Companies with CFOs on the Move this week include: Mediterranean Resources Ltd., Sequoia Energy Inc., Squash Canada, Superior Mining International Corporation, Keegan Resources Inc., Labopharm Inc., Indigo Books & Music Inc., Tree Island Wire Income Fund, Phoenix Oilfield Hauling Inc., Martinrea International Inc., Healthscreen Solutions Inc., PRD Energy Inc., Coalcorp Mining Inc., IBI Group Inc., Firebird Resources Inc.
Mediterranean Resources Ltd. (TSX: MNR, Frankfurt: MHM1) announced that Winnie Wong (of Pacific Opportunity Capital Ltd.) has resigned from her position of Chief Financial Officer to allow for the appointment of Ann Fehr as the new Chief Financial Officer. Ms. Fehr has several years of experience with the implementation and use of International Financial Reporting Systems which will greatly aid the Company in its transition to IFRS.
Sequoia Energy Inc. announced that Veteran finance executive Wes Thiessen has joined the Company as its new Chief Financial Officer. President and CEO Ron Diduch, was managing the CFO tasks in addition to his strategic duties prior to this hire. Mr. Thiessen recently served as Chief Financial Officer of Craig Wireless Systems Ltd. and also gained international experience with Ridley Inc., a multinational manufacturing company.
Squash Canada announced the appointment of Ann Marie Reinson of Edmonton, Alberta as the new Vice President of Finance for Squash Canada. Ann Marie, has been involved in the game of Squash for the past 25 years; some of her experiences included the chair of the 2006 Women’s World Team Squash Championships, chair of the Royal Glenora Squash Committee and the Women’s High Performance liaison for Squash Canada from 1999 – 2003. Ms. Reinson, currently works for multinational pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline. Ann Marie has been appointed V.P. of Finance for 1 ½ year term.
Superior Mining International Corporation (TSX-V: SUI) announced the appointment of Brian Richardson as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Richardson previously worked for Ernst & Young in Toronto and in Hong Kong and currently serves as Chief Financial Officer of TSX listed Southern Arc Minerals Inc. (TSX-V: SA) and CNSX listed Bryant Resources Inc. (CNSX: BYR).
Keegan Resources Inc. (TSX: KGN, NYSE Amex: KGN) announced the appointment of Greg McCunn as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. McCunn’s background includes technical, operational, corporate development and financial roles with Teck, Placer Dome, and several junior mining companies in Canada and Australia. He most recently spent three years as CFO of Farallon Mining Ltd. Mr. McCunn played an integral role in the friendly take-over of Farallon in January 2011 by Nyrstar NV. Prior to Farallon Mr. McCunn was Vice President, Project Development for Zincore Metals. Tony Ricci has been holding dual positions as both CFO and Corporate Secretary. Due to significant growth within the Company as it continues its advancement; the need has arisen to divide these roles into two positions with Mr. Ricci continuing as Corporate Secretary and Executive Vice President.
Labopharm Inc. (TSX: DDS, NASDAQ: DDSS) announced that Sylvain Guénette has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation. Mr. Guénette joined Labopharm as Controller in 2002 and was most recently Vice President and Corporate Controller. Before joining Labopharm, Mr. Guénette was Corporate Controller at Les Systèmes Proxima Ltée and Director of Finance and Operations at the Montreal office of Nurun Inc. Mr. Guenette has also held various finance and accounting positions within the Quebecor Group.
Indigo Books & Music Inc. (TSX: IDG) announced the appointment of Kay Brekken, Senior Vice President, Finance to the position of Chief Financial Officer. Ms. Brekken succeeds outgoing CFO and COO Jim McGill who will remain with Indigo in the COO role until July. Ms. Brekken has been with Indigo since 2003, most recently as Chief Accounting Officer.
Tree Island Wire Income Fund (TSX:TIL.UN) announced that Brian Irving, Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer has tendered his resignation and that Nancy Davies, the current Corporate Controller, has been appointed Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Ms. Davies has been with Tree Island since 2008. Previously, she held positions as Audit Manager at Ernst and Young LLP, Manager SOX Financial Reporting at Placer Dome and Vice President Internal Audit at CHC Helicopter Corporation.
Phoenix Oilfield Hauling Inc. (TSX-V:PHN) announced that Doug Eger, Chief Financial Officer, has announced his resignation to pursue other business interests.
Martinrea International Inc. (TSX: MRE) announced the appointment of Fred Di Tosto as Chief Financial Officer of Martinrea, replacing Nick Orlando. Mr. Di Tosto joined the Company in June 2010 as Vice President of Finance.
Healthscreen Solutions Inc. (TSX-V: MDU), announced that Isabella Cattelan will be joining Healthscreen as Chief Financial Officer. Ms. Cattelan brings domestic and international experience from her eight years with Maritz Canada Inc. as CFO and EVP, Maritz Europa Limited as CFO and European SVP Group Services. She also served three years as the CFO for CTVglobemedia Publishing Inc. (The Globe and Mail).
PRD Energy Inc. (TSX-V: PRD) announced the appointment of Jeff Scott as Vice President, Finance. Mr. Scott joins PRD from Ernst & Young Orenda Corporate Finance. Mr. Scott has previous experience in the Audit and Assurance practice of Ernst & Young with both junior and senior oil and gas companies.
Coalcorp Mining Inc. (NEX: CCJ.H) announced the appointment of Robert Dietrich to its Board of Directors. Mr. Dietrich, is currently Executive Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of Timminco Limited, (TSX: TIM). Mr Dietrich has also served on various national committees of Financial Executives International (FEI) Canada. Steven Cresswell will assume the responsibility as the Chief Financial Officer of Coalcorp. Previously he held the position of Chief Financial Officer for Tiberon Minerals PTE, a Singaporean company developing a polymetallic mine in Northern Vietnam. In addition to his Asian experience, Mr. Cresswell has a broad base of international experience having worked in North, South and Central America.
