ENG2610. Next in Line: Making the Leap to CFO (FIN, EDG)
The transition from Controller to CFO is one of the most significant—and often misunderstood—career leaps in the finance profession. While controllers excel in accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence, CFOs are expected to shape strategy, influence enterprise-wide decisions, and serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO and board. This session provides a clear, practical roadmap for finance leaders preparing to step into this expanded sphere of impact.
This session demystifies the differences between the two roles by examining how responsibilities, expectations, and measures of success shift at the executive level. Participants will explore how the CFO role extends beyond financial stewardship to include strategic planning, organizational leadership, risk navigation, and cross-functional partnership. Through this lens, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of what organizations truly need from their next CFO—and how to position themselves as that leader.
Attendees will be guided through an assessment of common gaps that can hinder the transition, including leadership presence, strategic thinking, communication with non-financial stakeholders, and influencing without authority. The discussion will highlight how controllers can begin closing these gaps long before stepping into the CFO seat by broadening their exposure beyond finance, developing stronger business acumen, and sharpening their ability to translate data into insights that drive action.
The session will also provide practical guidance on building an intentional development plan tailored to the CFO role. Panelists will share actionable strategies for cultivating executive presence, earning credibility across departments, and positioning oneself as a trusted strategic advisor. Topics will include leveraging stretch assignments, engaging in cross-functional initiatives, strengthening board-level communication, and seeking out mentors, sponsors, and coaches who can accelerate growth.
By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of what differentiates a successful controller from a successful CFO—and how to bridge that gap with purpose and confidence. Whether attendees are actively pursuing a CFO role or preparing for future opportunities, this session will equip them with insights and tools to step into the next chapter of their leadership journey with intention and impact.
