Books To The Boardroom – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this episode, Books to the Boardroom had the pleasure of speaking with Andrew Edwards, CFO at Perfection Fresh Australia, who shared his remarkable journey from aspiring tradesman to finance leader. Andrew's career path took him through BP's global operations, where he developed the communication skills and inquisitive mindset that became his defining strengths.

We explored how Andrew navigated becoming a management accountant by 24, his philosophy of "don't avoid the risk, manage the risk," and why he believes the future of finance lies in moving beyond traditional accounting into data interpretation and business partnership. Andrew also shared practical insights on leading offshore teams, choosing the right technology, and why being uncomfortable is essential for growth.

What really struck us was Andrew's approach to developing his team - he wants people who "come into work wanting to be better today than they were yesterday." His emphasis on curiosity, understanding operations beyond the numbers, and taking on projects outside your comfort zone offers valuable guidance for anyone aspiring to senior finance roles.

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Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

"Understanding the problem puts you 50% of the way to addressing it."

In this episode of Books of the Boardroom, Season Three of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes Simon Turner, CFO and ELT member with nearly three decades of experience in finance. Simon shares insights from his unique career path, from serving on nuclear missile submarines in the Royal Navy to becoming a CFO. They discuss leadership, the importance of addressing problems head-on, the evolution of data analytics, the role of ESG in modern business, and the potential impact of AI on SMEs. Simon also offers practical advice for upcoming finance professionals and underscores the significance of integrating operational focus within the CFO role.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In the latest episode of the Boardroom Podcast's CFO Catalyst series, host Sumith welcomes Martin Gyde, an experienced CFO from New Zealand who calls himself "the Gordon Ramsay of Finance." 

Martin shares his journey from aspiring policeman to senior financial professional, influenced by his father, a former retail CEO. With his competitive nature shaped by a background in high-level rugby and tennis, Martin brings a refreshingly direct approach to financial leadership. After 25 years in CFO and CEO roles, Martin now helps struggling businesses through his consultancy, focusing on turnarounds and strategic transformation. 

He discusses his five-point framework for business success, the importance of clear communication, and how the CFO role has evolved beyond numbers to become a crucial strategic partnership. Martin also provides valuable insights on navigating cultural change, implementing AI in finance operations, addressing cybersecurity challenges, and preparing for ESG reporting requirements. 

This episode delivers practical wisdom for financial leaders operating in today's complex business environment. 

Connect with Martin at Martin@succeedadvisory.com or on LinkedIn.

Proudly sponsored by Brisca Global with production and distribution by disruptX.one.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Our guest today is Scott Richardson, CFO of Burrana.

In this episode we discuss what Scott believes makes a CFO effective. We also talk about how Accounting professionals often approach a fork in their career where they have to decide to become a manager of people, or dedicate themselves to becoming an amazing technician.

We speak about the portfolio career that is now possible for CFO’s, but also point out that one must be committed to that type of career to make it work.

A true professional and a pleasure to talk to, Scott was a fantastic guest.

This episode was co-hosted by Nathan Smith. 

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Our guest today is Brett McCallum, CEO of Virtech.

Having spent just a single day at University, Brett didn’t take the usual path. Now running a global business, Brett credits his success to being able to stay in his lane. 

We talk about being burned by business partners, dealing with failure, but also dealing with success. 

A great guest, and a fun discussion, Brett brought a great energy to the podcast. Enjoy!

This episode was co-hosted by Amanda Campbell. 

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Our guest today is Andrew Ritter, the owner of Pleiades Corporate Services. 

Andrew talks about how difficult it was at the beginning of his career to get a job at an Accounting Firm. Sometimes the perception is that you finish your studies and are guaranteed a job, this isn’t the case. 

We speak about his background working at a startup company and transitioning from an Accounting Firm to a commercial environment.

He also speaks about the importance of delivering bad news first, as well as Cashflow, Forecasting, and unique ways of adding value.

One of those ways to add value is as a company secretary. This is a seldom discussed skillset and it was enlightening to get Andrew’s perspective.

This episode was co-hosted by Nathan Smith. 

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Our guest today is Stephen Lonergan, CFO of Village National. 

In this episode, we explore a range of topics and get Stephen’s insight into how his career transpired.

We talk about leadership, and the importance of leadership pathways when deciding how to treat your staff, negotiating big deals, and team development.

We explore Stephen’s philosophies on embracing technology, and hear why his “Integrity isn’t for sale.”

This episode was co-hosted by Amanda Campbell. 

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Today’s guest is Dr Andre van Zyl, Regional Director at The CFO Centre, Queensland.

Growing up in South Africa, Dr Andre talks about how the leadership lessons he learned from his time in the military helped shape his career. 

He then speaks about his move to Australia after having built a career in another country, we speak about the adjustment period that followed.

With his work at The CFO Centre, Dr Andre explains how CFO’s can transition into a portfolio career from a corporate career and what they should expect when doing so. 

This episode's co-host is Amanda Campbell.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

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Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Today’s guest is Jason Atkins, CEO of Cake Equity.

Jason speaks about his early life and how a move to London did wonders for his career. A driven individual, it was inspiring to see how confidence and competence can take someone through a successful Accounting career. A strong resume includes a role at Mastercard.

Jason then talks about his transition from the world of Accounting to becoming a business owner and leader.

He speaks about companies he has started and takes us on the step by step journey to becoming the CEO of Cake Equity today. Listening to his story was an awesome experience.

This episode's co-host is Nathan Smith.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Today’s guest is Adam Campbell, an accomplished professional who now holds an enviable position as CFO of one of Australia's most iconic brands, Flight Centre.

This episode is a great insight into how Flight Centre has been affected by Covid-19. Adam was very forthcoming about how this has affected him personally and how he has responded to such adversity.

When talking about his journey to becoming the effective executive he is today, Adam talks extensively about the importance of culture, how important it is to understand who you are, and what it takes to be a leader. You won’t be disappointed listening to Adam’s story, as he shares his career journey with openness and transparency.

This episode's co-host was Amanda Campbell.

Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further:

🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform
📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst

Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at hello@ctcnow.co to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode.

Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!