IBI Group Inc. (TSX: IBG) announced the appointment of Michel Poitras as Interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Poitras replaces Allan Kamerman, who is departing IBI Group Inc. Mr. Poitras is a member of the Executive Committee of IBI Group, he holds the position of Vice-President - Finance with IBI/DAA Group in Montreal, as well as with the Beijing and Shanghai offices. He participated in the integration of Daniel Arbour & Associates into IBI Group in 2006, and was also responsible for implementing the ISO 9001:2000 certification. Prior to joining the IBI/DAA group, Mr. Poitras was a partner with Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton.
Firebird Resources Inc. (TSX-V: FIX) announced the appointment of Stephen Gledhill as CFO and Secretary effective immediately, replacing Garth Sinclaire. Mr. Gledhill acts as CFO of a number of emerging resource companies and is a partner in RG Mining Investments Inc., a mineral project generation and services company.
If you have news about CFOs on the move, or any comments on this feature, please email us.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Thursday, March 24, 2011
5 difficult steps to becoming a Great CFO
CFOs get lots of good advice about their career. They hear things like:
- Build your Personal Brand
- Always be Networking
- Learn to be more Strategic
- Acquire Operational Experience
These tidbits are important for a CFOs success.
However, as good a CFO as you may be, to become a Great CFO you must have a great team.
Having a great team gives you the bench strength you need to spend the time necessary to be strategic and add value to the business, rather than getting lost in the day to day functional realities and firefighting.
Whether you are the newly hired CFO or have been the CFO for a while, the steps necessary are the same. You need to:
1) Design what your team should look like to support your vision
2) Look critically at your current team and allocate people based on their strengths
3) Dismiss those whose strengths do not align with the vision of what your team should look like
4) Hire right to fill the gaps, and
5) Create a succession plan for your team and for yourself.
Sounds simple. It's not. But you already knew that. However, putting in the time and the effort to doing these steps will put you on track to becoming a Great CFO.
I urge you to make this effort. It will be worth the time.
Let me know how it goes.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Canadian CFOs on the Move - week ending March 18, 2011
Companies with CFOs on the Move this week include: MegaWest Energy Corp., Axia NetMedia Corporation, Soltoro Ltd., Apogee Minerals Limited. Xebec Adsorption Inc., Minaurum Gold Inc., Arian Silver Corporation, ProSep Inc., Meadow Bay Capital Corporation, Feronia Inc., Seymour Ventures Corp., Patient Home Monitoring, CO2 Solution Inc., Hunt Mining Corp., SSQ Financial Group, Labopharm
MegaWest Energy Corp. (OTCBB: MGWSF) announced the appointment of F. George Orr as interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Mr. Orr is a Director of the Company and chairman of the audit committee.
Axia NetMedia Corporation (TSX: AXX) announced today that Alan Hartslief has joined Axia as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), replacing Peter McKeown who is retiring and will continue to consult with Axia through the transition. Mr. Hartslief previously was CFO for Terra Nova Royalty Corp. (formerly KHD Humboldt Wedag). Prior to that he was with Ciba Specialty Chemicals for ten years where he held several positions with increasing executive responsibilities including CFO-NAFTA Region.
Soltoro Ltd. (TSX-V: SOL) announced the appointment of Brian Jennings to the position of Chief Financial Officer and Secretary of the Company. Mr. Jennings replaces Douglas Reeson as CFO. Mr. Reeson will continue to act as a director of Soltoro Ltd.
Apogee Minerals Limited (TSX-V: APE) announced that David Hunter has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company following the resignation of Greg Duras. Mr. Hunter has served in senior financial roles including Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Director and Controller in both public and private companies.
Xebec Adsorption Inc. (TSX: XBC) announced the departure of the Company's Chief Financial Officer, Ginette Gagné, to pursue other avenues. Lyne Routhier, currently the Corporate Controller of the company, will assume the responsibility of Chief Financial Officer on an interim basis.
Minaurum Gold Inc. (TSX-V: MGG) announced the appointement of Cale Moodie to the position of Chief Financial Officer, replacing Darryl Cardey. Mr. Moodie previously served as the Chief Financial Officer of Underworld Resources Inc. prior to its acquisition by Kinross in 2010. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer to Full Metal Minerals Ltd, Brixton Metals Corp. and Entourage Metals Ltd. Prior to Underworld Resources Inc., Mr. Moodie acted as Chief Financial Officer and was a Director for Sierra Geothermal Corp., which was subsequently acquired by Ram Power in 2010.
Arian Silver Corporation (TSX-V : AGQ) announced that Graham Potts will step down from his position as Chief Financial Officer effective immediately. Graham will remain as Corporate Secretary of Arian. An announcement is expected to be released soon regarding the appointment of a new CFO. To ensure a smooth transition, Arian's Financial Controller, Victoria Parkes, will cover duties of the CFO until a replacement is found.
ProSep Inc. (TSX: PRP) announced the appointment of Claude Samson as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary. Mr. Samson was most recently Quebec Leader of Financial Management Services at IBM Business Consulting Services. Previously, Mr. Samson held positions as Senior or Executive Vice-President, Finance at AMEC Engineering & Construction, Canada Trust Financial Services, AlphaNet Telecom, Téléglobe Canada and The Laurentian Group. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Financial Executives International (Quebec Chapter), as well as on the Institute of Corporate Directors' (Quebec Chapter) Professional Development Committee.
Meadow Bay Capital Corporation (TSX-V: MAY, FRANKFURT: 20M) announced the appointment of Keith Margetson as Chief Financial Officer of the Company, replacing Terry Fields.
Feronia Inc. (TSX-V: FRN) announced the appointment of Danesh Varma as the new Chief Financial Officer of the Company, replacing Georgie Cotton, who will act as a consultant in order to facilitate the changeover. Mr. Varma was formerly President and Managing Director of American Resource Corporation Limited, Dundee Bancorp, Dundee Investment Management and Research Ltd. and Dundee Mutual Funds India, in addition to holding the post of director and Vice President of the Dundee Bank Cayman. He was formerly a director of Northgate Exploration Limited and Westfield Minerals Limited.
Seymour Ventures Corp. (TSX-V: SEY) announced that Robert Chisholm has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company. Mr. Chisholm is currently the Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") for Emprise Capital Corporation, a private merchant banking firm, and serves as a director, and audit committee member of a number of public companies. Mr. Chisholm also served as CFO for PNI Digital Media Inc. for more than 7 years.
