncertainty. Jan shares practical insights on how organizations can approach the transition, highlighting the importance of improving efficiency first and making step-by-step investments that make financial sense. The conversation also examines how quickly markets can change and why companies that delay adaptation may face competitive risk. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Understand how industrial policy and targeted incentives can influence investment decisions and competitive positioning. Discover how shifting from fossil fuels to electrification can change cost structures, supply chain exposure and energy risk. Learn how a phased, efficiency-first approach can help organizations navigate the transition while maintaining financial discipline. © 2026 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs can connect pricing strategies to drive revenue growth
01/28/2026
How CFOs can connect pricing strategies to drive revenue growth
In this episode of The EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Riya Grover, CEO and co-founder of Sequence, about how CFOs and finance leaders can navigate revenue complexity and enhance collaboration. Riya shares her entrepreneurial journey and discusses the important role of finance in shaping revenue strategy. She highlights how identifying disconnects between pricing, revenue data and accountability can improve decision-making and business performance. The conversation explores how CFOs can leverage technology for better visibility into pricing strategies, track revenue trends and maintain pricing hygiene as organizations scale. She also discusses the impact of emerging pricing models, such as usage-based and outcome-based pricing. The discussion highlights the evolving role of finance in driving growth and the importance of collaboration between finance sales teams to effectively manage revenue and growth. Follow The EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Understand the strategic importance of pricing for CFOs and its impact on revenue management. Recognize how early involvement in pricing decisions can transform the role of finance leaders. Explore the role of data integrity and collaboration in informed financial decision-making. Learn how CFOs can leverage technology for visibility into pricing strategies and revenue trends. Identify challenges and opportunities with emerging pricing models, including usage-based pricing. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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When AI forecasts cash in real time, will treasurers finally trust the numbers?
12/15/2025
When AI forecasts cash in real time, will treasurers finally trust the numbers?
Cash flow forecasting and liquidity confidence have become defining priorities for CFOs and finance leaders, yet both remain persistent challenges across organizations. Two studies, APQC’s Cash Flow and Liquidity Management Practices Report and the , found that even with automation, AI and analytics, many finance teams may struggle to trust their source data and forecast with accuracy. In this episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Kelley Pruetz, Principal Research Leader at APQC, and Francois Holzman, EY Global Treasury and Commodities Leader, about how CFOs and treasurers can improve cash visibility and strengthen liquidity management. They discuss why forecasting remains difficult in an era of technology-enabled finance and how leading organizations can improve collaboration, data transparency and agility to make more confident decisions. Follow the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast for more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders. Find out more on . Key takeaways: Discover why cash flow forecasting remains a persistent challenge for treasurers and CFOs despite advances in automation and analytics. Explore how cross-functional collaboration can help finance and treasury teams break down silos to improve forecasting accuracy and liquidity resilience. Recognize how “transformative treasurers” can redefine value creation through mentorship, collaboration and strategic leadership. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How curiosity can transform CFO leadership
11/19/2025
How curiosity can transform CFO leadership
In this episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Simon Brown, EY Global Learning and Development Leader and co-author of The Curious Advantage. Drawing on years of research into learning, leadership and behavioral science, Simon explains how embedding curiosity into everyday practices can help finance teams evolve beyond traditional ways of working. The conversation explores how a mindset of curiosity can help CFOs lead through uncertainty and respond to emerging challenges. Through real-world examples, Simon illustrates how asking better questions, creating space for exploration and staying open to different perspectives can uncover opportunities that might otherwise be missed. The conversation reframes curiosity as a leadership behavior that fosters stronger connections across the business and supports a culture of continuous learning. Key takeaways: Explore how curiosity can help CFOs strengthen decision-making, build collaboration and foster trust. Understand how asking better questions can guide teams through complexity with greater clarity and confidence. Learn how psychological safety and a culture of experimentation can strengthen resilience and spark innovation in finance. Discover ways to embed curiosity into everyday leadership behaviors and continuous learning practices. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited ________________________________________________ Tap the FOLLOW button now to ensure you never miss the latest episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast! For more conversations with global CFOs and finance leaders: .
