GrowCFO Show

Kevin Appleby
  • 5.0 (9)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED FORTNIGHTLY
GrowCFO Show

Where Finance Leaders Grow Together

  1. 21 HR AGO

    #210 Gen Z in Finance: Why Onboarding and Development Programs Must Evolve to Retain Top Talent with Marlo Lyons, C-Suite Coach and HR Business Partner

    #210 Gen Z in Finance: Why Onboarding and Development Programs Must Evolve to Retain Top Talent with Marlo Lyons https://open.spotify.com/episode/55t2MygtVV9SBM2StJ2bTe As the workforce continues to evolve, the emergence of Generation Z (Gen Z) has brought about a significant shift in the expectations and priorities of young professionals. In the finance industry, where the need for skilled and engaged talent is paramount, understanding and adapting to the unique characteristics of Gen Z has become a critical imperative for organizations. This podcast episode with Marlo Lyons, a C-Suite Coach and HR Business Partner, delves into the nuances of managing and retaining Gen Z employees, highlighting the importance of revamping onboarding and development programs to meet their evolving needs.The discussion underscores the importance of recognizing the distinct values and preferences of Gen Z, who place a strong emphasis on work-life balance, corporate social responsibility, and continuous learning and growth. As finance leaders grapple with the challenge of attracting and retaining top talent, this episode provides valuable insights into the strategies and approaches that can help organizations stay ahead of the curve and foster a thriving, engaged workforce. Key topics covered:  * Understanding the characteristics of Gen Z and their focus on work-life balance, corporate responsibility, and continuous learning * Challenges faced by older generations in managing and communicating effectively with Gen Z employees * The need to shift the interview process from competency-based to needs-based to better understand and accommodate Gen Z's aspirations * The role of technology and Gen Z's tech-savvy nature in driving innovation and transformation within finance organizations * The importance of aligning corporate mission, values, and sustainability efforts with the expectations of Gen Z * The significance of transparent communication, even when discussing confidential information, to build trust and engagement * The impact of remote work and flexible arrangements on fostering creativity and work-life balance for Gen Z https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eWNzZ0B8TU Links * Marlo Lyons on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:01:04 - Marlo Lyons discusses the characteristics of Gen Z and their focus on work-life balance * 0:02:49 - Challenges faced by older generations in managing and communicating with Gen Z employees * 0:06:21 - The need to shift the interview process to better understand and accommodate Gen Z's aspirations * 0:07:10 - The role of technology and Gen Z's tech-savvy nature in driving innovation and transformation * 0:11:44 - The importance of aligning corporate mission, values,

    30 min

  2. 12 NOV

    #209 Upskilling for Tomorrow: The Advisory-Driven Evolution of Accounting with Roger Knecht, President Universal Accounting & Podcast Host “Building the Premier Accounting Firm”

    #209 Upskilling for Tomorrow: The Advisory-Driven Evolution of Accounting with Roger Knecht https://open.spotify.com/episode/2k4TLteEXRIcFInGhqfaJX As the accounting profession navigates the shifting landscape of compliance-driven services and the growing demand for strategic advisory, the need for upskilling has become paramount. Roger Knecht, the President of Universal Accounting and host of the "Building the Premier Accounting Firm" podcast, shares his insights on this critical transformation. In this insightful discussion, Roger and Kevin, explore the evolving role of the modern accounting professional. They delve into the commoditization of traditional services, the rise of CFO and advisory offerings, and the essential skills required to thrive in this new era. Knecht, a seasoned industry veteran with over 25 years of experience, provides a unique perspective on the changing dynamics within the accounting profession. The conversation highlights the importance of formalizing and pricing advisory services effectively, as opposed to offering them as an add-on to compliance-focused work. This shift in mindset and service delivery is crucial in ensuring that accounting professionals can meet the growing demands of their clients and remain competitive in the market. Knecht also emphasizes the need for accounting professionals to develop strong interpersonal skills, a non-judgmental approach, and the ability to ask the right questions to guide clients towards their own solutions, fostering trust and delivering meaningful value. Key topics covered:  * Roger Knecht's background as a podcaster and his journey at Universal Accounting * The distinction between compliance-focused services and the value-added advisory role * The importance of formalizing and pricing advisory services effectively * The client's perspective and the benefits of a one-stop shop for accounting services * The interpersonal skills and mindset shift required for successful advisory engagements * The impact of AI on the accounting profession and the need for accountants to become "prompters" * The future outlook for the accounting industry and the role of human advisors in an AI-driven landscape https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjh74LPhX0w&t=393s Links * Roger Knecht on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 00:00:11 - Introduction of Roger Knecht and the Grow CFO Show * 00:00:44 - Roger Knecht's background and interests * 00:01:33 - Roger's journey into podcasting * 00:03:59 - Roger's 25-year tenure at Universal Accounting