Patient Home Monitoring (TSX-V: PHM) announced the appointment of Nathan Gilliland to the position of Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer.
CO2 Solution Inc. (TSX-V: CST) announced that it has appointed Thom Skinner as Senior Vice President Finance & Chief Financial Officer. Linda Parent, who acted as Vice President Finance and Administration, will remain within the company with other responsibilities and to ensure continuity of the ongoing files as well as the transfer of financial information. Mr. Skinner joins CO2 Solution from TS Business Solutions, a Quebec-based business consultancy which he founded in 2001 where he provided corporate financial and administrative services to a range of public and private companies. In this capacity, he was Chief Financial Officer of DiagnoCure Inc., a Quebec-based biotechnology company . He also served as Interim Vice President (finance and information technology) of Sanofi /Aventis Canada. More recently, he acted as Principal Advisor to the Chairman of Groupe Biscuits Leclerc Inc. Prior to TS Business Solutions, Mr. Skinner held a number of senior management positions in Canada and Europe including Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MediSolution Ltd., Vice President, Finance and Administration of McKesson Canada Corp., Vice President, Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer of the Business Development Bank of Canada and Vice President of Sunlife Financial Services. Mr. Skinner is a member of several professional associations in Canada and has served on several Boards of Directors including a term as Chairman of The Montreal Children's Hospital. He is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation Robert-Giffard.
Hunt Mining Corp. (TSX-V: HMX) announced the appointment of Vicki Streng as Interim Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary. Bryn Harman, the current Chief Financial Officer, is resigning his position to seek other opportunities but will remain as a Director of the Corporation. Ms. Streng, the Corporation's current Controller, has over fifteen years of accounting experience in the mining industry. Previously, she held the positions of Controller for Nevoro Inc., Controller for Minera Andes Inc. and Assistant Controller for Yamana Gold Inc. (formerly Yamana Resources Inc.).
SSQ Financial Group, a mutual insurance company, announced the appointment of Patrick Cyr to the position of Senior Vice-President of Finances and Control. Mr. Cyr has been president of the Regroupement des comptables agréés de Québec and for the last 10 years has sat on the insurance committee of the Ordre des comptables agréés du Québec. Mr. Cyr worked for the firm KPMG before joining the ranks of SSQ Financial Group in 1992. He has held a number of management positions at SSQ General Insurance and SSQ Financial Group where until recently he was Vice-President of Customer Service and Administration for Group Insurance.
Labopharm, (TSX: DDS, NASDAQ: DDSS) announced that Mark D'Souza, the Corporation's current Chief Financial Officer, has been elected President and Chief Executive Officer of Labopharm and a member of the board of directors. Mr. D'Souza replaces James Howard-Tripp as President and Chief Executive Officer and board member.
If you have news about CFOs on the move, or any comments on this feature, please email us.
MegaWest Energy Corp. (OTCBB: MGWSF) announced the appointment of F. George Orr as interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Mr. Orr is a Director of the Company and chairman of the audit committee.
Axia NetMedia Corporation (TSX: AXX) announced today that Alan Hartslief has joined Axia as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), replacing Peter McKeown who is retiring and will continue to consult with Axia through the transition. Mr. Hartslief previously was CFO for Terra Nova Royalty Corp. (formerly KHD Humboldt Wedag). Prior to that he was with Ciba Specialty Chemicals for ten years where he held several positions with increasing executive responsibilities including CFO-NAFTA Region.
Soltoro Ltd. (TSX-V: SOL) announced the appointment of Brian Jennings to the position of Chief Financial Officer and Secretary of the Company. Mr. Jennings replaces Douglas Reeson as CFO. Mr. Reeson will continue to act as a director of Soltoro Ltd.
Apogee Minerals Limited (TSX-V: APE) announced that David Hunter has been appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of the Company following the resignation of Greg Duras. Mr. Hunter has served in senior financial roles including Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Director and Controller in both public and private companies.
Xebec Adsorption Inc. (TSX: XBC) announced the departure of the Company's Chief Financial Officer, Ginette Gagné, to pursue other avenues. Lyne Routhier, currently the Corporate Controller of the company, will assume the responsibility of Chief Financial Officer on an interim basis.
Minaurum Gold Inc. (TSX-V: MGG) announced the appointement of Cale Moodie to the position of Chief Financial Officer, replacing Darryl Cardey. Mr. Moodie previously served as the Chief Financial Officer of Underworld Resources Inc. prior to its acquisition by Kinross in 2010. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer to Full Metal Minerals Ltd, Brixton Metals Corp. and Entourage Metals Ltd. Prior to Underworld Resources Inc., Mr. Moodie acted as Chief Financial Officer and was a Director for Sierra Geothermal Corp., which was subsequently acquired by Ram Power in 2010.
Arian Silver Corporation (TSX-V : AGQ) announced that Graham Potts will step down from his position as Chief Financial Officer effective immediately. Graham will remain as Corporate Secretary of Arian. An announcement is expected to be released soon regarding the appointment of a new CFO. To ensure a smooth transition, Arian's Financial Controller, Victoria Parkes, will cover duties of the CFO until a replacement is found.
ProSep Inc. (TSX: PRP) announced the appointment of Claude Samson as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary. Mr. Samson was most recently Quebec Leader of Financial Management Services at IBM Business Consulting Services. Previously, Mr. Samson held positions as Senior or Executive Vice-President, Finance at AMEC Engineering & Construction, Canada Trust Financial Services, AlphaNet Telecom, Téléglobe Canada and The Laurentian Group. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Financial Executives International (Quebec Chapter), as well as on the Institute of Corporate Directors' (Quebec Chapter) Professional Development Committee.
Meadow Bay Capital Corporation (TSX-V: MAY, FRANKFURT: 20M) announced the appointment of Keith Margetson as Chief Financial Officer of the Company, replacing Terry Fields.