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How CFOs can lead finance transformation in a data-driven world
10/27/2025
How CFOs can lead finance transformation in a data-driven world
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Alex Curran, CEO of Aptitude Software, about what it takes to lead finance transformation in today’s data-rich, technology-enabled landscape. Drawing on findings from the 2025 Global Autonomous Finance Benchmark, they explore how finance teams are making progress through scalable initiatives, cross-functional collaboration and a focus on real-time insights. Alex stresses that successful transformation starts at the leadership level. She discusses how CFOs, CTOs and CIOs are aligning on priorities, breaking down silos and rethinking how technology, talent and data can come together to support strategic outcomes. She also shares how leading organizations are modernizing finance by automating manual processes, building business cases for AI adoption and shifting from a compliance mindset toward strategic partnership. As new skill sets emerge, including data science and business analytics, finance is being redefined from the ground up. Key takeaways: Learn how CFOs, CTOs and CIOs are aligning to lead transformation with shared priorities and accountability. Explore why high-performing finance teams start small, prove value early and then scale successful initiatives. Understand how clean, real-time data can help finance leaders shift from control to strategic partnership. Discover emerging skill sets that are shaping the future of finance, from data science to cross-functional collaboration. Recognize the importance of leadership alignment in driving successful finance transformation. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs can drive innovation, collaboration and trust in finance
09/29/2025
How CFOs can drive innovation, collaboration and trust in finance
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Stacey Ryan-Cornelius, who served as the CFO of Ogilvy at the time of recording and now holds the role of Global CFO at Burson. In this episode, Stacey shares how the role of CFO is evolving from financial stewardship to a more human-centered leadership approach, where influence, empathy and communication are just as important as technical expertise. She discusses how finance leaders are navigating complexity by fostering psychological safety, strengthening relationships across the business and turning data into compelling stories that drive alignment and action. Stacey also explores how technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), is helping enhance decision-making and enabling more innovative ways of working. Stacey highlights the importance of cultivating presence and leading with purpose, encouraging finance professionals to create a lasting impact that extends beyond the numbers. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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Why CFOs should embrace geopolitics and sustainability in strategy
08/25/2025
Why CFOs should embrace geopolitics and sustainability in strategy
In this episode, Brian Tomlinson, Managing Director, ESG, Financial Accounting Advisory Services, Ernst & Young LLP, speaks with Aniket Shah, Managing Director and Global Head of the Sustainability and Transition Strategy team at Jefferies. They discuss how finance leaders can navigate the growing complexity of environmental, social and governance (ESG) as it becomes increasingly integrated into strategic decision-making. Aniket explains how ESG has evolved beyond just disclosure to encompass investor expectations, business resilience and regulatory pressures. He highlights the importance of materiality, urging CFOs to focus on ESG factors that align closely with their sector, strategy and value drivers. The conversation delves into how public policy developments are influencing ESG implementation in real time, requiring finance leaders to balance long-term vision with short-term catalysts. They also explore the role of CFOs in integrating ESG into capital allocation, regulatory alignment and strategic planning, as well as how evolving stakeholder expectations are influencing decision-making. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs can harness AI to transform financial decision-making
07/29/2025
How CFOs can harness AI to transform financial decision-making
In this episode of the EY Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson speaks with Isaac Heller, CEO of Trullion, an AI-powered accounting software company. They explore the transformative role of CFOs amidst rapid technological advancements. As organizations grapple with the complexities introduced by AI in finance, Isaac shares insightful strategies for CFOs to navigate these challenges and create value. Isaac emphasizes the importance of technology and innovation in refining financial processes and enhancing decision-making capabilities. He elaborates on how CFOs can leverage data and AI to develop insights that facilitate informed decision-making and optimize operations, while also highlighting the need for high-quality data. Throughout the discussion, Isaac draws from his extensive experience in finance and accounting, offering actionable advice for both aspiring and current CFOs. He highlights the necessity for CFOs to act as the CEO's closest business partner, trusted to assist in making critical organizational decisions. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How finance leaders can understand customer behavior to create value
06/17/2025
How finance leaders can understand customer behavior to create value