    42 min

  3. 5 NOV

    #208 Preventing ERP Project Failures: The Critical Role of Digital Adoption Platforms with Krishna Dunthoori, Founder and CEO, Apty

    #208 Preventing ERP Project Failures: The Critical Role of Digital Adoption Platforms with Krishna Dunthoori https://open.spotify.com/episode/24N3pSvN3DJjXBCCQ3r4aO Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are mission-critical investments for large organizations, yet studies show that over 50% of ERP implementations fail to deliver the expected benefits. This staggering failure rate represents a significant waste of resources and a missed opportunity for companies to streamline operations and gain a competitive edge. In this episode of the Grow CFO Show, Krishna Dunthoori discusses the key factors behind ERP implementation challenges and how digital adoption platforms can be the solution. Krishna Dunthoori is Founder and CEO of Apty. After growing up in India, Krishna completed his undergraduate in computer applications, and finished his master’s in computer science in Germany. He then traveled to New York, Silicon Valley, and eventually Dallas, where he finally decided to build roots. Prior to founding Apty, Krishna worked as a principal architect and consulted for Fortune 500 companies implementing software tech stacks. Apty is a software value realization platform (also often referred to as a digital adoption platform, or DAP) that companies purchase along with major enterprise software packages to ensure better user adoption and ROI from their investments. Most digital transformations fail. As a global entrepreneur and former software implementation consultant for Fortune 500 companies, Krishna knows that a digital initiative doesn’t end after a platform goes live, and there are a lot of pitfalls on the way to rapid and successful adoption, which he discussed in his article titled: “Securing the ROI Horizon - How DAPs Translate ERP Investments Into Gains.” Krishna explains that the primary reasons for ERP failures often stem from human psychology and resistance to change. Employees accustomed to familiar processes can be reluctant to adapt to the complexity of new systems, leading to low user adoption and engagement. Traditional training methods, while well-intentioned, are typically one-time events that fail to provide the ongoing support and personalized guidance users require to effectively leverage the ERP's capabilities. Key topics covered:  * The high failure rate of ERP implementations and the associated costs * The role of human psychology and resistance to change in ERP adoption challenges * Limitations of traditional training methods in driving sustained user engagement * How digital adoption platforms like Apty can provide personalized, in-app guidance and support * The importance of measuring and improving business outcomes, not just implementing technology * Apty's ideal customer profile: large enterprises with over 1,000 employees using complex software https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIkdirtE9Pc Links * Krishna Dunthoori on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby ona href="https://www.linkedin.

    40 min

  4. 29 OCT

    #207 Authentic Personal Branding: Empowering Finance Professionals to Lead with Confidence with Susana Serrano-Davey, GrowCFO Mentor

    #207 Authentic Personal Branding: Empowering Finance Professionals to Lead with Confidence with Susana Serrano-Davey https://open.spotify.com/episode/3INMaL2iT2ikuMnrnGMXbY Cultivating a strong personal brand is essential for finance leaders seeking to maximize their impact and fulfilment in the workplace. In this insightful discussion, GrowCFO Mentor Susana Serrano-Davey shares her expertise on how finance professionals can unlock greater confidence and career satisfaction by embracing their authentic selves. Susana emphasizes that personal branding is not about creating a facade, but rather about uncovering and communicating one's unique strengths, motivations, and qualities. The key highlights of this session include strategies for self-discovery, effective personal brand communication, and aligning professional choices with one's true passions and superpowers. Key topics covered:  * The importance of self-reflection to understand your superpowers and what truly inspires you, rather than just chasing prestigious job titles. * Strategies for effectively communicating your personal brand, such as providing specific, substance-backed examples rather than broad statements. * The role of appropriate attire in enhancing your confidence and professional presence. * Balancing your strengths and weaknesses, and acknowledging both to build trust and credibility. * The value of preparation and authenticity when presenting yourself, whether in interviews or other professional settings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntKdF6OrDtU Links * Susana Serrano-Davey on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:02:37 - Susana explains the importance of discovering your authentic self and aligning your personal brand with your true motivations and strengths. * 0:07:04 - Discussion on the value of understanding and leveraging your unique strengths and superpowers. * 0:12:55 - Susana shares her personal experience of feeling trapped in a role that didn't align with her free-spirited nature. * 0:19:07 - Emphasis on effectively communicating your personal brand through specific, evidence-backed examples. * 0:26:49 - The role of appropriate attire in enhancing confidence and professional presence. Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favorite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network.