Feronia Inc. (TSX-V: FRN) announced the appointment of Danesh Varma as the new Chief Financial Officer of the Company, replacing Georgie Cotton, who will act as a consultant in order to facilitate the changeover. Mr. Varma was formerly President and Managing Director of American Resource Corporation Limited, Dundee Bancorp, Dundee Investment Management and Research Ltd. and Dundee Mutual Funds India, in addition to holding the post of director and Vice President of the Dundee Bank Cayman. He was formerly a director of Northgate Exploration Limited and Westfield Minerals Limited.
Seymour Ventures Corp. (TSX-V: SEY) announced that Robert Chisholm has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company. Mr. Chisholm is currently the Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") for Emprise Capital Corporation, a private merchant banking firm, and serves as a director, and audit committee member of a number of public companies. Mr. Chisholm also served as CFO for PNI Digital Media Inc. for more than 7 years.
Patient Home Monitoring (TSX-V: PHM) announced the appointment of Nathan Gilliland to the position of Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer.
CO2 Solution Inc. (TSX-V: CST) announced that it has appointed Thom Skinner as Senior Vice President Finance & Chief Financial Officer. Linda Parent, who acted as Vice President Finance and Administration, will remain within the company with other responsibilities and to ensure continuity of the ongoing files as well as the transfer of financial information. Mr. Skinner joins CO2 Solution from TS Business Solutions, a Quebec-based business consultancy which he founded in 2001 where he provided corporate financial and administrative services to a range of public and private companies. In this capacity, he was Chief Financial Officer of DiagnoCure Inc., a Quebec-based biotechnology company . He also served as Interim Vice President (finance and information technology) of Sanofi /Aventis Canada. More recently, he acted as Principal Advisor to the Chairman of Groupe Biscuits Leclerc Inc. Prior to TS Business Solutions, Mr. Skinner held a number of senior management positions in Canada and Europe including Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of MediSolution Ltd., Vice President, Finance and Administration of McKesson Canada Corp., Vice President, Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer of the Business Development Bank of Canada and Vice President of Sunlife Financial Services. Mr. Skinner is a member of several professional associations in Canada and has served on several Boards of Directors including a term as Chairman of The Montreal Children's Hospital. He is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Foundation Robert-Giffard.
Hunt Mining Corp. (TSX-V: HMX) announced the appointment of Vicki Streng as Interim Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary. Bryn Harman, the current Chief Financial Officer, is resigning his position to seek other opportunities but will remain as a Director of the Corporation. Ms. Streng, the Corporation's current Controller, has over fifteen years of accounting experience in the mining industry. Previously, she held the positions of Controller for Nevoro Inc., Controller for Minera Andes Inc. and Assistant Controller for Yamana Gold Inc. (formerly Yamana Resources Inc.).
SSQ Financial Group, a mutual insurance company, announced the appointment of Patrick Cyr to the position of Senior Vice-President of Finances and Control. Mr. Cyr has been president of the Regroupement des comptables agréés de Québec and for the last 10 years has sat on the insurance committee of the Ordre des comptables agréés du Québec. Mr. Cyr worked for the firm KPMG before joining the ranks of SSQ Financial Group in 1992. He has held a number of management positions at SSQ General Insurance and SSQ Financial Group where until recently he was Vice-President of Customer Service and Administration for Group Insurance.
Labopharm, (TSX: DDS, NASDAQ: DDSS) announced that Mark D'Souza, the Corporation's current Chief Financial Officer, has been elected President and Chief Executive Officer of Labopharm and a member of the board of directors. Mr. D'Souza replaces James Howard-Tripp as President and Chief Executive Officer and board member.
If you have news about CFOs on the move, or any comments on this feature, please email us.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Canadian CFOs on the Move – week ending March 11, 2011
Companies with CFOs on the Move this week include: General Motors, Kinross Gold Corporation, Key Gold Holding Inc., Artha Resources Corporation, Mega View Digital Entertainment Corp., Essex Angel Capital Inc.
General Motors (NYSE: GM, TSX: GMM) Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer Chris Liddell today announced that he will leave the company April 1, 2011. Dan Ammann will succeed Liddell as General Motors chief financial officer, effective April 1, 2011. Ammann, 38, is currently GM vice president, finance and treasurer. Since joining the company in March, 2010, Ammann has led the GM Treasurer's Office, based in New York, with operations around the world. Prior to GM, Ammann was managing director and head of Industrials Investment Banking for Morgan Stanley and was instrumental in many high profile assignments spanning a variety of technology, service, and manufacturing clients. A successor for Ammann in GM's Treasurer's Office will be announced at a later date.
Kinross Gold Corporation (TSX: K; NYSE: KGC) announced the appointment of Paul H. Barry as Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Barry replaces Thomas M. Boehlert, who will be leaving the Company by mutual agreement to pursue other opportunities. Mr. Boehlert will remain with the Company for an appropriate period to ensure a smooth transition. Since 2009, he has been an independent consultant in Washington, D.C. From 2007 to 2009, Mr. Barry was Senior Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of Pepco Holdings, Inc. From 2002 to 2007, he held several positions at Duke Energy Corporation, including most recently Senior Vice-President and Chief Development Officer. Previously, he held positions in business development and financial management at Amoco Corporation and General Electric Company.
Key Gold Holding Inc. (TSX-V: KGH) announced the appointment of Graham Warren to the positions of Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and Director of the Corporation effective immediately. Mr. Warren is a senior financial executive with over 25 years of experience with emerging companies in the oil and gas, mining, environmental, biotech and software sectors. He has extensive operations, international business, corporate finance and public market experience. Mr. Warren has served as Chief Financial Officer and Director of several public issuers.
Artha Resources Corporation (TSX-V: AHC) announced the appointment of George Lim to its Board of Directors. Mr. Lim is currently the Chief Financial Officer of Dundarave Resources Inc. (TSX-V: DDX) and is on the board of directors of Eurasian Mineral Inc. (TSX-V: EMX). Until its recent takeover, in a transaction valued at in excess of $430 million, Mr. Lim held the position of Chief Financial Officer of Potash One Inc. (TSX: KCL). Mr. Lim was also the Chief Financial Officer of Energy Metals Corporation (NYSE-ARCA: EMU, TSX: EMC) prior to its take-over in a transaction valued at $1.5 billion. Mr. Lim has been involved in numerous financings, mergers and acquisitions of public companies listed on TSX and NYSE.