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson interviews Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman of the advertising agency Ogilvy UK. Drawing on his extensive experience in behavioral economics, Rory encourages finance professionals to develop a mindset that balances certainty and opportunity. Rory explores the finance sector's demand for absolute certainty, which can often hinder innovation and impact decision-making. He advocates for a probabilistic approach to finance, where understanding potential outcomes and embracing uncertainty can lead to greater innovation and value creation. The conversation also touches on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming finance, highlighting the need for finance leaders to adapt and leverage AI to free up time for strategic thinking. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How finance leaders in mission-driven organizations can create value
06/04/2025
How finance leaders in mission-driven organizations can create value
In this episode of the EY Better Finance podcast, Myles Corson interviews Wassia Kamon, CFO of Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE). Wassia discusses how finance leaders in mission-driven organizations can create value for entrepreneurs through open communication and strategic financial planning. Wassia emphasizes that value creation for entrepreneurs should be measured not just in financial terms but also in creating long-term sustainable growth. She also elaborates on the importance of finance leaders helping entrepreneurs carry out their vision while aligning on the balance sheet. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How a strategic vision, technology and leadership can drive CFO success
05/22/2025
How a strategic vision, technology and leadership can drive CFO success
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Myles Corson interviews Michael Coombs, Executive in Residence, EY Strategy and Consulting Co., Ltd., based in Japan, to explore the evolving role of CFOs and the importance of a data-first approach in driving value creation. Leveraging his extensive global professional background, Michael emphasizes the necessity for CFOs to focus on maintaining global competitiveness and supporting sustainable business models within their organizations. Michael shares that in his view, the most effective CFOs are those who are discontented and seek to innovate, seeing their roles as opportunities to elevate the organization and embrace transformation. However, to truly drive change, CFOs should also possess strong communication skills and an ability to simplify complex data-driven insights into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How a strong network can drive founder success and investment growth
03/31/2025
How a strong network can drive founder success and investment growth
Drawing on her extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, Julia emphasizes the importance of community in driving success. She discusses how Pari Passu operates on a deal-by-deal basis, allowing smaller investments from a curated group of accredited investors, fostering collaboration and value beyond just capital. Julia highlights the role of technology in facilitating these interactions, including a mobile app designed to streamline communication within the community. She also shares insights into current investment themes, such as B2B SaaS, consumer tech, and wellness technology, while addressing the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How trust, technology and AI are shaping the role of future CFOs
02/25/2025
How trust, technology and AI are shaping the role of future CFOs
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson welcomes Aaron Levine, CFO of Prophix, to discuss the evolving role of CFOs in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. As organizations face ongoing digital disruption, driven by new technologies and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in finance, Aaron shares strategies to help CFOs navigate these challenges and deliver value. Aaron emphasizes the importance of utilizing technology and innovation to enhance financial processes and decision-making. He explains how CFOs can harness data and AI to create a single source of truth that delivers better insights, informing improved decision-making and streamlined operations. Additionally, Aaron also highlights the need for effective communication and building trust across the C-suite, as transparency and collaboration are vital for building a positive organizational culture. Throughout the conversation, Aaron draws on his extensive experience in finance and accounting, providing practical advice for aspiring and current CFOs. He explores the significance of continuous learning and professional development in attracting and retaining the best talent in finance. Listen to the episode and discover actionable insights that can shape your approach to finance leadership. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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Why effective cash management can be crucial for business success
01/28/2025
Why effective cash management can be crucial for business success
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, host Myles Corson explores cash management with Peter Kingma, EY-Parthenon Americas Working Capital Consulting Services Leader. Myles Corson interviews Peter Kingma, the EY-Parthenon Americas Working Capital Consulting Leader, to discuss the critical yet often overlooked aspect of cash management in business. Peter, drawing on his 15 years of experience at the EY organization and his recent book Cash is King, calls out the need for businesses to focus on cash flow, along with revenue and profitability. He argues that companies should prioritize all three metrics. During the conversation, Peter introduces the concept of a "cash leadership office" — an idea that instills a culture of placing cash management on an equal footing with other financial metrics. He believes that this concept is essential for finance leaders to unlock the potential for value creation and can help overcome a lack of visibility for informed decision-making. He also cites the findings of a proprietary EY resiliency index — — highlighting the connection between adept cash management and the capacity of an enterprise to be resilient to market and economic instability. Peter recommends businesses to start improving liquidity by focusing on procurement processes, enhancing billing and collections, as well as optimizing supply chain management. He also stresses the importance of leveraging existing technology before jumping too quickly onto the artificial intelligence (AI) bandwagon — advocating a back-to-basics approach that maximizes current investments. © 2025 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How Microsoft's approach to AI could shape the future of finance
