The Evolving CFO Role: Insights from Jason Pikoos

Join Paul Barnhurst, The FP&A Guy, and Glenn Hopper in this episode of Future Finance as they sit down with Jason Pikoos, Partner and CFO Advisory Leader at Connor Group. Together, they unpack how today’s Chief Financial Officers are adapting to an environment defined by heightened data analytics, new technologies like AI, and the need for strategic leadership that transcends traditional finance responsibilities.

Jason opens with an exploration of how CFOs have evolved from back-office number crunchers to forward-thinking visionaries. He highlights the critical importance of understanding data at a deeper level—beyond surface-level dashboards—so finance leaders can spot trends, optimize resource allocation, and drive long-term strategies.

Paul offers a behind-the-scenes look at finance transformation and how the CFO’s role continues to expand beyond reporting and compliance. In particular, he explains how AI and other advanced analytics tools can streamline operations, free teams from tedious tasks, and open up a new world of strategic insight.

Glenn frames the conversation around digital finance maturity, emphasizing why CFOs can no longer sit on the sidelines when it comes to automation, machine learning, and process optimization. Jason weighs in on what successful finance modernization looks like, from establishing robust controls to creating a data-savvy finance team that can speak both “spreadsheet” and “strategy.”

The discussion then dives into best practices for guiding organizations through change. Jason underscores that effective finance leaders must communicate a clear vision, invest in continuous learning for their teams, and adopt flexible processes that allow for rapid response to market and technology shifts.

Tune in to this compelling episode for practical advice on leading a high-performance finance function in a dynamic, data-driven landscape. Whether you’re a CFO, aspiring to be one, or simply eager to understand the changing face of finance, this conversation with Jason Pikoos offers valuable insights for professionals at every level.

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