Thought Leadership | CFO & Audit Chair

Here's what four CEOs have to say about transitioning from CFO to CEO.

More than 80% of finance chiefs say their role has grown significantly in the past five years, according to survey findings published in March by leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder.

Discover the intricacies of the CFO executive search process and the differences between search and succession planning.

An Egon Zehnder survey found that seven in 10 CFOs believe they are ready to transition to the CEO role, despite the new set of challenges it presents.

Women are making significant strides in the CFO role, with nearly 19% of CFO positions in Fortune 500 and S&P 500 companies held by women in 2023, compared to just 6.3% in 2004. Part of that increase may be due in part to the fact that 82% of CFOs have seen significant shifts in their responsibilities over the past five years, according to an Egon Zehnder survey.

It’s no secret that chief financial officer roles and responsibilities have shifted over the past 10 years – but how? Read on as we share more on these shifts.

Investors are looking to companies for profitable growth and sustainability above all – and with that comes the need for a strong CFO’s vision. Learn why.

Whether you’re hiring a new CFO or evaluating your existing employee, knowing CFO strengths and weaknesses is key. Utilize this comprehensive guide for evaluation.

As your organization is faced with a CFO changeover, the need for thoughtful and strategic CFO succession planning is a must. Learn more about why and how.

CFOs are expanding their roles beyond finance, with many taking on ESG and M&A duties, according to a recent Egon Zehnder survey. Some are also handling cybersecurity, supply chain, and HR tasks. Strategic thinking, risk management, and effective communication are key skills for these broader responsibilities, says Arun Dhingra of Egon Zehnder.

Egon Zehnder Consultant James Stark emphasizes the importance of reflection for CFOs considering retirement, advising them to think about what is most important to them, not just taking the expected next step.

CFO competencies, skills and qualifications have evolved in recent years. Here’s what to look for beyond financial and technical expertise.