FP&A Unlocked

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful roundtable discussion with Michael Dion on how FP&A goes beyond numbers and reports, focusing on collaboration and leveraging cutting-edge technology like generative AI to drive business success.Michael, a seasoned finance professional and senior manager at a Fortune 100 company, is passionate about storytelling and presentations, transforming traditional financial reviews into engaging, story-based approaches. As a finance leader with extensive experience in media and entertainment, his innovative use of generative AI and dedication to continuous learning set him apart as a visionary in the FP&A field.Key takeaways from this week's episode include:Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:Great FP&A emphasizes collaboration across departments, enabling informed decision-making rather than merely generating reports and numbers. This approach fosters a more integrated and strategic business environment.Future FP&A professionals need to be technically proficient with tools like Python and generative AI. These technologies are crucial for handling and processing large data sets efficiently, enhancing overall effectiveness.Implementing automation and AI can streamline FP&A processes, increasing efficiency and productivity. This allows FP&A professionals to focus on more strategic tasks, driving greater impact within their organizations.Moving from traditional, number-heavy presentations to story-based approaches that incorporate insights from various departments can make financial reviews more engaging and actionable, leading to better business outcomes.Strong relationships with business partners are essential for FP&A professionals. These relationships enable them to provide valuable support and drive strategic decisions, ultimately benefiting the entire organization.Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are critical for FP&A professionals to stay relevant. Embracing technological advancements ensures they can meet the evolving demands of the industry.Proactively providing useful insights and well-prepared reports can make life easier for business partners and managers. This approach fosters better collaboration, enhances strategic decision-making, and supports career growth for FP&A professionals.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "We need to almost be pseudo IT professionals just like how you had to learn and transition into Excel 20 years ago”-Michael Dion“AI is going to make us in some ways more technical, not less.”-Michael Dion“I'm all about efficiency, and I've been using the generative AI to teach myself Python by learning its functionality by reviewing libraries of code.”-Michael Dion“My goal going in was to just engage people and make them, dare I say, excited about finance.” -Michael DionThis discussion with Michael Dion focuses on the evolving role of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) in modern organizations. Key topics include the importance of collaboration, the integration of advanced technologies, and practical strategies for FP&A professionals to enhance their effectiveness and impact.Exciting AnnouncementI am excited to share my two new digital FP&A Courses with you FP&A Business Partnering, and Modern Excel. They just launched and I am excited to offer a 20% discount to my listeners using code PODCAST.Link to courses:  FP&A Business Partnering (thinkific.com) Modern Microsoft Excel (thinkific.com)Follow Michael:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dionmichaelc/Website - https://www.f9finance.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:[01:20] - Introduction[02:00] - Guest Introduction[03:05] - Integrating Consumer Insights[04:44] - Preparing for Technological Changes[05:30] - How technology enhances the abilities of FP&A professionals[11:30] - Media Industry Passion[15:30] - Amortization of Film Costs[18:00] - Response to F9 Finance[24:00] - Transforming Business Reviews[28:34] - Advice for Story-Based Reporting[38:00] - Career Advice[39:00] - Rapid Fire Session[41:07] - Use of Generative AI[45:00] - Business Partnership[46:14] - Contact Information of the Guest[47:00] - Conclusion

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful roundtable discussion with Julio Martinez on how mid-market companies can harness the power of technology, data, and business partnering to drive performance and accountability.Julio, a visionary in the finance world, currently serving as the CEO of Abacum. His passion for innovation and technology makes him a leading voice in transforming the finance sector. With over two decades of experience in finance, investment banking, and fintech, Julio brings unparalleled insights into the evolving landscape of FP&A.Key takeaways from this week's episode include:Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:Effective FP&A requires breaking down traditional silos in finance, fostering collaboration, empathy, and rapport to influence and persuade stakeholders across the organization.Mid-market companies face unique challenges with data volume and complexity. They require tailored solutions that provide sophisticated capabilities without the long implementation times of enterprise-level software.Clean, well-organized data is essential. Many FP&A teams still spend excessive time on data cleaning and assembly, limiting their ability to focus on strategic business partnering.The CFO's role is evolving towards a Chief Performance Officer, integrating strategy, operations, and performance management to drive accountability and execution throughout the organization.There is a growing trend for FP&A to take on revenue operations and data analytics roles, ensuring objective performance analysis and avoiding biases from other departments.Despite advancements in technology, mastery of spreadsheets remains a critical technical skill for FP&A professionals, along with knowledge of SQL and potentially Python for data modeling.Taking a sabbatical can be a powerful, life-changing experience, providing valuable personal and professional growth that can significantly impact one's career trajectory.