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TitreDateDurée
289. CFO 4.0 Revisited | Top Tips on Finding and Getting your Perfect FD/CFO Role with Andrew MacAskill29 sept. 202600:31:10

In this episode of CFO 4.0 Revisited, Hannah Munro is joined by Andrew MacAskill, Founder of Executive Career Jump and a finance professional dedicated to helping senior leaders accelerate their careers. Together, they explore what organisations are really looking for in CFOs, how finance professionals can position themselves for new opportunities, and the practical steps finance leaders can take to future-proof their careers.


In this episode, you'll discover:
  • What organisations look for when hiring CFOs and finance leaders
  • How to identify the right company and role for your skills, ambitions, and values
  • Ways to stand out and get noticed during a job search
  • Alternative career paths beyond traditional CFO and Finance Director roles
  • Practical advice for future-proofing your finance career in a changing business environment


Links mentioned in episode


288. Strategic Investment: How CFOs Can Turn Vision into Results with Evan Campbell22 sept. 202600:41:34

In this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro speaks with Evan Campbell, author of Adapt to Win, about the often-overlooked gap between strategy and execution. From allocating resources effectively to prioritising the right initiatives and measuring success, Evan shares practical insights for finance leaders looking to maximise returns on strategic investments. The discussion explores how CFOs can create alignment across the business, improve decision-making, and drive lasting competitive advantage.


Key topics include:

  • Connecting strategy to investment decisions
  • Portfolio management techniques for modern finance teams
  • Avoiding common pitfalls in strategic execution
  • Creating accountability across the organisation
  • Making better decisions with limited resources


Links mentioned in episode:

287. The Fractional CFO Files: The Trusted Advisor with Adrian Message15 sept. 202600:54:22

In this episode of The Fractional CFO Files, Hannah Munro is joined by Adrian Message from The CFO Centre to explore what truly defines a successful fractional CFO. Drawing on years of experience supporting businesses through growth, change and uncertainty, Adrian shares why trust, adaptability and strong relationships often matter more than technical expertise alone.


In this episode, you'll learn:


  • How fractional CFOs adapt their approach to meet the unique needs of each business and build trusted relationships with founders and leadership teams.
  • Why emotional intelligence, honesty and difficult conversations are often just as important as financial expertise.
  • How CFOs can enable growth by moving beyond transactions and controls to focus on strategy, education and business improvement.
  • Practical lessons from Adrian's career, including scaling businesses, navigating financial challenges and helping finance leaders create greater impact.


Links mentioned in this episode


286. The New CFO: What Does It Really Take to Step Up Into the CFO Role? with Nicola Horton 08 sept. 202600:35:21

In this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro is joined by Nicola Horton, Principal at the CFO Centre, to explore what it really takes to step up into the CFO seat and thrive once you're there

Nicola draws on her own journey from financial controller to CFO, including leading a business turnaround in her first CFO role, as well as nine years spent coaching finance leaders through that same transition - sharing practical lessons on everything from building the right team to nurturing bank relationships that take years to earn trust.


In this episode we cover:

  • Why starting a CFO role at a new company can be easier than an internal promotion
  • The most common gap when people step up: letting go of the detail and thinking strategically
  • How to build trust with your bank long before you need their support
  • Why "the right team" matters more than almost anything else
  • How to bring a reluctant owner-manager or board on side with bigger decisions
  • Nicola's advice for making the most of your first 100 days in a new CFO role


Links mentioned:



285. CFO 4.0 Revisited: The essential mindsets you need to be successful in your new CFO role with Ash Noah01 sept. 202600:38:33

This week we're revisiting Hannah Munro's conversation with Ash Noah, VP & Managing Director of Learning, Education and Development at AICPA & CIMA, on the mindset shifts CFOs need to close the gap between what finance delivers and what the business actually needs.


This episode covers:


  • Why finance is hitting 90% on governance but only 40% on business guidance — and how to close that gap
  • Building a value creation mindset by understanding your business model, not just costs and profits
  • Why an analytics mindset and a "digital first" approach are now essential, not optional
  • How agile methodology and design thinking help CFOs become better problem solvers
  • Ash's top tips for the first 90 days in a new CFO role — and why you need to "kick the tires and smell the diesel"


Links referenced in this episode:


284. Finding your Rodman: The quiet specialists holding your company together with Jack McCullough25 août 202600:35:04

Jack McCullough, President of the CFO Leadership Council, is back on CFO 4.0 to sit with Hannah to talk about the idea that every organisation has quiet specialists - rarely high on the org chart, rarely natural leaders who are so irreplaceable that losing them would do more damage than losing a member of the C-suite.

Jack introduces his new book "The Rodman Paradox". Borrowing his title from NBA legend Dennis Rodman (a specialist who never scored much but became, by some measures, the greatest winner in basketball history)


In this conversation, Jack and Hannah dig into:


  • Why traditional org charts fail to capture who really holds a company together
  • How to spot your own "Rodmans" using organisational network analysis
  • Why promoting a Rodman is often the worst thing you can do for them (and for the business)
  • How to recognise and reward specialists who don't want titles, meetings, or management responsibility
  • Real stories from the book


Links mentioned in this episode


283.The Fractional CFO Files: How CFOs get Sales, Ops & Products on the same page with Roger Castle18 août 202600:32:59

Roger Castle is a fractional Finance Director and CFO with The CFO Centre. In this episode, Roger joins Hannah to unpack what it really takes to lead through change, from persuading a fast-growing team to accept its first-ever cost cuts, to helping SME owners turn vague ambitions into concrete, achievable growth plans. Roger shares the practical realities of working as a fractional CFO across multiple clients at once, and the mindset shift required to move from corporate scale to hands-on SME finance.

