How to become a CFO – 7 steps to guide your career path

By Robert Half 24 February 2020




Here are seven steps on how to become a CFO and how to guide your career path to acquire the skills you’ll need:

1. Gain broad financial experience

Before you even consider how to become a CFO, you'll need a firm grasp of the fundamentals of budgeting, analysis, compliance, risk management and other accounting principals.


2. Expand your business and operational experience

Gaining a deep understanding of the business is critical when learning how to become a CFO. You'll regularly meet with the board and collaborate with managers as a CFO.


3. Widen your customer service experience


These communications will be frequent, as investors are key stakeholders of the business. Focusing on your communications skills will be crucial to serve this responsibility.

4. Broaden your understanding of technology

With more number-crunching in the cloud, Software as a Service and other innovations permeating the finance industry, part of the process of how to become a CFO is understanding the benefits and risks associated with technology.

5. Earn a CPA or MBA

Although CFOs come from various backgrounds, certain certifications and advanced degrees tend to make transitioning into the position easier. CPA qualifications are often the most suited for the role given their wide-reaching skills they represent, including forensic accounting and compliance knowledge.


6. Consider controller and treasury positions



7. Prepare to take on expanded roles


Learn how to become a CFO and accelerate your career potential



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