Mega View Digital Entertainment Corp. (TSX-V: MVD) announces that Michael Lam has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer, replacing Felix Tung. Michael was formerly a Senior Manager with Deloitte & Touche LLP specialising in Canadian and U.S. public companies filings. Michael has previously also served as Group Accountant at Vive Synergies Inc., a manufacturer of special telephony products and as Manager at KPMG (Mauritius).
Essex Angel Capital Inc. (TSX-V: EXC.P) announced today that Michael Labiak was appointed Chief Financial Officer. Mark Meldrum, who previously held the titles of President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chairman, will remain a director and Chairman of the board of directors.
If you have news about CFOs on the move, or any comments on this feature, please email us.
General Motors (NYSE: GM, TSX: GMM) Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer Chris Liddell today announced that he will leave the company April 1, 2011. Dan Ammann will succeed Liddell as General Motors chief financial officer, effective April 1, 2011. Ammann, 38, is currently GM vice president, finance and treasurer. Since joining the company in March, 2010, Ammann has led the GM Treasurer's Office, based in New York, with operations around the world. Prior to GM, Ammann was managing director and head of Industrials Investment Banking for Morgan Stanley and was instrumental in many high profile assignments spanning a variety of technology, service, and manufacturing clients. A successor for Ammann in GM's Treasurer's Office will be announced at a later date.
Kinross Gold Corporation (TSX: K; NYSE: KGC) announced the appointment of Paul H. Barry as Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Barry replaces Thomas M. Boehlert, who will be leaving the Company by mutual agreement to pursue other opportunities. Mr. Boehlert will remain with the Company for an appropriate period to ensure a smooth transition. Since 2009, he has been an independent consultant in Washington, D.C. From 2007 to 2009, Mr. Barry was Senior Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of Pepco Holdings, Inc. From 2002 to 2007, he held several positions at Duke Energy Corporation, including most recently Senior Vice-President and Chief Development Officer. Previously, he held positions in business development and financial management at Amoco Corporation and General Electric Company.
Key Gold Holding Inc. (TSX-V: KGH) announced the appointment of Graham Warren to the positions of Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and Director of the Corporation effective immediately. Mr. Warren is a senior financial executive with over 25 years of experience with emerging companies in the oil and gas, mining, environmental, biotech and software sectors. He has extensive operations, international business, corporate finance and public market experience. Mr. Warren has served as Chief Financial Officer and Director of several public issuers.
Artha Resources Corporation (TSX-V: AHC) announced the appointment of George Lim to its Board of Directors. Mr. Lim is currently the Chief Financial Officer of Dundarave Resources Inc. (TSX-V: DDX) and is on the board of directors of Eurasian Mineral Inc. (TSX-V: EMX). Until its recent takeover, in a transaction valued at in excess of $430 million, Mr. Lim held the position of Chief Financial Officer of Potash One Inc. (TSX: KCL). Mr. Lim was also the Chief Financial Officer of Energy Metals Corporation (NYSE-ARCA: EMU, TSX: EMC) prior to its take-over in a transaction valued at $1.5 billion. Mr. Lim has been involved in numerous financings, mergers and acquisitions of public companies listed on TSX and NYSE.
Mega View Digital Entertainment Corp. (TSX-V: MVD) announces that Michael Lam has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer, replacing Felix Tung. Michael was formerly a Senior Manager with Deloitte & Touche LLP specialising in Canadian and U.S. public companies filings. Michael has previously also served as Group Accountant at Vive Synergies Inc., a manufacturer of special telephony products and as Manager at KPMG (Mauritius).
Essex Angel Capital Inc. (TSX-V: EXC.P) announced today that Michael Labiak was appointed Chief Financial Officer. Mark Meldrum, who previously held the titles of President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chairman, will remain a director and Chairman of the board of directors.
If you have news about CFOs on the move, or any comments on this feature, please email us.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Kvetches from the Trenches - Job Seeker Complaints [Q1 2011]
Being a mid-level financial manager looking for work in this market is still tough. It has been for a while. When we have heart to heart discussions with these capable people, we hear many complaints. Here are some of them.
Complaints about Companies:
Companies are low-balling: Candidates feel that companies are taking advantage, and paying less for positions that should have a higher salary. One candidate we spoke with believes that companies are offering salaries that are 15-20% less then they feel they should be paid for the level of work required. Job seekers are frustrated with this price differential.
“I would rather work with an external recruiter”: Some candidates have told us that they would prefer to work with a recruiter they trust, rather than work directly with the hiring company. They feel they get more complete and reliable information in the search from an external recruiter.
Companies are taking too long to make a decision: During the height of the recession this was the most difficult issue with companies that were looking to hire. Now that we are passed those lows and on the way to recovery, companies are still taking too long to make decisions. Not only does time make it more difficult for companies to hire the best people (because the best candidates will not wait for them), companies are not helping their market reputation.
Getting stuck in HR Hell: The job-seeker hears about a job that sounds ideal for them. They send their resume in, because that is what they believe they are supposed to do. And then they wait. And wait. They wait for whoever is in charge of the company resume inbox to actually read their resume, understand what they do, and put them to the top of the pile. Good luck – you have now entered HR Hell. Most of the time, the person clearing the inbox and doing the initial assessment has no real clue as to what to look for in the resume. At best, they are working off a key word list.
Complaints about Recruiters:
Job seekers are not only frustrated with companies; they are frustrated with some recruiters too. Job seekers we have spoken with generally like recruiters, but not all of them. Here are some of their complaints.
Recruiters that don’t understand what I do: “When I have to explain what I do to a recruiter who doesn’t understand what I do, how can I be sure that she is representing me properly to the company?”
Recruiters that blast me: “I can’t stand when a recruiter presents me to a company that I did not give them permission to do so.”
Recruiters that don’t understand my market: “When I see area code XXX on my call display, I cringe. Those [Unnamed Large City] recruiters are the worst. They don’t have a clue about the market I live in.”