12/03/2024
How Microsoft's approach to AI could shape the future of finance
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Cory Hrncirik discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing finance at Microsoft. Join host Myles Corson as he welcomes Cory Hrncirik, Modern Finance Lead at Microsoft, to discuss the transformation of Microsoft's finance function through the strategic application of artificial intelligence (AI). This episode of The EY Better Finance podcast delves into how AI is modernizing finance processes, enhancing forecasting accuracy and streamlining risk management. The conversation highlights Microsoft's journey toward innovation within its finance department, marked by the rapid adoption of Microsoft Copilot. Cory Hrncirik outlines the critical role of high-quality, structured and pre-indexed data as the cornerstone for successful AI implementation and the continuous evolution of data management practices at Microsoft. Moreover, the episode sheds light on the importance of a collaborative culture and systems thinking in achieving corporate objectives. It details Microsoft's strategic efforts to empower finance professionals as citizen developers, enabling them to leverage low code, no code tools, or partner with IT and engineering to catalyze the finance function's transformation. Insightful and forward-looking, this episode provides a glimpse into how Microsoft's strategic approach to integrating finance and technology is securing its position in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How robotics and AI can transform finance in academia
11/07/2024
How robotics and AI can transform finance in academia
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Wayne Andrews, CFO at The University of Sydney, discusses how integrating GenAI and robotics can drive transformation and enhance finance's value. Wayne Andrews, the Chief Financial Officer at The University of Sydney, shares his journey with host Myles Corson of revolutionizing the university's finance function. He navigates through the challenges of modernizing outdated systems and transforming the finance function from a purely transactional role into a key strategic partner. Wayne highlights the pivotal role of embracing innovative technologies, spotlighting the establishment of a robotics and generative AI (GenAI) center of excellence. This initiative has significantly improved service delivery and achieved remarkable cost savings. By cultivating a culture of innovation and openness to unconventional solutions, Wayne and his team have not only boosted operational efficiency but also fundamentally changed how the finance function is perceived within the academic community. This transformation has been important in elevating the finance function's strategic impact on the university's overall success. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs are mastering change in the face of new challenges
10/22/2024
How CFOs are mastering change in the face of new challenges
In the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Myles Corson hosts Jenna Fisher and Jim Lawson, co-leaders of the Global Financial Officers practice at Russell Reynolds Associates. The duo share their extensive backgrounds in finance and recruitment, setting the stage for a deep dive into the transformative role of the modern CFO. The conversation highlights the expanded scope of CFO responsibilities, from traditional fiduciary duties to strategic capital allocation and growth facilitation. Jim notes the shift towards strategy due to changing economic conditions, while Jenna points out the CFO's growing role in potentially succeeding to CEO positions, given the decline of the COO role. They also examine the importance of developing finance talent in light of automation and specialization within finance functions. The role of technology, particularly AI, was discussed as a tool for optimizing operations and preparing for future leadership roles. They emphasize the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in building effective finance teams and the positive impact of diverse perspectives on performance. Looking forward, they speculated on the future of the CFO role, suggesting that talent may increasingly come from private equity and investment banking sectors. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How serial acquirers can drive value and confidence
09/16/2024
How serial acquirers can drive value and confidence
Myles Corson hosts Hai Tran, Senior Vice President of MasterCard, and Lukas Hoebarth, Partner at EY, to discuss the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the face of economic uncertainty. The conversation centers on the important requirement for executive alignment and the strategic deployment of innovative technologies to navigate the complexities of executing mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions. Hai Tran emphasizes the importance of establishing clear integration priorities and the consequences of misalignment, which can lead to lost value. Lukas Hoebarth provides insights into the recent trends in private debt funding and the rise in M&A activity, suggesting a cautious yet opportunistic approach to investment given the macroeconomic volatility. The episode also touches on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors, the evolving roles within corporate development functions, and the significance of ESG considerations in today's regulatory environment. The guests conclude by discussing the key performance indicators (KPIs) for M&A success and the necessity of a robust talent pool and strategic acumen in the field.