 

In this episode, they cover:

 

  • Leading a workforce through its first-ever cost-cutting exercise
  • Reading personality types to get sales, ops and product directors aligned around the numbers
  • Turning short-term-focused CEOs into long-term planners
  • Blending top-down market data with bottom-up revenue modelling
  • Managing a management buyout alongside an incumbent FD
282. CFO Revisited: Start-up CFO to COO - Funding, Scaling and Recruiting in a start-up world with Sabrina Castiglione11 août 202600:45:38

In this episode of CFO 4.0 Revisited, we're looking back at Hannah Munro's conversation with Sabrina Castiglione at the time, Chief Operating Officer at Pento, and now CFO at Omnea.

Sabrina's path into finance leadership is anything but conventional. She studied chemistry at university, spent years in financial services, then made the leap into startups as CFO at Tassie before stepping into the COO seat at Pento.


In this session, Hannah and Sabrina cover:


  • How a business's needs shift as it moves from Seed to Series A and beyond
  • What life as a startup CFO really looks like
  • Making the move from CFO to COO
  • The current landscape for startup funding
  • How the economic climate has changed what investors look for
  • People vs roles - what recruitment looks like inside a startup


Links mentioned in this episode



281. CFO Stories | The UK's Youngest CFO on Building Trust, Not Just Teams with Sophia Levell FCCA04 août 202600:34:27

In this episode of CFO Stories, Hannah is joined by Sophia Levell FCCA, CFO of Access Fertility and one of the youngest CFOs in the UK. Sophia shares the fast-tracked path that got her there and what she's learned since.


In this episode, we cover:

  • Why she dropped out of college to start her ACCA journey early
  • The mentor-shaped transition from finance operator to strategic CFO
  • Hiring for complementary skills, not personality
  • Building trust with the C-suite through constant, unfiltered communication
  • Sophia's advice for anyone stepping into their first CFO role


Links mentioned

280. CFOs CFO | How to Delegate Like a CFO: Strengths, Ownership & Fractional Support with Sara Daw28 juil. 202600:35:06

In this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro is joined by returning guest Sara Daw, CEO of The CFO Centre Group, to explore how CFOs can build the right team around them from smart delegation to bringing in a fractional "CFO's CFO" for M&A, systems work, or steady-ship support.


In this episode:


  • Why delegation should focus on outcomes, not tasks
  • How to build a team that plays to individual strengths
  • What to do when a delegated task goes wrong
  • The emerging "CFO's CFO" model and when to use it
  • Ground rules for successful peer-level fractional partnerships
  • Why the future of executive work is a team sport, not a solo act


Links mentioned in this episode:


279. How AI, Demographics and Change Are Reshaping Finance Careers with Clive Webb21 juil. 202601:00:34

In this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Clive Webb, Head of Business Management at ACCA, to discuss ACCA's report Career Paths Reimagined exploring how careers in finance are being reshaped by AI, demographics, and shifting expectations of work, and what CFOs need to do now to prepare their teams for the future.


In this episode, they cover:

  • The eight key drivers reshaping careers in accountancy and finance
  • Why the UK's ageing population and declining birth rate mean we'll all need to work longer
  • How AI and automation are shifting organisations from a "pyramid" to a "diamond" structure
  • Why curiosity is the standout skill for the human-machine era
  • The balance of technical skills vs soft skills
  • Practical advice for CFOs on developing talent pipelines and rethinking assumptions


Links mentioned:


278. CFO 4.0 Revisited | Driving Change in Finance: Unleashing the Power of Transformational Leadership with Ilana Esterrich14 juil. 202600:51:26

In this episode of CFO 4.0 Revisited, we're looking back at episode 134, where Hannah Munro was joined by Ilana Esterrich, then CFO at Planned Parenthood, now CFO & Strategic Advisor for a rich conversation on sustainable transformational leadership.

Ilana shares her wealth of knowledge and experience in driving successful organisational transformations, highlighting the critical role change management plays in achieving lasting results.


In this episode, we cover:


  • The significance of people skills in driving successful change
  • How to communicate the "why" effectively and align it with individual motivations
  • Creating a sense of one team and fostering a culture that's open to change
  • Why reducing non-value-adding activities in finance processes matters


277. First 100 Days as a CFO: The Career Strategies Every New CFO Needs to Know with John Lees07 juil. 202600:42:22

In this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Monro sits down with John Lees career strategist, coach, and author to unpack the real work behind a successful CFO transition.


John shares why your first 100 days actually begin long before day one, how to balance appearing confident with genuine curiosity, and the art of "checking in" with peers, stakeholders, and even the person on the security desk. He also digs into the people dynamics that make or break a new role: spotting enablers, navigating blockers, understanding personality at the top, and building trust across the C-suite fast.