Recruiters that call me for roles that I said I wasn’t interested in: “I told the recruiter I was not interested in an internal audit position. Why do they keep calling me about internal audit roles?”
On the positive side, most of the job seekers we spoke with said that their complaints about recruiters are limited to a small number of them. Most recruiters, they feel, are reputable and provide quality service.
When I asked one job seeker whether he dealt with recruiters he would prefer not to deal with, he said: “I’m actively looking for a job. If a recruiter I don’t like to work with has a job opportunity for me, how can I pass up working with them? I need a job. I just hold my nose.”
Complaints about Companies:
Companies are low-balling: Candidates feel that companies are taking advantage, and paying less for positions that should have a higher salary. One candidate we spoke with believes that companies are offering salaries that are 15-20% less then they feel they should be paid for the level of work required. Job seekers are frustrated with this price differential.
“I would rather work with an external recruiter”: Some candidates have told us that they would prefer to work with a recruiter they trust, rather than work directly with the hiring company. They feel they get more complete and reliable information in the search from an external recruiter.
Companies are taking too long to make a decision: During the height of the recession this was the most difficult issue with companies that were looking to hire. Now that we are passed those lows and on the way to recovery, companies are still taking too long to make decisions. Not only does time make it more difficult for companies to hire the best people (because the best candidates will not wait for them), companies are not helping their market reputation.
Getting stuck in HR Hell: The job-seeker hears about a job that sounds ideal for them. They send their resume in, because that is what they believe they are supposed to do. And then they wait. And wait. They wait for whoever is in charge of the company resume inbox to actually read their resume, understand what they do, and put them to the top of the pile. Good luck – you have now entered HR Hell. Most of the time, the person clearing the inbox and doing the initial assessment has no real clue as to what to look for in the resume. At best, they are working off a key word list.
Complaints about Recruiters:
Job seekers are not only frustrated with companies; they are frustrated with some recruiters too. Job seekers we have spoken with generally like recruiters, but not all of them. Here are some of their complaints.
Recruiters that don’t understand what I do: “When I have to explain what I do to a recruiter who doesn’t understand what I do, how can I be sure that she is representing me properly to the company?”
Recruiters that blast me: “I can’t stand when a recruiter presents me to a company that I did not give them permission to do so.”
Recruiters that don’t understand my market: “When I see area code XXX on my call display, I cringe. Those [Unnamed Large City] recruiters are the worst. They don’t have a clue about the market I live in.”
Recruiters that call me for roles that I said I wasn’t interested in: “I told the recruiter I was not interested in an internal audit position. Why do they keep calling me about internal audit roles?”
On the positive side, most of the job seekers we spoke with said that their complaints about recruiters are limited to a small number of them. Most recruiters, they feel, are reputable and provide quality service.
When I asked one job seeker whether he dealt with recruiters he would prefer not to deal with, he said: “I’m actively looking for a job. If a recruiter I don’t like to work with has a job opportunity for me, how can I pass up working with them? I need a job. I just hold my nose.”
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Canadian CFOs on the Move – week ending March 4, 2011
Companies with CFOs on the Move this week include: Crocodile Gold Corp., China Gold International Resources Corp. Ltd., Lyrtech Inc., Prestige Telecom Inc., Sparta Capital Ltd., Focus Metals Inc., Sunridge Investments Corp., Alacer Gold Corp., Luiri Gold Limited, Petrodorado Energy Ltd., PrimeWest Exploration Inc., Saturn Minerals Inc., Hy Lake Gold Inc., Royce Resources Corp., Petro-Reef Resources Ltd., Bowood Energy Inc., Pacific Cascade Minerals Inc., Colossus Minerals Inc., Sereno Capital Corporation
Crocodile Gold Corp. (TSX: CRK) announced that Stephen Woodhead has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Company, replacing Brad Boland. Mr. Woodhead has served in senior financial positions with several public companies, including as Chief Financial Officer of Desert Sun Mining Corp. until it was acquired by Yamana Gold Inc. in 2006. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Vaaldiam Mining Inc.
China Gold International Resources Corp. Ltd. (TSX: CGG) announced the resignation of George Law as Chief Financial Officer, and the appointment of Derrick Zhang as Interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Zhang has over 18 years of experience in financial reporting for public companies including experience leading financial reporting for mergers and acquisitions and has served as the Company's controller since January 2010.
Lyrtech Inc. (TSX-V: LTK) announced the resignation of Louis N. Bélanger as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") of the Corporation and the appointment of Vincent Bélanger who will take over the responsibility of the CFO position. Messrs. Louis and Vincent Bélanger are not related. Mr. Vincent Bélanger is chartered accountant and president of CFO Solution Inc., a company through which he provides part-time CFO services for public and private companies. He has over 20 years of experience as chartered accountant and business advisor, mainly as CFO.
Prestige Telecom Inc. (TSX-V: PR) announced today the appointment of Alain Boucher as the Company's Interim Chief Financial Officer. Jack Pulkinen who assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer since February 2009 will transfer his responsibilities to the strategic planning of the Company as Senior Vice-President Strategy.
Sparta Capital Ltd. (TSX-V: SAY) announced that Murray Hinz, has tendered his resignation from the interim position of Chief Financial Officer for Sparta. Mr. Hinz will continue in a consulting capacity with the Corporation. Ray Ludwig, currently Vice President Operations, has accepted the appointment to the additional role and responsibilities of Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Ludwig has prior Chief Financial Officer experience with public companies and has extensive prior experience in financial and business management as a consultant to public and private companies.
Focus Metals Inc. (TSX-V: FMS) announced the appointment of Judith Mazvihwa-MacLean as new Chief Financial Officer. Mrs. MacLean is replacing Khadija Abounaim who has resigned her position as CFO. Prior to joining Focus Metals Inc., Mrs. MacLean was the CFO for Logan Resources Ltd., and Acme Resources Inc. (formerly, International KRL Resources Corp.) from 2002 to 2010 and Golden Harp Resources Inc. from 2006 to 2009. She also served on the Boards of both Logan Resources Ltd., and Acme Resources Ltd.