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "FP&A will become the command center of the company's operational rhythm.”- Julio Martinez“The mid-market is a very unique, complex, sophisticated, and underserved category.”- Julio Martinez“I think professionals still need to master Excel and Google Sheets and that spreadsheet realm.”- Julio Martinez This conversation with Julio Martinez offers an in-depth look into the current and future state of FP&A, emphasizing the importance of business partnering and the transformative power of technology. As the FP&A field continues to evolve, professionals can take inspiration from Julio's journey and the innovative approaches discussed in this episode to excel in their roles.Exciting AnnouncementI am excited to share my two new digital FP&A Courses with you FP&A Business Partnering, and Modern Excel. They just launched and I am excited to offer a 20% discount to my listeners using code PODCAST.Link to courses:  FP&A Business Partnering (thinkific.com) Modern Microsoft Excel (thinkific.com)Follow Julio:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejuliomartinez/Website - https://www.abacum.io/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:[00:50] - Introduction[01:48] - Guest Introduction[03:54] - Blending of Operations in FP&A[04:47] - Guest’s Background and Career Journey[07:00] - The Value of a Sabbatical[09:12] - The Impact of Community in Microfinance[14:57] - Launching Fintech Startups and the Transition to Abacum[18:16] - Why FP&A for a Startup- Motivation from Guest[20:30] - Identifying Key Pain Points in FP&A[23:34] - Mid-Market FP&A Challenges and Opportunities[33:59] - Opportunities in Business Partnering for FP&A[36:00] - Rapid-Fire Session[39:50] - Get to Know Guest[42:22] - Conclusion

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful roundtable discussion with Nathan Kaemingk & Karan Sood on LinkedIn. In the episode, we discuss the nuances of strategic pricing and its immense impact on business profitability.Karan, a seasoned pricing professional, shares his extensive experience across various industries, emphasizing the importance of cross-functional alignment and value-based pricing.Nathan, with a unique background in mechanical engineering and forecasting, highlights the critical role of understanding costs and leveraging pricing strategies to combat inflation and optimize profits.Key takeaways from this week's episode include:Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:Effective pricing requires collaboration between finance, FP&A, and pricing teams. Transparent communication and alignment on goals are essential to ensure cohesive strategies that drive profitability.Value-based pricing is the gold standard, especially in service industries. By quantifying and communicating the value provided to customers, businesses can justify higher prices and enhance profitability.Inflation significantly affects pricing strategies. Companies must adjust prices to keep up with rising costs and maintain profit margins, making strategic pricing more critical than ever.Relying solely on cost-plus pricing can lead to missed opportunities. Understanding customer value and competitive positioning allows for more strategic price setting, rather than simply adding a margin to costs.Constructively using promotions and discounts can drive volume without eroding profit margins. Measuring and optimizing these strategies ensures they contribute positively to overall profitability.Rebates can be effective for maintaining uniform pricing across different channels and incentivizing performance. However, companies must measure and adjust rebate programs regularly to ensure they are beneficial.Accurate forecasting and aligning sales with operational capacity are crucial. Effective sales inventory and operations planning [SIOP] can significantly increase net profit margins by optimizing resource utilization and pricing strategies.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "The art of pricing goes beyond just number crunching, it goes into cross-functional alignment on what the goals are."“The 1% increase in price leads to an 11% increase in profit margins coming out of McKinsey years ago. It still holds true.”“It's amazing how easy it is to increase profits by being good at pricing.”“Pricing is going to become one of the most important things that we get good at over the next half-decade.”Exciting AnnouncementI am excited to share my two new digital FP&A Courses with you FP&A Business Partnering, and Modern Excel. They launched yesterday and I am excited to offer a 20% discount to my listeners. Use code PODCAST.Link to courses: FP&A Business Partnering (thinkific.com)Modern Microsoft Excel (thinkific.com)Follow Karan:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/soodkaran/Website - https://www.kobo.com/Follow Nathan:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathankaemingk/Website - https://www.betterforecasting.com/Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:[01:10] - Introduction[02:00] - Guest Introduction[03:00] - Misconceptions About Pricing[04:20] - The importance of Value-Based Pricing[07:00] - The Role of FP&A in Pricing[11:40] - Leveraging Digital Courses for FP&A Professionals[12:00] - Guest Backgrounds[18:40] - Impact of Inflation on Pricing[22:00] - Strategies for Competitive Markets[26:30] - Effective Rebate Strategies[31:00] - Collaboration Between Finance and Pricing Teams[36:10] - Rapid-Fire Session[58:30] - Conclusion