In this episode, you'll learn:


  • The three biggest mistakes new CFOs make in their first 90 days
  • How to practise "informed curiosity" to build credibility from day one
  • Why due diligence on culture and people matters more than technical skills
  • How to navigate difficult early conversations when the numbers don't add up
  • The check-in framework for 30, 60, and 90 days and why it matters


Links mentioned in this episode


276. The Hidden Tax: How Emotion Shapes Your Financial Decisions with Lesley Thomas30 juin 202600:41:53

Financial decisions are rarely as rational as we think. In this episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Lesley Thomas, Founder of the Money Confidence Academy, to explore the hidden psychology driving the choices CFOs and finance leaders make every day.


In this episode, we cover:


  • Why financial decisions are driven more by emotion than data
  • The role your childhood relationship with money plays in your leadership style today
  • How to separate personal identity from the decisions your role demands you make
  • Why avoiding difficult conversations creates a "hidden tax" on your organisation's performance
  • How to overcome decision paralysis and know when you have enough information to act
  • The importance of building a culture where your team feels safe to share ideas and concerns
  • Lesley's Five R's framework for making clearer, faster, and more confident decisions


Links mentioned


275. Why culture beats technology in transformation with Tomas Hollingsworth23 juin 202600:46:04

CFO 4.0 is back! In this unmissable relaunch episode, Hannah Munro sits down with Tomas Hollington, Director of Technology at BW Workplace Experts, to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to lead change in a fast-growing, technology-driven business — and trust us, it's not what you'd expect.


What’s covered in this episode

  •  Why culture and trust are the real foundations of successful change 
  •  How to manage the pace of innovation without overwhelming the business 
  •  Practical ways to prioritise ideas and avoid “change for the sake of change” 
  •  The role of leadership programmes in driving behavioural and cultural shifts 
  •  How to turn sceptics into your most valuable allies in transformation 
  •  Why technology success depends more on people than the tools themselves


Links mentioned in this episode


274. CFO 4.0 Revisited | CFO Stories: How to become a data-driven CFO with Glenn Hopper16 juin 202600:54:18

When we first released this conversation, it was our 100th episode, a milestone that felt worth marking with something special. Now, 174 episodes later, it's clear why this one deserved a revisit.


Host Hannah Munro is joined by Glenn Hopper, Author of Deep Finance and now Managing Director at VAi Consulting for a discussion that's only grown more relevant with time. With over 15 years of experience in the CFO seat, Glenn brings a grounded, practical perspective on what it really means to build a data-driven finance function, whether you're leading a startup or a global enterprise.


In this episode, they explore:


  • The different levels of data maturity within an organisation — and how to honestly assess where yours sits
  • How finance teams can evolve into finance scientists, moving from reporting the past to shaping the future
  • Why real-time data has become a non-negotiable for modern finance leaders
  • The practical steps to becoming a truly data-driven organisation


273. CFO 4.0 Revisited | CFO Stories: A CFO's Guide to Navigating Risk with Isaac Strulowitz09 juin 202600:39:17

This week on the CFO 4.0 Revisited series, host Hannah Munro is joined by Isaac Strulowitz, Alternative Investments CFO, who offers his unique perspective on risk management, providing valuable insights into how CFOs can protect their firms against unforeseen challenges, a conversation that remains as timely and essential as ever.


In this episode, we cover:


  • Isaac's first-hand account of navigating the SVB collapse and the proactive steps his team took to protect investor capital.
  • Risk management strategies that have proven effective, such as creating redundancies, maintaining a robust disaster recovery plan, and evaluating all firm relationships for potential risks.
  • The delicate balance a successful CFO must strike between budget management, operational duties, and strategic oversight.
  • Isaac's concept of a "cockroach" company, one built to survive and continue functioning even after major crises.


Links mentioned in this episode



272. CFO 4.0 Revisited: From Start-up to Scaleup, a CFO's Guide to Navigating Growth with Sylvia Ionita02 juin 202600:39:37

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Originally released as episode 144 of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, this episode is part of our CFO 4.0 Revisited series — bringing back some of our most valuable conversations for a new listen.

Hannah Munro is joined by Sylvia Ionita, Finance Executive at LFG Solutions LLC, who at the time of recording was CFO at waterdrop. With hands-on experience scaling start-ups, Sylvia brings sharp, practical wisdom on what it really takes to grow a business from the ground up — the highs, the hard lessons, and everything in between.

In this episode, we cover:

  • How presenting real numbers and financial data at all levels drives awareness and accountability across the team
  • Sylvia's approach to leadership meetings, mentoring, and building genuine personal connections
  • Implementation measures to enhance profitability and maintain control during periods of rapid growth
  • How to discern which problems demand immediate action and which call for a longer-term strategic response
  • The importance of internal mentorship and fostering a culture of personal development
  • Sylvia's top tips for finance professionals stepping into the start-up world for the first time

Links mentioned:

271. CFO 4.0 Revisited: The Future of Finance: Cultivating Skills & Adapting to Change with Oliver Deacon26 mai 202600:51:20

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For this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Oliver Deacon, Executive Coach and Founder of Oliver Deacon Coaching, to explore what the future of finance leadership really looks like over the next five years.

As finance teams continue to face rapid technological change, increasing pressure to deliver insight, and evolving expectations from the wider business, technical expertise alone is no longer enough. Oliver shares why the most successful finance leaders of the future will be those who combine commercial thinking, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and strong leadership skills alongside technical capability.

What’s covered in this episode?

