In this episode, Sasha sits down with Razzak Jallow, CFO at FloQast, to discuss the evolving role of the modern CFO as a strategic partner across the organization. They dive into how he builds trust with the CEO, his approach to fostering product innovation responsibly, and why he turned down a financing round that would have doubled FloQast's valuation. Razzak also offers advice for aspiring CFOs on evaluating their first CFO role, skills like "precision Q&A", and hiring great talent

This show is a part of the Turpentine podcast network. Learn more: www.turpentine.co

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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X/Twitter:

@sashaorloff (Sasha)

@floqast (Floqast)

@turpentinemedia

TIMESTAMPS:

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Preview

(02:22) How Razzak would describe the role of CFO

(02:55) Razzak’s superpowers: hiring and working with different people

(04:28) Building trust with different colleagues across different functions and cultures

(06:31) How to be the office of “how to” rather than “no”

(08:47) Having an effective discussion when there isn’t a right answer

(11:47) Changing the culture from being a no shop to a let’s be a partner shop

(14:26) Precision Q&A

(15:24) Sponsor: Attio

(17:22) What is FloQast

(19:34) Taking on the first CFO role and evaluating fit

(21:45) Deciding not to raise at a higher valuation and why

(25:20) Having a cash war chest

(27:02) Balancing product innovation and financial discipline as CFO

(30:00) The early milestones in a new product that unlock more capital

(31:32) Getting alignment on what payback on a new product should be

(38:16) Advice to future CFOs and an underrated skill people should work on more

(41:39) Building trust with your CEO

(45:27) Wrap