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful interaction with Philip Watson, for a discussion on what it takes to excel in financial planning and analysis (FP&A).Philip, the CFO of Paddle, brings a wealth of knowledge, having led FP&A at ZoomInfo through its rapid growth and IPO. He is known for his commitment to developing talent, Philip's leadership has shaped the careers of many finance professionals. Currently leading Paddle’s financial strategy, Philip is transforming how fintech companies handle complex financial operations.Key takeaways from this week's episode include:Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:Great FP&A extends beyond finance skills, encompassing the ability to communicate with stakeholders, understand the business, and manage relationships. It's about being operationally involved, translating complex financial stories, and driving business insights.While finance skills are fundamental, the future of FP&A will require advanced technical abilities. Soft skills, like communication and stakeholder management, remain crucial, but familiarity with data science and coding will become increasingly important.Emphasizing the importance of small, incremental improvements, aiming for 1% better every day. This approach, combined with rigorous measurement and process optimization, helps drive long-term business success and operational excellence.Sales compensation is a significant driver of behavior and revenue. Aligning incentives with business goals is essential to ensure that sales efforts contribute positively to the company’s financial health and strategic objectives.Implementing a detailed, three-statement forecast on a rolling 18-month basis provides valuable insights into future business performance. This process requires the right tools, experienced personnel, and a robust infrastructure to ensure accuracy and reliability.FP&A serves as an excellent training ground for becoming a CFO. Exposure to various business aspects, forecasting, and financial strategy prepares professionals for leadership roles, making FP&A a vital stepping stone in a finance career.The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Plan Buddies. Plan Buddies, where professionals meet excellence. Ready to elevate your career? Visit plan-buddies.com and become a member today. Here's a special treat. Use the promo code TheFPandAGuy, that is TheFPandAGuy for an exclusive 25% discount on your first-year membership.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "Some of the nice stuff, some of the machine learning stuff will probably take care of some of the grunt kind of modeling grunt, grinding through Excel that we have now, and it will automate some of that. It won't replace. I don't think it will replace people. It will change their job."“I think FP&A is probably the best launchpad for being a CFO. You get exposure to all the business leaders. You get exposure to all other aspects. It forces you to think ahead and not behind.”“Your job is to go translate numbers, to go communicate to the business, and be out with the business, in the meetings, in the room. It's important to be in the room.”“Sales comp is a massive driver. I mean, compensation is a massive driver of behavior.”Follow Philip:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipawatsonWebsite - https://www.paddle.comFollow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:(01:10) - Introduction(01:45) - Guest Introduction(02:00) -  Defining Great FP&A(03:25) - Future of FP&A(04:20) - Guest Background(06:04) - Scaling at ZoomInfo(18:17) - FP&A as A Launchpad for CFO(27:40) - Sales Commission Strategies(32:47) - Effective Forecasting Practices(41:49) - Rapid-Fire Session(43:20) - Guest’s Personal Insights(45:30) - Advice for FP&A Business Partners

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful interaction with Tyler Cypher, for a discussion on how generative AI is reshaping FP&A, the importance of business partnering, and optimizing cloud spend.Tyler, the founder and CEO of OpsCipher, shares his journey from Disney finance intern to leading FP&A at top cybersecurity firms. He is an expert in leveraging generative AI for strategic decision-making. Also a passionate advocate for effective business partnering and optimizing cloud spending.Key takeaways from this week's episode include:Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:Generative AI simplifies data processing, enabling FP&A teams to focus more on strategic analysis and decision-making, ultimately enhancing their value to the organization.Success in FP&A hinges on understanding business challenges, effective communication, and building trust with stakeholders. Being curious and proactive is key to growth.Effective cloud spend management requires visibility, collaboration across teams, and financial stewardship from the early stages of product development to avoid unnecessary costs.Financial operations play a critical role in managing cloud costs. Establishing a dedicated FinOps team or center of excellence can provide significant benefits.How skills from varied roles like investment banking and consulting can enhance FP&A effectiveness. Exposure to various business aspects through FP&A provides a strong foundation for leadership roles.The discussion highlights the necessity of mastering copywriting to communicate effectively and set clear expectations with stakeholders. For FP&A professionals this skill helps in selling ideas and managing business relationships successfully.The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Plan Buddies. Plan Buddies, where professionals meet excellence. Ready to elevate your career? Visit plan-buddies.com and become a member today. Here's a special treat. Use the promo code the FP&A Guy, that is TheFPandAGuy for an exclusive 25% discount on your first-year membership.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode "The people who are the most successful have a genuine curiosity about the business. It's very hard to go into those teams and try to be that analytical value-add extension if you can't understand their challenges."