Sunridge Investments Corp. (TSX-V: SRG) announced that following the closing of its Qualifying Transaction, Jerry Bella has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary. Mr. Bella is currently the Chief Financial Officer of TNR and Foundation Resources Inc. and has experience at the executive level of both private and public companies.
Alacer Gold Corp. (TSX: ASR) announced the appointment of Douglas Tobler as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Alacer (formerly Anatolia Minerals) in 2004, Mr. Tobler was president and founder of Falcon Strategic Partners where he provided advisory services to a number of mining, oil & gas, distribution and technology companies.
Luiri Gold Limited (TSX-V: LGL) announced that Mike Langoulant has been appointed Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary following the resignation of Peter Tanham as CFO and Company Secretary.
Petrodorado Energy Ltd. (TSX-V: PDQ) announced the appointment of Sean Bovingdon as Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, following the resignation of Alan Beaulieu.
PrimeWest Exploration Inc. (TSX-V: PWI) announced that Ross Jones has been appointed to the positions of President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation. Greg Noval has tendered his resignation as the President, Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Corporation and Manjeet Dhillon has tendered his resignation as Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation.
Saturn Minerals Inc. (TSX-V: SMI) announced that it has retained Scott Davis as its Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"). Mr. Davis' experience is extremely well suited for the position of CFO with Saturn Minerals. Mr. Davis replaces Larry Johnson who resigned as CFO.
Hy Lake Gold Inc. (CNSX: HYL) announced the appointment of Gaetan Chabot as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Chabot has been Chief Financial Officer of several publicly traded junior mining companies for the past 5 years, including Asia Now Resources Corp. and Hawk Uranium Inc.
Royce Resources Corp. (TSX-V: ROY.H) announced the appointment of Gordon Keep as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary.
Petro-Reef Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: PER) announced that Alisdair Leeson has been appointed Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Company. Mr. Leeson brings twenty five(25) years of experience as a Chartered Accountant in various industries. The appointment of Mr. Leeson is in addition to the previously announced appointment of Hugh Thomson as Chief Accountant.
Bowood Energy Inc. (TSX-V: BWD) announced that it has appointed Franco Civitarese as the new Chief Financial Officer , replacing Mr. Kryczka who acted as the CFO during a period of transition for Bowood. Mr. Kryczka will now be assuming the full time role of Vice President Business Development and will remain a director of the Company. Mr. Civitarese responsibilities as CFO will extend from his current position as VP Finance and will include primary responsibility for all financial and accounting matters including the preparation of financial statements and managing the financing needs of the Company.
Pacific Cascade Minerals Inc. (TSX-V: PCV) announced the appointment of John Meekison to the Board of Directors of the Company. Mr. Meekison also has extensive experience as a Chief Financial Officer of public companies, including iCo Therapeutics Inc. and Response Biomedical Corp. He is a director of Natcore Technology Inc. and is CFO and a director of Ravenstar Ventures Inc.
Colossus Minerals Inc. (TSX: CSI) announced that Claudio Mancuso has been appointed to serve as the Company's Chief Financial Officer, replacing Steven Poad. Prior to joining Colossus, Mr. Mancuso served as Vice President, Treasurer of Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited, a position he held since January 2009. Prior to that appointment, he served Agnico-Eagle in various financial management positions. Prior to joining Agnico-Eagle in 2002, he held positions at the Ontario Securities Commission and BDO Dunwoody LLP, a public accounting firm.
Sereno Capital Corporation (TSX-V: SZZ.H) announced that David Guebert has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation.
If you have news about CFOs on the move, or any comments on this feature, please email us.
Crocodile Gold Corp. (TSX: CRK) announced that Stephen Woodhead has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Company, replacing Brad Boland. Mr. Woodhead has served in senior financial positions with several public companies, including as Chief Financial Officer of Desert Sun Mining Corp. until it was acquired by Yamana Gold Inc. in 2006. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Vaaldiam Mining Inc.
China Gold International Resources Corp. Ltd. (TSX: CGG) announced the resignation of George Law as Chief Financial Officer, and the appointment of Derrick Zhang as Interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Zhang has over 18 years of experience in financial reporting for public companies including experience leading financial reporting for mergers and acquisitions and has served as the Company's controller since January 2010.
Lyrtech Inc. (TSX-V: LTK) announced the resignation of Louis N. Bélanger as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") of the Corporation and the appointment of Vincent Bélanger who will take over the responsibility of the CFO position. Messrs. Louis and Vincent Bélanger are not related. Mr. Vincent Bélanger is chartered accountant and president of CFO Solution Inc., a company through which he provides part-time CFO services for public and private companies. He has over 20 years of experience as chartered accountant and business advisor, mainly as CFO.
Prestige Telecom Inc. (TSX-V: PR) announced today the appointment of Alain Boucher as the Company's Interim Chief Financial Officer. Jack Pulkinen who assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer since February 2009 will transfer his responsibilities to the strategic planning of the Company as Senior Vice-President Strategy.
Sparta Capital Ltd. (TSX-V: SAY) announced that Murray Hinz, has tendered his resignation from the interim position of Chief Financial Officer for Sparta. Mr. Hinz will continue in a consulting capacity with the Corporation. Ray Ludwig, currently Vice President Operations, has accepted the appointment to the additional role and responsibilities of Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Ludwig has prior Chief Financial Officer experience with public companies and has extensive prior experience in financial and business management as a consultant to public and private companies.
Focus Metals Inc. (TSX-V: FMS) announced the appointment of Judith Mazvihwa-MacLean as new Chief Financial Officer. Mrs. MacLean is replacing Khadija Abounaim who has resigned her position as CFO. Prior to joining Focus Metals Inc., Mrs. MacLean was the CFO for Logan Resources Ltd., and Acme Resources Inc. (formerly, International KRL Resources Corp.) from 2002 to 2010 and Golden Harp Resources Inc. from 2006 to 2009. She also served on the Boards of both Logan Resources Ltd., and Acme Resources Ltd.
Sunridge Investments Corp. (TSX-V: SRG) announced that following the closing of its Qualifying Transaction, Jerry Bella has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary. Mr. Bella is currently the Chief Financial Officer of TNR and Foundation Resources Inc. and has experience at the executive level of both private and public companies.
