What does it take to go from audit associate to CFO of a PE-backed startup? In this episode of Careers in Finance, host Meeyeon reconnects with longtime friend and finance leader Sharron Xiao to explore the career choices, transitions, and leadership lessons that shaped her journey from the Big Four to the C-suite.

This is a must-listen for anyone looking to build a future in finance, especially those considering the CPA route, a career pivot into startups, or long-term CFO goals.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Sharron navigated her early career at PwC through co-ops, exams, and structure
• Why joining a startup with no finance team was the most pivotal move she made
• What skills you must build to go from reporting roles into leadership
• How industry choice shapes your CFO potential and why timing matters
• Practical advice on networking, job search, and getting noticed by recruiters
• What to do now if you want to become a CFO later

Who this episode is for:

This episode is perfect for corporate finance professionals, especially CPAs or aspiring CFOs, who want to understand how to strategically navigate career growth. It’s also valuable for mid-career analysts, managers considering a move into startups, or anyone seeking practical advice on career planning, leadership skills, and standing out in a competitive finance job market.