“If you think about software business, generally, the two biggest expenses are people and then the cost of running the software.”“FinOps as an organizational structure. So from the first part, I think, it's inherent in the word financial operations. It's a financial stewardship-driven culture in the first place.”Follow Tyler:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercyphersWebsite - http://opscipher.comFollow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:(1:20) - Introduction(01:50) - Guest Introduction(02:26) - Defining Great FP&A(05:01) - Impact of Generative AI on FP&A(06:59) - Future of FP&A with AI(13:25) - Becoming A Strategic Business Partner(17:40) - Cash Flow for Coders Newsletter(21:30) - Optimizing Cloud Spend(30:12) - Advice for Managing Cloud Spend(44:12) - Rapid-Fire Session(46:40) - Essential Skills for FP&A Professionals(47:40) - Guest’s Personal Insights.(50:42) - Advice for FP&A Business Partners

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is the Third Generation FP&A Tools Showcase. Join the Showcase and see the latest technology in FP&A planning software. Register for free today: https://www.accelevents.com/e/fpatoolsshowcaseIn today’s episode, Paul engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the awesome Jim Cook and Winnie Aoieong, for a fascinating discussion on the importance of decision-making systems, the value of trust in business partnerships, and the role of generative AI in modern FP&A.Jim Cook, former CFO of Mozilla with a rich history at Netflix and Intuit, shares his valuable insights on effective decision-making systems and the power of community building.Winnie Aoieong, VP of Business Finance at PowerSchool, discusses her experience in scaling financial operations and the critical balance of technical skills and business communication.Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:Great FP&A goes beyond data analysis to create effective decision-making systems, allowing businesses to make strategic decisions based on comprehensive insights.Building strong, trust-based relationships with business partners is essential for effective collaboration and achieving organizational goals.Discussion on harnessing the power of community and crowdsourcing can significantly enhance problem-solving and innovation within an organization.How to balance technical skills with effective communication is crucial for translating complex financial data into actionable business strategies.Adaptability to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and learning from failures. Progress over perfection drives long-term success.Utilization of generative AI for tasks like meeting summaries and action item tracking can enhance efficiency and focus on high-value activities.Leadership development within the team and creating a safe environment for challenging assumptions encourages innovation and growth.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about the importance of decision-making systems, building trust in business partnerships, and the role of generative AI in enhancing FP&A efficiency:"Great FP&A is the balance of technical skills and translating that into actionable plans to communicate with the business.""Ultimately what they're trying to do is partner with their department business unit and create excellent decision-making systems because that's what our data is eventually doing.""A relationship builds on trust. So trust comes from your capacity, your capabilities, but also your way of wanting to build that alliance with whoever you work with.""Mozilla taught me about how powerful communities are. Communities always win." "Perfection is a prison. It's about always progressing and improving because there is always room to get better." Follow Jim:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cookflixWebsite- https://www.benchboard.comFollow Winnie:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/winnie-aoieong-6852212Website- https://www.powerschool.com Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:[00:05] Introduction[01:20] Guest’s background[01:28] What Does Great FP&A Look Like?[02:13] Evolution of FP&A[02:45] Future of FP&A[10:30] Scaling a Company[12:00] Leadership Changes[16:00] Role of Finance in Business[21:32] Systems and Chart of Accounts[29:40] Safe Space for Innovation[40:52] FP&A Tools and Generative AI[42:00] Rapid Fire Questions[49:20] Get to Know Our Guests Personally

In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful interaction with Julian Castelli, for a discussion about the transformative role of FP&A and evolution from basic finance to a strategic role influencing business decisions and investor relations, highlighting his leadership experiences and the importance of core values.Julian is currently serving as a board director and board chair. With experience as a board director and operating partner many times over, Julian assists SaaS and Marketplace technology companies in areas like strategy, team development, growth execution, fundraising, executive coaching, and board governance. He began his career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs and later worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Company. Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:The competitive dynamics and funding needs of marketplace and SaaS (Software as a Service) businesses. SaaS businesses can be more capital efficient and have multiple successful players compared to winner-take-most marketplaces.The transformative power of adhering to and actively promoting company values, even in crisis, which can galvanize a team and reinforce commitment to the organization's mission and customer service.Growth-stage companies need sophisticated FP&A to meet investor expectations and aid decision-making. FP&A should influence a company's financial and strategic decisions, not just report on them.Promoting company values strengthens internal culture and aligns team actions with the organization's mission. Companies must evolve from managing daily finances to integrating broad strategic financial planning.How skills from varied roles like investment banking and consulting can enhance FP&A effectiveness. Exposure to various business aspects through FP&A provides a strong foundation for leadership roles.The discussion highlights the necessity of presenting financials in a way that aligns with investor expectations, which is often different from traditional accounting reports. The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is the Plan Buddies. Join Plan Buddies. Plan Buddies, where professionals meet excellence. This isn't just any community. It is a community run by and for planning professionals. At Plan Buddies we’re all about fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and providing mentorship among FP&A experts. Ready to elevate your career? Visit plan-buddies.com and become a member today. Here's a special treat. Use the promo code the FP&A Guy, that is TheFPandAGuy for an exclusive 25% discount on your first-year membership.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A's transition from basic finance to a strategic role, the critical importance of financial planning and analysis, and the influence of leadership and core values in navigating business challenges."So without FP&A, you can't see what's ahead of you.""But if you present a P&L like that [Natural Account Line] to an investor, you might end the meeting right there.""Unfortunately, I'm kind of shocked that the ERPs out there make it so difficult to actually produce financial reporting the way the investors want.""FP&A is not just a luxury; it's essential as you scale and begin dealing with institutional investors."Follow Julian:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliancastelli1Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.In today's episode:[01:16] Introduction[03:20] Guest’s background[05:50] How did previous experiences prepare Julian for FP&A expertise[08:35] Turning critical information into actionable reporting[11:05] How the value of FP&A goes beyond controller or bookkeeping[28:20] Guest’s view about the evolution of FP&A [30:22] Interesting facts and differences between SaaS and Marketplace[41:49] Guest’s career journey and previous experiences[48:27] Upcoming event promotion[49:56] Rapid-fire session[52:24] Guest’s personal insights.[55:27] Advice for being a better business partner [57:27] Conclusion

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is the Third Generation FP&A Tools Showcase. Join the Showcase and see the latest technology in FP&A planning software. Register for free today at https://www.accelevents.com/e/fpatoolsshowcaseIn today’s episode, Paul Barnhurst engages Trevor Anthony, for a fascinating discussion on the evolution of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and how artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping its future.Trevor, a seasoned Chief of Staff at FranConnect, excels in transforming FP&A roles into powerful business partnerships that drive organizational success. With a rich background in private equity-backed software companies, Trevor is known for his expertise in creating simple and impactful financial models, he simplifies complex financial data into actionable intelligence.Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:How AI could significantly reduce costs and streamline operational processes, positioning FP&A to be more efficient and strategically integral to businesses.The importance of mastering the skill of creating clean and straightforward financial models for FP&A professionals. By prioritizing simplicity and clarity, these models become crucial tools for delivering precise financial data for business insights.The value of experience, mentorship, and strategic thinking in the evolution of FP&A professionals. It stresses how these elements help transition from traditional analytical roles to more influential positions. How private equity (PE) impacts FP&A operations, setting high expectations for teams to act as the definitive source of truth within companies.The discussion highlights how PE firms demand thorough, detailed financial reporting and forecasts, reflecting their reliance on FP&A teams to provide thorough insights and accurate analysis to guide investment decisions and business strategies.The discussion also highlights the anticipation of a future where AI not only supports but enhances the FP&A functions across various industries.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about the strategic thinking around technology investment, the value of networking, the importance of responsiveness in professional settings, and the encouragement for community engagement:"The best FP&A groups, I've seen, have solidified themselves as a mission-critical function, not just to check the box type of group.""First and foremost, keep it simple. I think in the sales process, they demo flashy things... focus on what the tool does.""The beginning of what I'd call a business partnering relationship was when I'd sit down with the business owner and have to intimately understand their business and their financials."“Dealing with ambiguity, especially when you're working with senior leaders, they constantly vaguely describe things. You, as a professional, need to understand what that means.”“If you're like a traditional corporate FP&A person or you're just a data analyst, find those opportunities."Follow Trevor:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevoranthonyWebsite - https://www.franconnect.comFollow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Wharton Online, one of the world's leading business schools. The gateway to mastering financial planning and analysis through a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum crafted by industry experts is only a click away- https://wallstreetprep.wharton.upenn.eduIn today’s episode, Paul Barnhurst engages Christian Wattig on the journey into the evolving world of financial planning and analysis.Christian Wattig, a seasoned FP&A professional and educator. As the program director for the Wharton Online and Wall Street Prep FP&A Certificate, Christian brings a wealth of experience and innovative strategies to the table. He shares how AI and technology are transforming the field.Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:How excellent FP&A practice hinges on making solid business recommendations from detailed analysis and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of implementing and monitoring these recommendations for impactful outcomes.The discussion is on how AI and new planning tools are revolutionizing FP&A by streamlining data collection and reporting, thus allowing analysts to concentrate more on strategic analysis and business partnerships.Insights into a career that transitioned from major corporations to spearheading an FP&A education venture, sharing valuable lessons from varied professional experiences.Introduction to a new certificate program that merges technical FP&A skills with interpersonal development, designed to equip professionals with comprehensive financial planning and analysis expertise.The discussion highlights the importance of digging beyond the surface of financial data to find actionable insights and the art of crafting these insights into stories that drive strategic business decisions.The reflection on the personal gratification from teaching and mentoring in FP&A, and anticipation of the future developments in the field as technology and analytical methods advance.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A skills and making concrete, impactful business recommendations:"FP&A is at its best when you make a concrete recommendation that helps the business move forward.""With AI and not just with AI, but also with FP&A and planning tools and software, it will be possible that you don't have to pull data from lots of different sources.""When you're just taking people and walking them step by step through how I build a financial model from scratch, it's a different way of teaching."“Give them those metrics, those insights, or you can get them something that gets them at least halfway there. By doing that, you can demonstrate that you want to do more than just cutting budgets and updating forecasts.”Follow Christian:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-wattig/Website - https://wallstreetprep.wharton.upenn.edu/ Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions.  For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Abacum, the leading mid-market FP&A solution trusted by hundreds of companies to eliminate the spreadsheet struggle. https://www.abacum.ioIn today’s episode with Tom Schultz, Paul had an insightful conversation about the evolving landscape of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and its implications for fractional CFOs.Tom Schultz, founder and CFO of NextGen CFO, sheds light on the crucial skills behind successful financial analysis and the evolving role of technology in finance. From his extensive experience, Tom shares invaluable insights into transitioning from traditional FP&A roles to becoming a sought-after fractional CFO.Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:Professionals in financial planning and analysis are tasked with translating real-world events into financial data, forecasting, and modeling these numbers to plan for future outcomes strategically.The discussion concerns how advancements like AI and prebuilt dashboards might impact the depth of learning traditionally required in FP&A roles. Integrating new technologies poses challenges and opportunities for professionals in the field.The evolution of a career in finance, emphasizing the shift towards providing strategic fractional CFO consultancy.With the increasing demand for fractional CFOs, there's a spotlight on the advantageous position of FP&A professionals looking to transition into these roles.The intent is to offer a comprehensive resource for those interested in the niche, inspired by numerous informal mentorship interactions.The strategic adoption of technology in financial practices, highlighting the importance of aligning technology use with client needs and exploring the capabilities of generative AI to streamline writing and documentation processes in finance.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A and CFO insights:"A great FP&A person in my mind is someone who knows what's behind the numbers.""It's more in private companies that are slow to hire a professional CFO. I think if you're out there fundraising and I've seen pre-revenue hire a fractional CFO just because they need navigation for investors.""The young people coming into this profession, I'm concerned that they'll take that stuff for granted and learn down to the root that we learned.""If you look at the CFO in the finance department, the controller and everyone below them tend to look backward in history. The CFO tends to look forward, so the FP&A person is more forward-looking than anyone else in the finance department."Join Plan BuddiesPlan Buddies, where professionals meet excellence. This isn't just any community. It is a community run by and for planning professionals. At Plan Buddies were all about fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and providing mentorship among FP&A experts. Ready to elevate your career? Visit plan-buddies.com and become a member today. Here's a special treat. Use the promo code "TheFPandAGuy", that is the FP&A Guy for an exclusive 25% discount on your first-year membership. Follow Tom:  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-schultz-5926815Website - https://www.nextgencfo.com Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions.  For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. 