• Why soft skills are becoming one of the most valuable assets in finance leadership
 • The growing importance of leadership and communication across finance teams
 • How process engineering and operational thinking will shape future finance functions
 • Practical ways finance professionals can build resilience and adapt to constant change
 • Creating a culture of continuous learning within finance teams
 • How emerging technologies can help finance leaders drive greater business impact

Links mentioned in this episode

270. CFO 4.0 Revisited: The Balancing Act: Risks, Ethics, and the Lessons Learnt from Failing with Shaun Hayes19 mai 202600:47:20

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For this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Shaun Hayes, author of The Gray Choice, to explore the realities of leadership, resilience, and decision-making in high-pressure environments. 

What’s covered in this episode

  •  Why taking calculated risks is essential for long-term success 
  •  Lessons learned from major setbacks and how to recover stronger 
  •  The importance of building a trusted circle of advisors and mentors 
  •  Why happiness and fulfilment do not always come from constant growth 
  •  The role discipline and standards play in financial leadership 
  •  Insights from Shaun’s book The Gray Choice and his leadership philosophy

Links referenced in this episode:

269. CFO 4.0 Revisited: Accelerating your impact as a CFO with coaching with Catherine Clark28 avr. 202600:42:16

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For this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Catherine Clark, Lead CFO Mentor at GrowCFO and Director of Cristallum Limited, for a grounded and practical conversation on the power of mentoring in modern finance leadership.

As the role of the CFO continues to evolve beyond technical expertise, the need for strong communication, self-awareness, and leadership capability has never been greater. Catherine draws on her extensive experience to explore how mentoring provides finance leaders with something often missing in their day-to-day roles, a trusted space to step back, reflect, and grow.

What is covered in this episode

  • The difference between mentoring and coaching, and when each is most valuable
  • The soft skills finance leaders need when stepping into more senior roles
  • How to build clear, effective communication within your finance team
  • Why finance leaders must understand their wider impact across the organisation
268. CFO 4.0 Revisited: Integration, automation and finding your niche with Cécile Parker21 avr. 202600:47:11

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For this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Cécile Parker, Group CFO at Vital Energi Utilities, to explore how finance leaders can play a far more integrated and influential role across the business.

Cécile shares her journey to CFO and offers a clear view on how the function must evolve. This is not about finance sitting on the sidelines. It is about stepping forward, embedding into operations, and driving meaningful change across people, processes and sustainability.

 What’s covered in this episode

  •  Why finance leaders must stop underestimating the impact of automation
  •  How to find and define your niche as a CFO
  •  The importance of embedding finance across the wider business
  •  Building the skills and capabilities within a modern finance team
  •  Understanding and influencing finance’s role in sustainability and carbon impact 

 Links mentioned in this episode:

267. CFO 4.0 Revisited: How to make your next digital transformation project a success with Mark Lockton-Goddard14 avr. 202600:44:07

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In this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Mark Lockton‑Goddard, now Founder & CEO at embracent, to explore what successful digital transformation really looks like for finance teams.

With over 25 years’ experience across global organisations, Mark shares practical insight into how CFOs can approach transformation decisions, gain buy‑in from their teams, and avoid common pitfalls when introducing new technology and processes.

Relaunched ahead of the new financial year, this episode is a timely listen for finance leaders reviewing how prepared their finance function is for what lies ahead.

In this episode, we cover:

  • How CFOs should approach decision‑making for finance transformation
  • Gaining employee buy‑in for new systems and processes
  • Common mistakes that cause digital transformation projects to fail
  • Key focus areas when modernising finance departments
  • How finance teams are adapting to meet today’s business demands

Links mentioned in this episode:

266. CFO 4.0 Revisited: How technology can enable hybrid working for finance teams with Paul Lee07 avr. 202600:46:48

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For this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Paul Lee, Partner at Deloitte UK, to explore one of the most debated shifts in modern working life – the move to hybrid.

Drawing on his experience at Deloitte, Paul challenges the idea that there is a single “right” answer. Instead, he highlights the importance of asking better questions – around productivity, collaboration, employee expectations, and long-term business impact.

What’s covered in this episode

  • Working from home, hybrid, and returning to the office – how to assess the right approach
  • Key questions finance leaders should be asking about hybrid working models
  • The role of technology in enabling the future of work
  • How developments like 5G and WiFi 6 could reshape how and where we work

Links referenced in this episode


265. CFO 4.0 Revisited: Navigating Financial Planning in a Dynamic Business Environment with James Owen31 mars 202600:46:44

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 For this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by James Owen, Global CFO of the Profiles Division at Kantar, to explore how modern finance leaders are reshaping planning, forecasting, and decision-making in an increasingly data-driven world. 

What’s covered in this episode

  • Why market data is essential for meaningful performance benchmarking
  • How to improve communication and understanding of financial insights across the business
  • The role of Integrated Business Planning in driving better forecasts and decisions
  • Why data science is becoming a core capability within finance teams
  • How to assess finance talent beyond technical skills
  • The importance of scenario planning across ambition, realism, and prudence

Links mentioned in this episode:

264. CFO 4.0 Revisited: A CFOs Guide to Writing Annual Reports That Your Investors Actually want to Read with Claire Bodanis24 mars 202600:50:20

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For this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by Claire Bodanis, Founder and Director of Falcon Windsor and one of the UK’s leading authorities on corporate reporting. Claire shares a practical and honest view of what it really takes to produce an annual report that cuts through the noise. 

