Chief financial officers (CFOs) must have strong analytical, strategic planning and communication skills, including an ability to work well with the chief executive officer, board members and other senior managers.CFOs typically have at least 10 years of experience in accounting or finance, including a minimum of five years in a management role. Many companies seek candidates who have a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) and/or a professional accreditation such as the Canadian chartered professional accountant (CPA) designation. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), accounting standards for private enterprises (ASPE) and/or US generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Previous experience in public accounting also is highly valued. Candidates for CFO should have held positions of increasing responsibility within an accounting department, such as director of finance, director of accounting or controller.
Typical Duties of a Chief Financial Officer:
Providing strategic management of the accounting and finance functionsDirecting accounting policies, procedures and internal controlsRecommending improvements to ensure the integrity of a company’s financial informationManaging or overseeing the relationship with independent auditorsCollaborating with chief information officers on technology decisionsOverseeing financial systems implementations and upgradesManaging relationships with investors and investment institutionsIdentifying and managing business risks and insurance requirementsHiring, training and retaining skilled accounting and finance staff
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