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Abacum, the leading mid-market FP&A solution trusted by hundreds of companies to eliminate the spreadsheet struggle. https://www.abacum.ioIn today’s episode, Paul sits down with Jon Laudie, to discuss integrating FP&A into strategic planning and decision-making across businesses.With Jon Laudie, CFO at Zerorez, plunge into Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) and learn from Jon's rich experience and strategic insights. From his initial roles in investment banking to his current position as CFO, Jon shares his valuable lessons.Key takeaways from this week's episode include:Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:The transition challenges and learnings involved in moving to a CFO position, including dealing with complex financial operations and integrating multiple acquisitions.FP&A functions are evolving to become more aligned with strategic finance, significantly enhancing their impact on business decision-making.Emerging technologies are streamlining FP&A processes, making them more efficient and reducing reliance on manual tasks.Strategies for FP&A professionals to become more strategic and operationally focused are discussed, including building relationships outside of finance and understanding the broader business context.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A and CFO insights:“I think great FP&A in my mind is a function that is deeply integrated into the strategic planning and the decision-making of any organization.”“We still come across things that surprise us, like, 'Oh, we didn't realize how this is or this contract existed.”Follow Jon: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonlaudieWebsite - https://www.zerorez.com Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. 

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Abacum, the leading mid-market FP&A solution trusted by hundreds of companies to eliminate the spreadsheet struggle. https://www.abacum.ioIn today’s episode, Paul engages in a conversation with Richard Tame, to discuss the essential elements that define excellent financial planning and analysis.Richard, CFO of Coeus Institute, with over 25-plus years of experience in finance across various sectors, including his significant role at Aurora, brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the evolving landscape of FP&A.Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:FP&A is rooted in having the right team. The focus is on hiring the right people with the necessary skills and ensuring they work well together.FP&A teams are not just about number crunching, they should also influence business decisions. The ability of FP&A to be involved in strategic discussions varies by company culture, from being central to decision-making to being viewed as a back-office function.FP&A professionals adapt their strategies to fit the culture of the company, whether it's a traditional corporation or a fast-paced tech startup.It is important to prepare an organization structurally and financially for potential public offerings or other major corporate transitions.Quotes:Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A mastery:"I've been in companies whereby finance has a really strong seat at the table and you know, you can't blow your nose unless finance is holding the handkerchief. Then I've been in companies where finance is seen as an inconvenience at best.""You have to make the relationships not about you. You're there to partner with the business, and invariably the business knows more about the business. You need to have a relationship such that you can influence them. You're serving them."We had built the company in a way that we would have expected to go public at some point, and one of the things that I'd seen at Lyft, for example, I joined Lyft the day after the IPO, and it became clear that perhaps they hadn't built the infrastructure in the way that they could of to make life easier and that was very messy."Follow Richard:  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardtameWebsite - https://coeus.institute Follow Paul: Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions.  For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details. 

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Abacum, the leading mid-market FP&A solution trusted by hundreds of companies to eliminate the spreadsheet struggle. https://www.abacum.ioIn today’s episode, Paul engages in a conversation with Carl Seidman to discuss why mastering presentation skills, and understanding the needs of the audience is crucial for excelling in your FP&A career.Carl is a premier FP&A and Fractional CFO expert, providing financial advisory and leadership development services to top companies including Deloitte, Verizon, and Walmart. Carl is known for his impactful training programs and advisory work that drive success in financial planning and analysis.Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:In FP&A, the ability to distill complex information into a concise, impactful message is paramount. It's not about how much you know, but what you can communicate effectively.The ability to distill complex information into a concise, impactful message is paramount. It's not about how much you know, but what you can communicate effectively.FP&A isn't just about numbers, it's about storytelling with data, painting a vivid picture of the financial landscape that guides strategic decisions and drives organizational successAnticipating potential disruptions or changes in the business environment is a fundamental aspect of FP&A. By identifying risks and developing strategies to mitigate them, FP&A professionals can help the organization stay ahead and adapt effectively.Quotes: :Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A and product working together effectively:"You're not going to go to a nice restaurant and pay a lot of money for a delicious dish, and then have it be delivered in a greasy brown paper bag. Right. So the deliverable matters a whole lot. It can actually significantly dismiss the credibility or value of everything that came up before at that point in time.""I think that Great FP&A looks like a team of people who are equipped, from a technical standpoint, to be able to execute the kinds of requests that are being asked of them."“The demands in business, the increasingly fast-moving environment, competition, the risks of getting some of this planning wrong are pushing the need of FP&A to be a whole lot more proactive, a lot more agile, a lot more well rounded and thinking instead of just being about financial planning and reporting."Follow Carl: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlseidmanWebsite - https://seidmanfinancial.comFollow Paul:Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguyFor CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