What’s covered in this episode

• The biggest challenges organisations face when producing the annual report today
 • How to create a report that is engaging, clear and valuable to investors
 • Balancing regulatory requirements with meaningful communication
 • How to handle and communicate difficult or negative news
 • Common mistakes businesses make in their annual reporting
 • What is changing in the world of corporate reporting and what it means for finance teams

Links referenced in this episode:

263. CFO 4.0 Revisited: Connecting the dots between data and insights through storytelling in finance with Brent Dykes17 mars 202600:50:12

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In this episode of CFO 4.0 Revisited, Hannah Munro reconnects with Brent Dykes, Founder and Chief Data Storyteller at AnalyticsHero, to explore one of the most important skills modern finance leaders must master – turning data into meaningful stories that drive action.

In this episode, we explore

  • What a Chief Data Storyteller actually does
  • Brent’s journey into analytics and the creation of AnalyticsHero
  • Why data storytelling is becoming essential for finance leaders
  • Practical frameworks for communicating insight across finance teams
  • How to turn financial data into compelling, decision-driving stories
  • Brent’s top tips for getting started with data storytelling in finance

Links mentioned in episode

262. CFO 4.0 Revisited: How Funding is Like Ice Cream with Martin Spiller10 mars 202600:47:38

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In this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro is joined by experienced finance leader Martin Spiller to explore what funders are really looking for in a CFO.

From common funding mistakes to the differences between start-up and scale-up investment, Martin shares practical insight on securing funding, choosing the right partners and positioning your business for sustainable growth.

  • What funders look for in a CFO
  • Common mistakes when applying for funding
  • Start-up vs scale-up funding expectations
  • Seed, Series A and Series B funding explained
  • How to find the right funding partner
  • Tips for improving your chances of securing investment

Links mentioned in this episode:

261. CFO 4.0 Revisited: Making the shift from CFO to Board with Fiona Hathorn, CEO of Women on Boards UK03 mars 202600:45:06

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To mark the return of CFO 4.0 Revisited and celebrate International Women’s Week, we’re bringing back a powerful conversation that is just as relevant today as when it first aired. In Episode 77, Hannah Munro sits down with Fiona Hathorn, CEO of Women on Boards UK, to explore what it truly takes to step into the boardroom and succeed.

Board roles are often discussed but rarely explained in practical terms. Fiona cuts through the noise, sharing clear guidance on balancing cultural fit with constructive challenge, assessing whether a board opportunity is right for you, and positioning yourself as a credible candidate in a competitive market. At a time when representation and leadership are firmly in focus, this conversation is about progression, not just celebration.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • What skills and experience boards are really looking for
  • How to build board-ready credentials before you apply
  • Where to find opportunities and how to assess them properly
  • What a typical board recruitment process involves
  • Practical tips to stand out and interview with confidence
  • How to balance fitting in with constructively challenging the status quo
260. Financial Transformation Live: New Years Resolutions for Finance03 févr. 202600:20:32

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In this special Financial Transformation Live episode, Hannah Munro sets out a clear, practical agenda for finance leaders who want 2026 to be the year transformation actually happens.

This session deliberately moves away from technology hype and focuses on the fundamentals that enable progress. Hannah makes the case that 2026 must be a people and process year, not a rushed race to automate. As the pace of change accelerates and AI becomes part of everyday working life, finance teams need the capacity, skills and foundations to respond, rather than react.

In this episode, Hannah covers

  • Why 2026 must be a people and process year, not a rushed race to automate
  • How to create real capacity in finance teams to drive change, not just survive month end
  • The risk of automating broken processes and why simplicity is the foundation of speed
  • Moving finance from hindsight to foresight through faster closes and in-month reporting
  • Using the right technology for the problem, and why AI is not always the answer
  • Building resilient, well-rounded finance teams that can adapt as the pace of change accelerates
259.CFO 4.0 Revisited: Soft Skills and the importance they have in Finance Teams with Howard Tunnicliffe27 janv. 202600:30:51

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In this third episode of the CFO 4.0 Revisited series, Hannah Munro is joined by Howard Tunnicliffe, now FP&A Director at Busuu, to revisit a conversation that remains highly relevant for modern finance leaders.

Originally recorded when Howard was Head of Finance Subscriptions at The Economist, this episode tackles a topic that still separates good finance teams from great ones: soft skills. As finance continues to move beyond pure technical delivery, Howard shares practical insight into why behaviours, communication and judgement matter just as much as numbers.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • Howard’s career journey and lessons learned across global, matrixed organisations
  • Why soft skills are critical for finance professionals looking to progress into leadership
  • How to assess the strengths and gaps within your finance team
  • The risks of ignoring soft skills in high-performing finance functions
  • Which soft skills matter most in FP&A and senior finance roles
  • Practical ways to develop these skills across your finance team
258. Pricing Without Guesswork: Using Behavioural Economics to Drive Better Decisions with Etinosa Agbonlahor20 janv. 202600:45:11

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 In this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro is joined by Etinosa Agbonlahor, CEO of Decision Alpha, to break down why pricing causes so much anxiety and how finance leaders can take control of it in a structured, evidence-based way.

Together, they explore how behavioural economics, customer insight, and disciplined iteration can turn pricing from a reactive afterthought into a strategic advantage.