Alacer Gold Corp. (TSX: ASR) announced the appointment of Douglas Tobler as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Alacer (formerly Anatolia Minerals) in 2004, Mr. Tobler was president and founder of Falcon Strategic Partners where he provided advisory services to a number of mining, oil & gas, distribution and technology companies.
Luiri Gold Limited (TSX-V: LGL) announced that Mike Langoulant has been appointed Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary following the resignation of Peter Tanham as CFO and Company Secretary.
Petrodorado Energy Ltd. (TSX-V: PDQ) announced the appointment of Sean Bovingdon as Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, following the resignation of Alan Beaulieu.
PrimeWest Exploration Inc. (TSX-V: PWI) announced that Ross Jones has been appointed to the positions of President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation. Greg Noval has tendered his resignation as the President, Chief Executive Officer and a director of the Corporation and Manjeet Dhillon has tendered his resignation as Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation.
Saturn Minerals Inc. (TSX-V: SMI) announced that it has retained Scott Davis as its Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"). Mr. Davis' experience is extremely well suited for the position of CFO with Saturn Minerals. Mr. Davis replaces Larry Johnson who resigned as CFO.
Hy Lake Gold Inc. (CNSX: HYL) announced the appointment of Gaetan Chabot as Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Chabot has been Chief Financial Officer of several publicly traded junior mining companies for the past 5 years, including Asia Now Resources Corp. and Hawk Uranium Inc.
Royce Resources Corp. (TSX-V: ROY.H) announced the appointment of Gordon Keep as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary.
Petro-Reef Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: PER) announced that Alisdair Leeson has been appointed Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Company. Mr. Leeson brings twenty five(25) years of experience as a Chartered Accountant in various industries. The appointment of Mr. Leeson is in addition to the previously announced appointment of Hugh Thomson as Chief Accountant.
Bowood Energy Inc. (TSX-V: BWD) announced that it has appointed Franco Civitarese as the new Chief Financial Officer , replacing Mr. Kryczka who acted as the CFO during a period of transition for Bowood. Mr. Kryczka will now be assuming the full time role of Vice President Business Development and will remain a director of the Company. Mr. Civitarese responsibilities as CFO will extend from his current position as VP Finance and will include primary responsibility for all financial and accounting matters including the preparation of financial statements and managing the financing needs of the Company.
Pacific Cascade Minerals Inc. (TSX-V: PCV) announced the appointment of John Meekison to the Board of Directors of the Company. Mr. Meekison also has extensive experience as a Chief Financial Officer of public companies, including iCo Therapeutics Inc. and Response Biomedical Corp. He is a director of Natcore Technology Inc. and is CFO and a director of Ravenstar Ventures Inc.
Colossus Minerals Inc. (TSX: CSI) announced that Claudio Mancuso has been appointed to serve as the Company's Chief Financial Officer, replacing Steven Poad. Prior to joining Colossus, Mr. Mancuso served as Vice President, Treasurer of Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited, a position he held since January 2009. Prior to that appointment, he served Agnico-Eagle in various financial management positions. Prior to joining Agnico-Eagle in 2002, he held positions at the Ontario Securities Commission and BDO Dunwoody LLP, a public accounting firm.
Sereno Capital Corporation (TSX-V: SZZ.H) announced that David Guebert has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation.
If you have news about CFOs on the move, or any comments on this feature, please email us.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
6 Things Real CFOs Do Not Do
Real CFOs Don’t…
Apply to job postings – If I have one pet peeve, it is when a company puts a job posting up for a CFO. The reason it’s my pet peeve is that the only reason a Real CFO will apply to a job posting would be because he or she is not working. This is because Real CFOs are too busy to send their resume, and because Real CFOs know that any CFO job that is posted is not really a CFO job, it’s really a Controller job.
Do the accounting – They don’t manage the books, they do not do accounting research, they do not make journal entries, they do not cut cheques. Real CFOs are helping manage a business, not run an accounting department.
Assume – Real CFOs have learned over time, often before becoming a CFO, that there is a big difference between assuming they know something and actually knowing something. Real CFOs have learned from the mistakes of assumption.
Deal with audit staff– If you are a CFO and you are dealing with the manager or senior on the audit of your financial statements, you are not a Real CFO. You deal with the partner on the file. And tell him or her that the fee is too high.
Stand in the Shadow of the CEO – You give the presentations. You go on the road. You shake hands. You negotiate and you close the deal. If you are watching the CEO do this from the sidelines, you are not a Real CFO.
Melt into the crowd – A Real CFO has presence. You walk into the room, and people know you are a person with responsibility and power. People want to speak with you, want to know you and want to shake your hand.
So, are you a Real CFO?
Thank you to my partner Paul Landry for his important input in preparing this blog.
Apply to job postings – If I have one pet peeve, it is when a company puts a job posting up for a CFO. The reason it’s my pet peeve is that the only reason a Real CFO will apply to a job posting would be because he or she is not working. This is because Real CFOs are too busy to send their resume, and because Real CFOs know that any CFO job that is posted is not really a CFO job, it’s really a Controller job.
Do the accounting – They don’t manage the books, they do not do accounting research, they do not make journal entries, they do not cut cheques. Real CFOs are helping manage a business, not run an accounting department.
Assume – Real CFOs have learned over time, often before becoming a CFO, that there is a big difference between assuming they know something and actually knowing something. Real CFOs have learned from the mistakes of assumption.
Deal with audit staff– If you are a CFO and you are dealing with the manager or senior on the audit of your financial statements, you are not a Real CFO. You deal with the partner on the file. And tell him or her that the fee is too high.
Stand in the Shadow of the CEO – You give the presentations. You go on the road. You shake hands. You negotiate and you close the deal. If you are watching the CEO do this from the sidelines, you are not a Real CFO.
Melt into the crowd – A Real CFO has presence. You walk into the room, and people know you are a person with responsibility and power. People want to speak with you, want to know you and want to shake your hand.
So, are you a Real CFO?
Thank you to my partner Paul Landry for his important input in preparing this blog.
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