Finance Transformation Leaders - On the Line and Off the Record

26 October 2011:

Not every finance transformation initiative feels like a hurricane coming ashore, but plenty of them do. And for good reason. Major projects can challenge even the most experienced leaders, especially when the work is global or when there are other closely related initiatives underway at the same time. Transformation can open the door to unanticipated projects that can multiply complexity fast.

At the center of most projects stands a single person who is responsible for making it all happen. Many have titles, a few call themselves “FT Leads.” Many come out of the finance function that’s being transformed, but there are plenty of hired guns, too.

Regardless of their industry, company, going-in roles, or career aspirations, FT Leads have a lot in common. We talked to leaders at major organizations in retail, banking, public sector, consumer products, distribution, manufacturing, and more. All but a few are global businesses.

This report reflects what we learned from those who have weathered the storm. In the interest of getting the most candid insights possible, any information that might allow the identification of individuals or their companies has been scrubbed.