    33 min

  5. 22 OCT

    #206 Designing a Happier Career in Finance: Unlocking Your Superpowers with Lucia Knight, Midlife Career Design Consultant & Co-Creator, The Fierce Emporium

    #206 Designing a Happier Career in Finance: Unlocking Your Superpowers with Lucia Knight https://open.spotify.com/episode/5tlIj233qNruLyGk2rUbZA Designing a happier, more fulfilling career is a critical concern for finance professionals navigating the challenges of linear career paths and feeling stuck in mid-level roles. In this episode, Lucia Knight, a Midlife Career Design Consultant and Co-Creator of The Fierce Emporium, shares her expertise on how finance leaders can intentionally craft careers that align with their unique strengths and interests, leading to greater job satisfaction and long-term career success. Many finance professionals, despite their impressive qualifications and experience, find themselves dissatisfied with their work, with studies showing that less than 50% of their time is spent on tasks they truly enjoy. This episode explores strategies to help these individuals break free from the constraints of traditional career trajectories and design roles that energize and inspire them. Key topics covered include: * Lucia's personal journey from a "career coma" in financial recruitment to retraining as an occupational psychologist and uncovering the secrets of happier work. * The importance of identifying and leveraging one's "superpowers" - activities that are deeply satisfying, energizing, and unique to the individual. * Strategies for uncovering these superpowers, such as the 4-piece paper exercise to reflect on past work experiences. * Aligning superpowers with problems that are genuinely interesting and valuable to others, rather than just moving to a different company or sector. * The significance of strategic career planning, avoiding the "shiny object syndrome," and ensuring alignment between personal values and the organization's culture. * Resources provided, including Lucia's website midlifeunstuck.com, to help finance professionals design their ideal careers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IR26BGTXFK4 Links * Lucia Knight on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:01:01 - Lucia Knight's introduction and background in financial recruitment * 0:01:23 - Lucia's experience of a "career coma" and the realization that she hadn't learned anything new in years * 0:04:38 - The concept of "happy work" and the importance of finding deep satisfaction in one's work * 0:05:44 - Challenges finance professionals face in linear career paths and feeling stuck at mid-level roles * 0:09:46 - The importance of enjoying at least 75% of one's work time to feel satisfied * 0:10:47 - Identifying and leveraging unique "superpowers" - activities one loves, does easily, and that energize them * 0:13:38 - Examples of finance superpowers,

    34 min

  6. 15 OCT

    #205 Amplify your personal and social impact with Catherine Marks, GrowCFO Mentor and Alice Clementi, Co-Founder, Charterpath

    #205 Amplify your personal and social impact with Catherine Marks and Alice Clementi https://open.spotify.com/episode/2NTyMBWk0soOQsDm1yYhYg Amplifying personal and social impact is a crucial aspect of effective leadership in today's business landscape. In this episode of The GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby delves into this topic with two esteemed guests: Catherine Marks, Finance Team Training Director, GrowCFO, and Alice Clementi, Co-Founder of Charterpath. The discussion centers around the importance of skills-based volunteering and the mutual benefits it can bring to both finance professionals and the nonprofit sector. Catherine Marks, who is also pursuing a master's degree in philanthropy, shares her insights on the multidimensional nature of impact and the role of intentional leadership. Alice Clementi, drawing from her own experience of volunteering and co-founding Charterpath, highlights the challenges faced by charities in finding skilled volunteers and the transformative impact that finance professionals can have. Key topics covered include: * The definition and importance of personal and social impact in the corporate finance world * The concept of skills-based volunteering and its advantages for both individuals and charities * The challenges and opportunities in aligning finance professionals with the right volunteering opportunities * The "Leading with Impact" partnership between GrowCFO and Charterpath, which aims to amplify the impact of finance leaders * Practical advice for individuals interested in getting involved in volunteering and the benefits it can bring * The role of corporate support in enhancing the impact of skills-based volunteering https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wr1JvHMLVSQ Links * Catherine Marks on LinkedIn  * Alice Clementi on LinkedIn  * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:00:11 Introduction to the podcast and the guests * 0:00:53 Alice Clementi's background and journey to co-founding Charterpath * 0:03:54 Catherine Marks' involvement in the nonprofit sector and collaboration with Charterpath * 0:06:57 Catherine Marks' perspective on the definition and importance of impact * 0:10:02 The concept of skills-based volunteering and its advantages * 0:13:01 The benefits of volunteering for individuals * 0:19:27 Details on the "Leading with Impact" partnership between GrowCFO and Charterpath * 0:21:43 How the "Leading with Impact" program works in practice * 0:25:14 Importance of aligning volunteering with personal passions * 0:27:45 How corporates can get involved in the "Leading with Impact" program