In this episode, they cover

  • Why pricing is the keystone of the business and what goes wrong when it is ignored
  • The warning signs that your pricing strategy is misaligned with value
  • Common pricing mistakes, including over-reliance on competitors
  • How to research willingness to pay using both qualitative and quantitative methods
  • Applying behavioural economics to frame prices, guide choices, and improve conversion
  • Why pricing should be reviewed and refined regularly, not set and forgotten

Links mentioned:


257. The Readiness Challenge: What Project Readiness really looks like with Hannah Munro and Neil Lynchehaun13 janv. 202600:43:45

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As a follow-up to their Financial Transformation Live discussions, Hannah Munro is joined by Neil Lynchehaun, Transformation and Delivery Manager at itas, to launch The Readiness Challenge series.

In part one, they take an honest look at what project readiness really means and why so many finance transformations struggle before they even begin. Drawing on real delivery experience, this episode focuses on the most common and underestimated blocker to success team capacity and capability.

 This episode covers: 

  • What project readiness really means before starting a finance transformation
  • Why team capacity is the number one cause of delays and failed projects
  • How to assess whether your finance team genuinely has the availability to deliver change
  • Practical ways to create capacity without defaulting to hiring more people
  • The importance of having the right mix of skills influence and experience in project teams
  • How to reduce delivery risk through backfilling strategy retention planning and phased delivery

Links mentioned:

256. 2025 Highlights: Transforming Finance Conversations with Today's Finance Leaders06 janv. 202600:23:55

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In this special highlights episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro reflects on the most impactful conversations of 2025, bringing together lessons from CFOs, transformation leaders, and futurists. Drawing on insights from across the year, this episode explores what finance leaders have really learned as the role continues to evolve under pressure from growth, technology, and rising expectations.

In this episode, we reflect on

  • Why finance transformation fails when it is treated as a separate role rather than a day-to-day mindset
  • How CFOs are learning to make faster, better decisions without waiting for perfect data
  • What the explosive adoption of AI, including ChatGPT, signals for finance teams and leadership expectations
  • The practical warning signs that data integrity and control environments are no longer fit for growth
  • How CFOs can professionalise fast-growing businesses without killing the agility that made them successful
  • The realities of growth versus profit in private equity-backed organisations and what investors actually expect

This episode features highlights and perspectives from 

and offers a clear-eyed view of where finance leadership is heading next.

255. PE Backed: How to survive and succeed as a CFO in Private Equity with Omar Choucair16 déc. 202500:43:40

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In this episode, Hannah Munro sits down with Omar Choucair, CFO at Trintech, for a forthright look at life inside private equity. Omar offers a clear view of what the role truly demands and why it isn’t for the faint hearted. He discusses the expanded remit of today’s CFO, the operational intensity of PE-backed firms and the importance of pace, people and process when value creation is the end goal.

The conversation covers

  •  The sharp contrasts between public company and private equity expectations
  • What a PE-ready finance team looks like and why curiosity, stamina and tight-knit business partnerships matter more than ever 
  •  How to build trust across the business and move finance from scorekeeper to genuine strategic partner 
  • The realities of scaling fast the role of technology, automation and a modern ERP in enabling profitable growth  
  • What new and aspiring PE CFOs need to know from managing the CEO relationship to anticipating board demands

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254. First 100 Days as a CFO: From Diagnosis to Direction with Nicolas Raynaud FCCA09 déc. 202500:50:59

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In this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, recorded in partnership with ACCA, Hannah Munro is joined by Nicolas Raynaud FCCA, CFO at the Science Museum Group. Nicolas shares a frank and practical view of what it really takes to settle into a new CFO role and why those early months demand clarity, curiosity and steady judgement.

In this episode, Nicolas covers

  •  Why the first 100 days start with understanding the organisation you’re joining, not diving into delivery
  •  How to diagnose whether you’re entering a growth phase, a turnaround or a realignment
  •  The importance of preparing before day one and validating the brief you were given
  •  How to balance early stakeholder engagement with the pressure to act
  •  What to do when your findings don’t match expectations, and how to handle difficult course correction
  •  Why staying open minded, curious and willing to learn will set the tone for long term success

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253. Data first, People first: The making of a modern finance function with Matthew Robinson02 déc. 202500:44:25

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In this in-person conversation, Hannah Munro sits down with Matthew Robinson, Financial Controller at Zebra Pens, to explore the realities of running and transforming finance inside a small but ambitious business. 

This episode covers

  • Why small-business finance needs pragmatism, balance and the courage to let go of total control 
  • How Matt rebuilt finance around risk-based thinking, strong foundations and the ability to switch off at the end of the day 
  • The hard lessons of a difficult first implementation 
  • How Zebra Pens is moving towards 21st-century operations with integrated systems

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252. Financial Transformation Live: Transformation Trouble-shooters November Special25 nov. 202500:35:16

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In this Transformation Troubleshooter episode, Hannah Munro and Neil Lynchehaun tackle two real scenarios sent in by finance and operational leaders wrestling with change. They cut through the noise and give practical, experience-led guidance on managing competing priorities, handling resistance and keeping transformation efforts on track.