Welcome to this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, a podcast where we explore the currency state of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and the future of business operations. Hosted by Paul Barnhurst, also known as the FP&A Guy, this episode is sponsored by Abacum, the leading mid-market FP&A solution. This week, we're diving into the crucial relationship between FP&A and product management, featuring insights from three distinguished guests: Dara Goroff, Navya Rehani Gupta, and Urvi Kapadia.This special episode focuses on the synergy between FP&A and product management, addressing the essential qualities of a fruitful partnership that drives business growth and product success.A little about our guests:Dara Goroff: Specializes in product management within the automotive space, currently leading initiatives at I-CAR to standardize collision repair education.Navya Rehani Gupta: Chief Product Officer at Peek, with a rich background in engineering, finance, and high-growth startups.Urvi Kapadia: FP&A Manager at Netdocuments, bringing an accounting perspective to tech and product finance, with experience in various industries including manufacturing.Expect to Learn:The Art of Possibility: Understanding how FP&A can support product management through the lens of future potential, not just immediate financials.Customer-Centric Financial Planning: The importance of FP&A professionals familiarizing themselves with customer needs and product value propositions.Strategic Alignment and Empathy: Both teams striving for mutual understanding and alignment on business objectives to ensure cohesive movement towards shared goals.Analytical Collaboration: Leveraging analytical skills in both domains to iterate product features and pricing strategies that align with market demands and financial realities.Early Involvement and Transparency: The significance of involving FP&A in product planning stages for better financial planning and risk management.This episode promises a comprehensive look into how FP&A and product management can collaborate more effectively, emphasizing strategic alignment, empathy, and a shared vision for the future. Whether you're deeply embedded in FP&A, just beginning your journey, or part of a product team, these insights will guide you in fostering stronger, more productive relationships across these critical business functions.Some Insightful quotes:On Strategic Partnership:“True excellence in FP&A comes from not just understanding the numbers, but from understanding the story behind the numbers. It's about being a strategic partner who can translate data into actionable insights." - This highlights the evolving role of FP&A professionals from number crunchers to strategic advisors who can guide decision-making processes.On Collaboration with Product Management:"The magic happens when FP&A and product management see the art of the possible together. It’s not just about balancing the books; it’s about understanding and investing in the future of the product." - This quote encapsulates the importance of collaboration between FP&A and product teams, emphasizing a shared vision for innovation and growth.On Analytical Prowess:"An FP&A professional’s strength lies in their ability to see beyond the immediate financials to the broader business implications. It’s about connecting the dots in ways that others haven’t yet seen." - This quote reflects the analytical prowess required in FP&A, highlighting the need to provide insights that drive forward-thinking strategies.On the Importance of Customer Understanding:"FP&A isn't just about internal metrics and forecasts; it's about deeply understanding the market and customer needs. Our financial planning must align with delivering value to our customers." - This underscores the necessity for FP&A professionals to have a customer-centric approach, ensuring that financial plans are always aligned with customer value.On Empathy and Alignment:"Effective FP&A requires empathy towards the teams we partner with. Understanding their challenges and aligning on common goals is essential for moving the business in the right direction together." - This quote highlights the soft skills needed in FP&A, particularly the importance of empathy and alignment with other departments to achieve shared business objectives.Abacum is the leading mid-market FP&A solution trusted by hundreds of companies to eliminate the spreadsheet struggle. Visit Abacum.io today and multiply the impact of your finance team.Go to https://earmarkcpe.com, download the app, take the quiz and you can receive CPE credit.Checkout Our Amazing Guests:Dara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dara-goroff-pmp-0228691Navya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/navyarehani/ Urvi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/urvi-kapadia-fpna/Follow Paul:Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy/

FP&A Tomorrow is where we discuss what FP&A looks like today and help shape what it should look like tomorrow by interviewing the best and brightest people in FP&A globally. Go to https://earmarkcpe.com, download the app, take the quiz and you can receive CPE credit.Follow Paul:Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy/TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thefpandaguyYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376