    32 min

  7. 8 OCT

    #204 Powering the Future: Finance’s Role in the Energy Transition with Nicolas Payen, Former CEO, Positive Energy Ltd

    #204 Powering the Future: Finance’s Role in the Energy Transition with Nicolas Payen https://open.spotify.com/episode/3mVyLN3O1EEfDpiyFMm8UQ In this episode of the Grow CFO Show, host Kevin Appleby welcomes Nicolas Payen, the former CEO of Positive Energy Ltd, a climate FinTech company focused on renewable energy project financing. Payen brings a wealth of experience from his 15-year career in the energy industry, including his time at Schneider Electric, where he led an innovative IoT startup within the organization. Payen delves into the ongoing energy transition, highlighting the significant scale and pace of the shift from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources across regions such as the US, Europe, China, and India. He emphasizes the crucial role of government policies and incentives in driving this transformation, citing examples like the Inflation Reduction Act in the US and the EU's renewable energy directives. Payen also explores the financial and investment implications of the energy transition, underscoring the importance of the CFO's role in enabling and managing the strategic decisions required to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. Furthermore, Payen discusses the impact of the energy transition on talent recruitment and retention, particularly among younger generations who prioritize working for companies with strong sustainability practices. He shares compelling statistics demonstrating the preference of Generation Z for organizations with a green footprint, underscoring the need for effective communication and alignment between a company's financial and sustainability goals. Key topics covered include: * Nicolas Payen's background in the energy industry, including his experience at Schneider Electric and as an entrepreneur * The energy transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources * The scale and pace of the energy transition, with a focus on developments in the US, Europe, China, and India * The role of government policies and incentives in driving the energy transition * The financial and investment implications of the energy transition for companies and investors * The importance of the CFO's role in enabling and managing the energy transition for their organization * The impact of the energy transition on talent recruitment and retention https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3zKtG0SCGY Links * Nicolas Payen on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:00:12 - Introduction to the topic of energy transition and Nicolas Payen's background * 0:01:06 - Nicolas Payen's background in the energy industry, including his experience at Schneider Electric

    41 min

  8. 1 OCT

    #203 Counting More Than Cash: Can CFOs Handle Human Value? with Arjan Udding, Director at Impact Institute and Werner Schouten, Director, Impact Economy Foundation

    #203 Counting More Than Cash: Can CFOs Handle Human Value? with Arjan Udding and Werner Schouten https://open.spotify.com/episode/4XDwgSdG36iRyx8uhedCK4 In this episode of the GrowCFO Show, host Kevin Appleby engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Arjan Udding, Director Impact Institute, and Werner Schouten, Director Impact Economy Foundation. The conversation centres around the evolving role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in the realm of sustainability. The guests make a compelling case for the CFO to transition into a Chief Value Officer (CVO) role, emphasizing the need to balance the traditional focus on financial value with equal consideration for social, human, and natural value creation. They delve into the importance of impact accounting, a methodology that quantifies non-financial value and integrates it with financial metrics. Arjan and Werner share examples of European institutions, such as Rabobank and Triodos, that have successfully adopted impact accounting to inform their decision-making and long-term investment strategies. Throughout the discussion, the speakers highlight the need for a harmonized, accessible language for impact reporting. This, they argue, is crucial for driving sustainable business practices and investment decisions across organizations of all sizes, as it enables a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors that shape a company's long-term viability and societal impact. Key topics covered include: * Introduction and background of the guests, Arjan and Werner * Debate on whether the finance leader should be called a CFO or CVO * Role of financial metrics in sustainability and the need to expand them * Integration of financial and non-financial metrics through impact accounting * Examples of companies adopting impact accounting * Challenges and opportunities in implementing impact accounting * The broader impact of impact accounting beyond just ESG * Conclusion and call to action for CFOs to embrace the role of Chief Value Officer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maxJKO35A7s Links * Arjan Udding on LinkedIn * Werner Schouten on LinkedIn * Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn * GrowCFO Mentoring Timestamps * 0:0:00 - 0:0:19 Introduction and background of the guests  * 0:0:19 - 0:1:35 Debate on whether the finance leader should be called a CFO or CVO  * 0:1:35 - 0:3:15 The need to redefine value beyond financial value  * 0:3:15 - 0:6:00 Expanding financial tools to include social and environmental value  ...

    43 min
See All (210)

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Where Finance Leaders Grow Together

Information

  • Creator
    Kevin Appleby
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    210
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 GrowCFO Limited
  • Show Website
    GrowCFO Show

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada