Welcome to CFO 4.0, where we explore the dynamic landscape of Financial Leadership in the era of Technology 4.0. I'm your host, Hannah Munro, Managing Director of itas, a pioneering Financial Transformation consultancy. In this podcast series, we unravel the intricate connection between cutting-edge technologies and the financial domain. It's more than just adopting tools; it's about cultivating the skills necessary to navigate and spearhead the transformative journey within Finance. CFO 4.0 embodies the archetype of the Financial Leader in the future — a fusion of strategic visionaries and tech-savvy innovators. As the CFO role swiftly evolves from a mere cost controller to a strategic influencer, each transition opens up novel possibilities. Tune in as we share valuable insights and guidance from inspirational CFOs and finance leaders every episode, empowering you to revolutionise your processes, people, and data. Seize the opportunities, propel your business and career forward, and lead with unwavering confidence. Join us in shaping the future of Finance — this is CFO 4.0, your guide to the Future of Finance. We’d love for you to join our community, and if you like what you hear (which I’m sure you will 😉) it would be great if you rate and share.
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 Sophia's Linkedin Learn more about Access Fertility Learn more about ACCA Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
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: Sara's Linkedin Learn more about the CFO centre Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
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: Clive’s Linkedin Learn more about ACCA Career Paths Reimagined report Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
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
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 John's Linkedin Learn more about John Lee's Associates John's Book "Get Ahead in Your New Job" Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
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 Lesley's Linkedin Learn more about The Money Confidence Academy Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
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 Tomas' Linkedin Learn more about BW Workplace Experts Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
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
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 Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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: Sylvia’s LinkedIn Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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 Oliver's LinkedIn Oliver Deacon Coaching Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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: Shaun Hayes LinkedIn Visit Shaun’s Website Shaun’s YouTube Channel Shaun’s Book: The Gray Choice Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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 Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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: Cécile’s LinkedIn Learn more about Vital Energi Vital Energi on LinkedIn Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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: Mark's LinkedIn Sign up for our CFO Briefing and Podcast newsletters Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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 Paul's LinkedIn Raise your game with Sage Intacct First 90 Days as a CFO: Ultimate Blueprint (FREE download) Sign up for our CFO Briefing and Podcast newsletters Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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: James’ LinkedIn Learn more about Kantar Chief Financial Officer UK Flagship Summit Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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: Claire's LinkedIn Falcon Windsor Monthly Reporting Webinars Book: Trust Me, I'm Listed Sign up for our CFO Briefing and Podcast newsletters Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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 Brent's LinkedIn Brent's Forbes articles Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
Send us your thoughts 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: Martin's LinkedIn Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here . Subscribe to our Podcast!