What the episode covers

  •  Why misaligned leadership priorities derail projects
  •  How to define ROI early so cost concerns don’t dominate later
  •  Ways to balance the natural tension between speed, control and risk
  •  How to use stakeholder management, individual conversations and senior sponsorship to regain direction
  •  What to do when a team member becomes disruptive during implementation and how to reset the room
  •  Practical facilitation tools

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251. CFO 4.0 Revisited: What are Boards looking for in a CFO? with Patrick Dunne18 nov. 202500:33:42

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In the second instalment of our CFO 4.0 Revisited series, we return to a conversation that first aired as the twentieth episode of the podcast. Hannah Munro sits down with Patrick Dunne, now an experienced chair and influential voice across business and social enterprise, to explore what boards truly expect from a modern CFO.

This episode offers a clear, direct view of boardroom dynamics and the realities of senior leadership. Patrick sets out what a strong board and CFO relationship looks like, the qualities that boards value most, and where new finance leaders often fall short. He also tackles the balance of the CEO and CFO partnership, how trust is built or lost, and whether a strained relationship can ever be repaired.

Key themes include

• The hallmarks of an effective board and CFO relationship
 • What boards genuinely want from their CFO
 • How to make a strong start with your board
 • The role and boundaries of the CEO and CFO partnership
 • Whether damaged senior relationships can be rebuilt
 • Practical guidance for new CFOs looking to set the right tone

Links mentioned

250. Beyond the Buzz: Agility, AI and the Future of Finance Tech with ACCA11 nov. 202500:56:25

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In this special live episode, recorded at the ACCA Finance Futures Conference, Hannah Munro joins Alex Falcon Huerta (ACCA) to cut through the hype and explore what it really takes to choose and implement the right finance technology.

From agility in software selection to preparing for the rise of AI, they share stories, frameworks, and practical advice to help finance leaders stay ahead of the curve.

In this episode, Hannah and Alex discuss

  • Why agility is key when selecting and assessing finance software
  • How to rethink ROI beyond time and cost, and measure real business value
  • The dangers of traditional RFPs and how to adopt a more flexible, iterative approach
  • Understanding the technology lifecycle from bleeding edge to rusting edge
  • How to future-proof your finance team with the right AI readiness and mindset
  • Managing resistance to change and building momentum for digital transformation

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249. Financial Transformation Live: Stop Shopping, Start Transforming04 nov. 202500:24:31

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In this insightful Financial Transformation Live session, Hannah Munro, Managing Director of itas Solutions, challenges the traditional approach to purchasing new technology solutions. Rather than focusing solely on procurement checklists and feature comparisons, Hannah encourages finance leaders to rethink how they approach technology selection — shifting from “shopping” to “transforming.”

Drawing on her consultancy experience, she explores how organisations can accelerate time to value, engage suppliers more effectively, and turn the buying process itself into the first step of transformation.

💡 In this episode, Hannah covers:

  • Why the traditional RFP (Request for Proposal) approach often fails to deliver transformational outcomes
  • How to design a consultative selection cycle that prioritises outcomes over features
  • The importance of sharing problem statements, goals, and process maps with suppliers to drive better recommendations
  • How to educate and engage potential partners to uncover innovation and align with your business challenges
  • Methods to evaluate technology solutions based on process efficiency, control, ROI, and real-world use cases
  • Practical steps to ensure suppliers start learning about your organisation before implementation — accelerating time to value

Links mentioned in this episode:

248. Automation in Motion: How Finance Keeps Getting Faster and Smarter with Daniel Healey28 oct. 202500:47:22

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In this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro talks with Daniel Healey, Group FD at Direct Heating Group, about building a finance function that never stands still.

Also covered in this episode:

  • From manual processes to a fully automated, scalable finance team
  • How to prioritise automation projects and prove ROI to stakeholders
  • Overcoming resistance and redefining finance’s value beyond transactions
  • Using automation to free capacity for strategic, value-add work
  •  Why continuous improvement beats perfection in transformation
  • Daniel’s practical tips for starting small and scaling smart with automation

Links mentioned:

247. CFO 4.0 Revisited: Delivering a Successful Digital Transformation Programme with Phil Raynor14 oct. 202500:35:55

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We’re rewinding to where it all began. In the very first episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, Hannah Munro sat down with digital transformation expert Phil Raynor (now Lead Delivery Manager at the UK Home Office) to unpack what makes or breaks a transformation programme — and how finance leaders can navigate change with confidence.

In this CFO 4.0 Revisited edition, we revisit the timeless lessons that still shape transformation success today. From planning and communication to leadership and culture, this conversation remains as relevant as ever for modern CFOs leading digital change.

🔑 In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The key differences between projects and programmes — and why that distinction matters
  • What defines a truly successful digital transformation
  • The most common causes of failure and how to prevent them
  • The CFO’s critical role in managing expectations and driving alignment
  • How to plan, communicate, and secure stakeholder buy-in for change
  • Why “slowing down to speed up” is the secret to long-term success

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246. Close Faster, Decide Better: Process, People, and the Right Tech with Grow CFO's Kevin Appleby07 oct. 202500:56:13

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Host Hannah Munro sits down with Kevin Appleby, host of the Grow CFO Show, to share hard-won lessons from finance transformation projects. From failed demos to faster closes, they explore how CFOs can avoid common pitfalls and deliver real value.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • How to approach system selection with scenarios and use cases, not just feature lists.
  • Why keeping solutions simple and phased prevents failure points.
  • The importance of engaging naysayers and building super users for adoption.
  • Why benefits come from people and process changes, not just technology.
  • Practical lessons for faster month-end closes and smarter procurement processes.
  • How CFOs can communicate with boards, influence decisions, and choose the right timing for go-live.

Links mentioned: 

245. Financial Transformation Live: Transformation Trouble-shooters September Special30 sept. 202500:33:26

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In this episode of Financial Transformation Live, Hannah Munro and Neil Lynchehaun tackle real-world transformation challenges submitted by finance leaders. Together, they share practical advice, frameworks, and lessons learned from years of hands-on transformation and consulting experience.

💡 Topics covered in this session include:

  • Rethinking requirements gathering – moving away from 1,000-line requirement lists and focusing on outcomes, use cases, and best practices instead of replicating
  • System selection approaches – how to frame your needs, engage vendors effectively, and avoid box-ticking RFP traps.
  • Data migration dilemmas – when to clean data before Go Live, strategies for managing messy supplier and transactional records, and the risks of “garbage in, garbage out.”
  • Simplify before you automate – why tackling root causes and streamlining processes is often more valuable than layering automation on top of inefficiency.
  • Dealing with change fatigue – overcoming eye-rolling resistance to yet another project by contextualising benefits for teams, linking change to day-to-day roles, and building compelling outcomes.
  • Practical controls and safeguards – validation techniques, duplicate supplier detection, and post-implementation clean-up strategies.

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244. CFO Stories: Acquisitions, Due Diligence & Building Trust with Charlotte Crowley 23 sept. 202500:45:31

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In this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro sits down with Charlotte Crowley, CFO at Altano, to explore her journey through finance leadership, acquisitions, and the challenges of integrating companies without losing their culture.

Charlotte shares her unique career path — from starting in advertising and PR to working in boutique firms, McKinsey, and private equity-backed businesses — and reflects on what she’s learned along the way.

🔑 In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • Charlotte’s journey from economics graduate to CFO at Altano
  • How to balance startup agility with professionalising finance processes
  • First-hand lessons from acquisitions, private equity, and integration
  • The pressures of due diligence — and how to prepare for them
  • Why people, trust, and communication matter more than just the numbers
  • Charlotte’s top advice for new and aspiring CFOs

Links mentioned: 

243. The 90-Day Finance Transformation Playbook with Hannah Munro 16 sept. 202500:28:11

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In this special solo episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro takes on a personal challenge what she would do with 90 days to transform finance. Drawing on her experience working with finance teams, Hannah breaks the journey into three clear phases: stabilisation, automation and efficiency, and forward looking acceleration.

You’ll discover practical, actionable steps you can apply in your own finance function, including

  • How to stabilise core processes in the first 30 days, including bank reconciliations, AR, AP, cash collection, reporting structures, and balance sheet checks
  • Why automation and efficiency in the next 30 days should focus on AP automation, AR solutions, payment processes, chart of accounts redesign, and month end optimisation
  • How to approach the final 30 days with a forward looking mindset, including forecasting, budgets, dashboards, and integrating wider business data
  • The importance of KPIs for measuring effectiveness across AR, AP, bank rec, and reporting
  • How to set realistic timelines for transformation without overwhelming your team
  • Why process mapping, controls, and risk management are essential foundations before scaling

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242. Resilience, Honesty & Communication: Leadership Lessons for Change Management with Susana Serrano-Davey09 sept. 202500:37:54

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In this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro is joined by returning guest Susana Serrano-Davey, seasoned finance leader and leadership mentor, to explore the people side of change. Together, they discuss how leaders can support teams through uncertainty and build a culture of resilience.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why honesty and transparency are critical in times of change.
  • How to help individuals find motivation and opportunity in transformation.
  • The importance of authentic leadership and believing in the change yourself.
  • Practical strategies for supporting overwhelmed team members.
  • How giving people both choice and voice improves engagement.
  • Tips for effective communication, from quick stand-ups to celebrating progress.

Links mentioned: 

241. Financial Transformation Live: Planning a Successful Project02 sept. 202500:51:40

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In this episode of Financial Transformation Live, host Hannah Munro shares what it really takes to deliver a successful finance system implementation. From preparing your team to managing risks and ensuring a smooth go-live, Hannah offers practical insights and lessons learned from real-world projects.

You’ll learn:

  • How to prepare your team and build urgency using the change cycle
  • The critical stages of a finance implementation – from planning to go-live
  • The role of stakeholders and how to use a RACI matrix to clarify responsibilities
  • Why proof of concept and thorough testing are key to stress-free delivery
  • Best practices for training, capacity planning, and super-user support
  • Tips to avoid common pitfalls like scope creep, poor data migration, and resistance to change

Links mentioned: 

240. AI in Finance: From Complex Workflows to Scalable AI Solutions with Tariq Munir19 août 202500:59:55

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In this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro talks with Tariq Munir, Managing Partner at Finspyr and author of Reimagine Finance, about how CFOs and finance leaders can lead successful transformation in the age of AI. 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • Why transformation should be embedded in everyday finance work, not treated as a separate role
  • How to influence change without authority and build a “transformation snowball”
  • What good governance looks like — and the pitfalls that can derail change
  • How to measure AI project success beyond ROI, including adoption and engagement
  • The role of subject matter experts in training and maintaining effective AI models
  • How to simplify workflows and manage complexity before introducing AI

Links mentioned:

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