FIN2603. What Today’s CFO Needs from the Finance Function: A Candid Perspective

In today's complex business environment, CFOs need their finance teams to be more than accurate reporters—they need strategic partners who can navigate uncertainty and drive business performance. Join William Washington, Global CFO of Baker McKenzie, for a candid conversation about what he expects from his finance organization in the current economic climate.

This fireside chat will focus on the critical capabilities and mindset that finance professionals need to deliver real value to their organizations today. William will share his perspective on the most pressing challenges facing businesses, how finance can respond to these challenges, and the specific skills that make finance professionals indispensable to C-suite decision making.

The discussion will address current economic conditions, the importance of forward-looking analytics and scenario planning, and how finance teams can become true business partners. William will also discuss the skills gap in finance and practical approaches to upskilling and career development in today's demanding environment.

Whether you're in FP&A, accounting, controlling, or finance leadership, you'll gain direct insights from a sitting CFO on how to align your work with business priorities and position yourself for success in the modern finance function.

Learning Objectives:

• Select approaches to become a more effective business partner and strategic contributor.
• Analyze the key competencies and capabilities that drive value for modern finance professionals.
• Identify what today's CFOs need most from their finance teams in the current business environment.