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In this fourth instalment of the Mastering M&A series, host Hannah Munro is joined by Jeremy Earnshaw, Founding Director of Clarendon and experienced CFO, to explore the journey from CFO to Non-Executive Director (NED). Whether you're considering your first NED role or want to understand the challenges and opportunities that come with it, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How the role differs from an executive position and the mindset shift required
• The reality of NED roles vs. advertised time commitments
• How to assess opportunities and avoid roles that aren't the right fit
• Common pitfalls, governance struggles, and difficult board dynamics
• The key to being an effective NED
• Tips for aspiring NEDs, including building experience and crafting the right CV

Links mentioned:

• Jeremy's Linkedin
• Learn more about Clarendon Executive Coaching and Mentoring

• Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here.
• Subscribe to our Podcast!

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In this episode of Financial Transformation Live Hannah Munro explores how finance leaders can step up and take a more strategic role in driving change and process improvement across their organisations.

With AI and automation set to reshape finance, CFOs and finance teams must shift their focus beyond transactional tasks and become catalysts for business transformation. Hannah dives into the opportunities for finance to lead cross-departmental change, break down silos, and enhance operational efficiency.

Key Topics Covered:

• The evolving role of finance in a world of AI & automation
• Why finance is uniquely positioned to drive change across the business
• How to identify inefficiencies and streamline finance processes
• The importance of cross-departmental collaboration in transformation projects
• Strategies for overcoming resistance to change and building consensus
• The role of finance in breaking down data silos and improving decision-making

Links mentioned:

• February FTL: Financial Transformation Live: The Finance-Driven Approach to Smarter Business Processes
• Revisit previous Financial Transformation Live sessions
• CFO 4.0 Monthly Briefing
• Financial Transformation Live Feedback survey

• Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here.
• Subscribe to our Podcast!

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In this episode of the CFO 4.0 Podcast, host Hannah Munro sits down with Phil Moses, CFO at Octavius, to discuss his fascinating career journey from working in PLCs to Private Equity-backed businesses. With experience spanning insurance, telecoms, infrastructure, and construction, Phil shares his lessons on managing investors, driving financial strategy, and adapting to different ownership models.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• How Phil approached investor engagement and messaging in the PLC world, including handling difficult conversations.
• Key differences in reporting, decision-making speed, and working with multiple investors.
• Challenges of goal alignment, board dynamics, and the role of a strong chairperson in creating consensus.
• The importance of transparency, relationship-building, and setting realistic yet ambitious targets.
• How PE expectations differ from the public market approach.

Links mentioned:

• Phil's Linkedin
• Learn more about Octavius

• Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here.
• Subscribe to our Podcast!