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How board members can manage risk and complexity to drive success
08/14/2024
How board members can manage risk and complexity to drive success
This episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast explores the board member’s role in risk management and company structure, and the impact of AI and technology on organizational challenges. Host Myles Corson speaks with Jan Babiak, an independent board member and audit committee chair with extensive experience across various sectors and countries. The discussion begins with Babiak's recognition as one of the top 20 value-adding directors in the US. Her career journey is then explored, from her early days at the EY organization to becoming a seasoned board member. Jan has experience in areas, such as IT security, cybersecurity, regulatory and public policy, and climate change and sustainability. Jan emphasizes the importance of boards managing not just routine business risk strategies, but also being prepared for unexpected events and future challenges. She highlights the differences in risk management responsibilities and resources between public and private companies, noting that private companies may not have the same infrastructure and may need to be more agile in their approach. The conversation also touches on the influence of organizational structures on risk management, the impact of founder culture on private companies, and the challenges of balancing growth opportunities with risk mitigation. Jan shares her insights on the evolving risks associated with technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), and the need for businesses to be aware of the potential misuse of such technologies. Myles and Jan discuss the similarities and differences in board membership across various countries, with Jan noting that while the day-to-day work is largely similar, governance models and regulations can differ significantly. She also offers advice to aspiring board members, stressing the need for intentionality, breadth of experience and openness to serving on different types of boards. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs can harness the transformative power of AI in finance
06/19/2024
How CFOs can harness the transformative power of AI in finance
In this episode, we delve into the transformative role of the CFO in the rapidly evolving landscape of finance, shaped by the advent of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI). Glenn Hopper shares his insights on how the traditional responsibilities of CFOs are expanding beyond mere financial reporting to encompass strategic guidance and predictive analytics. The episode provides an understanding of how CFOs can become pivotal change agents within their organizations. It discusses the importance of embracing technology and AI to not only enhance forecasting and metrics reporting, but also to drive informed decision-making processes. The episode also explores the value of leveraging data from a variety of sources, beyond financial data, to gain a competitive edge. The episode also explores the reasons for CFOs to conduct thorough reviews of business processes across all departments and explains how identifying inefficiencies and optimizing data flows can help to improve an organization's overall performance. Plus, it offers some insights into the potential opportunities and limitations of AI in financial planning and analysis (FP&A). Finally, the episode addresses the strategic leadership skills required by CFOs in this age of digital transformation. Glenn shares insights on the need for CFOs to understand data science principles and responsibly leverage AI tools to enhance organizational efficiency. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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Why the EU Taxonomy could be a game-changer for green investments
05/15/2024
Why the EU Taxonomy could be a game-changer for green investments
Brian Tomlinson, EY Managing Director, ESG, Financial Accounting Advisory Services welcomes Evan Tylenda, Head of EMEA GS Sustain at Goldman Sachs and Nadia Humphreys, Head of Sustainable Finance Data Solutions at Bloomberg for an in-depth discussion on the EU Sustainable Taxonomy. The trio delves into how the taxonomy aims to standardize what constitutes “green” economic activities, its role in combating greenwashing, and how it influences a company's transition to sustainable practices. They share insights from the first two years of reporting under the taxonomy, highlighting its increasing adoption beyond the mandated European companies and its potential to become a market standard for defining “green” funds. With the incoming expansion of the taxonomy to include four other environmental objectives, they discuss the implications for different sectors and the anticipated shift in the sustainable finance landscape. Finally, they offer advice on leveraging the taxonomy to create a sustainability baseline, embracing voluntary reporting and maintaining transparency, which benefits companies and investors committed to understanding their green footprint and navigating the sustainable finance landscape. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official policy or position of EY or any other organization. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How customer connections, reporting and sustainability drive success
04/16/2024
How customer connections, reporting and sustainability drive success
In this episode, Lululemon executives Meghan Frank, CFO, and Alex Grieve, CAO, engage in a captivating conversation with Myles Corson. Together, they delve into their pivotal roles in driving Lululemon's success, highlighting the significance of sustainability, customer connections, and technological advancements. To kickstart the discussion, Meghan and Alex reflect on their unique experience of sharing the CFO role for a brief period, which ultimately resulted in the development of a strong and mutually beneficial relationship between them. They emphasize how open and transparent communication has played a pivotal role in their successful engagement with investors. By consistently focusing on key themes that investors are genuinely interested in, they have been able to shape their communication strategies accordingly. Recognizing the paramount importance of sustainability, Meghan and Alex proudly view it as an integral part of Lululemon's mission. They prioritize keeping investors well-informed about the company's progress in this domain, and specifically stress the crucial role of accurate reporting, including sustainability reporting. Customer loyalty is another important aspect that Meghan and Alex address during their discussion. They delve into the various programs implemented by Lululemon to nurture and maintain customer satisfaction. Moreover, they emphasize that the very essence of Lululemon's DNA lies in fostering connection and building a strong sense of community among its customers. By prioritizing these foundational principles, Lululemon continues to cultivate and strengthen its customer relationships, reinforcing loyalty and further solidifying its position in the market. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official policy or position of EY or any other organization. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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How CFOs navigate the challenges in Finance today
03/21/2024
How CFOs navigate the challenges in Finance today
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, we are joined by Deirdre Ryan, Global Finance Transformation Leader, and Andrea Gronenthal, Americas Strategic Tax Transformation Leader from the EY organization, to delve into key findings from the EY Global DNA of the CFO survey. The episode also features insights from two seasoned global executives : Joseph J. Wolk (Joe), the Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Johnson & Johnson, and Nick Priday, the CFO of Dentsu Group Inc., who were interviewed as part of the research. During the discussion, Deirdre and Andrea examine three paradoxes that CFOs confront on a daily basis: balancing short-term and long-term value, navigating the tightrope between safety and boldness, and transitioning from a traditional skill set to assuming a strategic leadership role. Enjoy this engaging exploration of the challenges and complexities faced by today's CFOs, and the multifaceted role they play in shaping the future of finance. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official policy or position of EY or any other organization. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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What sets exceptional CFOs apart: unlocking the secrets of success
02/29/2024
What sets exceptional CFOs apart: unlocking the secrets of success
In this episode of the Better Finance: CFO Insights podcast, Jack McCullough president of The CFO Leadership Council, joins host Myles Corson to explore what makes an elite CFO. In this episode of The EY Better Finance podcast, Jack and Myles dive into the world of CFOs, exploring the unique qualities that make them successful. Jack highlights that it's not just skills, but also personality traits, that can make an exceptional CFO stand out. Jack shares valuable insights on how to develop these traits and build stronger cross functional relationships. Jack emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of transparency where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and learning from mistakes. He also explains that as a CFO, it can be crucial to help everyone understands the company's goals and values. In this episode, Jack also stresses the significance of establishing a personal brand as a CFO. This brand reflects one's expertise, reputation, and values within the industry. He discusses the role of a CFO as a storyteller and provides examples on how to create narratives that resonate with specific audiences. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official policy or position of EY or any other organization. © 2024 Ernst & Young Global Limited
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