In this episode, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) sits down with Dan Cotoia and Anh Tran, two accomplished finance professionals who recently completed the FP&A Certificate Program from Wharton Online in collaboration with Wall Street Prep. They share their reasons for enrolling, how the program supported their career growth, and what aspiring FP&A professionals can expect. From personal career pivots to practical tools and concepts, this conversation offers a clear and relatable look at the value of formal training in today’s finance landscape.

Dan Cotoia is a Senior Finance Director in the pharmaceutical industry with 18+ years of FP&A experience across commercial finance, R&D, and cost accounting.Anh Tran is a finance professional with a background in investment banking and regulatory finance, recently returning to corporate finance after completing the Wharton FP&A Certificate Program.

Expect to Learn:

• Why Dan and Anh chose the Wharton FP&A Certificate over other programs
• What makes the program stand out, from live interaction to practical content
• Key takeaways they applied directly to their jobs
• How much time you’ll actually spend on the coursework
• How the program supports career transitions and networking
• The role of AI and Power Query in modern FP&A training

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “The AI module helped me see where FP&A is heading. It’s not just Excel anymore.” - Dan Cotoia
• “It’s not just about learning concepts, it’s about connecting with others who live FP&A every day.” - Anh Tran

Dan Cotoia and Anh Tran shared honest, practical experiences about completing the Wharton FP&A Certificate Program.Their stories show how structured learning and the right tools can make a real difference in everyday finance work.

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Dan:

LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancotoia/

Follow Anh:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anh-tran-fpna-ccar-ppnr/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

FP&A Certificates:

FP&A Certificates is where finance professionals go to level up, stand out, and grow their careers. Built by FP&A experts for the FP&A community, this platform features the top certificate programs from Wharton Online, FPAC, CFI, FMI, and more. It’s the smartest way to compare your options, find the right fit, and get exclusive discounts. Show your commitment to FP&A and take your skills to the next level. Explore now at https://www.thefpandaguy.com/fpa-certifications

Explore the resources and discounts available:

• FPAC Program from Association of Financial Professionals (AFP)
• Use Code Exam: TheFPAGuy-FPAC – Exam for $150 Discount
• Use Code Exam Prep Platform: TheFPAGuy-FPACEPP – Exam Prep Platform for $100 Discount
• Certificate of FP&A from Wharton Online and Wall Street Prep
• https://secure.enroll.wharton.wallstreetprep.com/referral/
• Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 – $300 Program Discount
• Certified Global FP&A Professional (CGFPA) | FP&A Professionals
• Use Code: FPAGUY - $200 Program Discount
• Financial Modeler's Corner Podcast - FMI
• Code: Podcast for a 15% Program Discount
• Corporate Finance Institute (CFI) Programs
• Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA)
• Code: FPAGUY30 for a 30% discount on the FMVA and FP&A Specialization programs
• FP&A specialization
• Certification in Financial Planning & Analysis Modeling (CFPAM™) | Wall Street Prep

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:05] - Dan and Anh’s Backgrounds

[06:33] - Defining Great FP&A

[10:31] - Why Anh Chose Wharton

[15:55] - Team Reaction to Dan Upskilling

[17:47] - Cohort and Community Experience

[24:27] - Anh’s Takeaways and Connections

[27:29] - Dan’s Practical Learnings

[31:44] - How Anh Built Her FP&A Network

[38:51] - Favorite Modules and Tools

[50:16] - Key FP&A Skills Today

In this episode Host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) sits down with Elias Apel, the CEO of Lucanet, to explore the evolving landscape of financial planning and analysis. From transforming the Office of the CFO with AI to driving strategic acquisitions, Elias shares how he’s leading Lucanet through hypergrowth and innovation while staying grounded in customer-centric leadership.

Elias Apel is the CEO of Lucanet, a global provider of “Office of the CFO” software solutions for enterprises and SMEs. Founded in 1999, Lucanet offers tools for financial planning, consolidation, ESG reporting, tax compliance, and treasury management. The company supports nearly 6,000 customers in over 50 countries, with offices across Germany, Europe, the UK, Asia, and North America. Elias previously served as Lucanet’s CFO and VP of International Go-to-Market. He is also the co-founder of Argonas Corporate Finance Advisors, specializing in complex M&A and financing transactions.

Expect to Learn:

• What makes FP&A truly impactful and strategic
• How to build trust across finance functions
• Leveraging AI to boost financial operations
• Transitioning from advisor to successful CEO
• Integrating data analytics under finance leadership
• Strategy behind Lucanet’s acquisition of Causal

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Communication is the most important soft skill for any finance business partner."
• "Data analytics is the number one technical skill FP&A professionals should master today."
• "A modern CFO needs to be commercially minded, not just financially accurate."

Elias Apel shares valuable knowledge on leading through transformation, leveraging AI, and redefining the role of the CFO. He emphasizes the importance of trust, data-driven decision-making, and staying customer-focused. Whether you're in FP&A or executive leadership, his journey offers inspiration for building an agile, future-ready finance team. 

Operators Guild:

Operators Guild is where the best CEOs, CFOs, VPs of finance, and BizOps leaders in the business connect, network, and grow together. Built by operators for operators, this members-only community is home to more than 1000 of the most elite high-growth operators in the world. Experience connection and knowledge share with professionals who understand you like no one else does. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3F6sghS

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Elias:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliasapel/

Website - https://www.lucanet.com/en/solutions/extended-planning-and-analysis/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:51] - Introduction to the Episode

[03:34] - Defining Great FP&A

[09:18] - From M&A Advisor to CEO

[14:49] - Shifting from Operator to Strategic Leader

[19:31] - Why Roles Beyond Finance Matter

[25:36] - Embedding Data to Empower Finance Teams

[27:26] - The Evolving Role of the CFO

[35:51] - The Thinking Behind Lucanet’s M&A Strategy

[47:31] - Top Technical Skill for FP&A Professionals

[54:01] - Final Thoughts and Career Advice

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka the FP&A Guy) welcomes Glenn Snyder, a seasoned FP&A leader with over 20 years of experience. Glenn shares insights on financial planning and analysis, leadership strategies, and building effective business partnerships. He discusses the keys to driving business impact, managing teams, and navigating career growth in FP&A.

Glenn Snyder is a Senior Director at Riverrun Consulting, specializing in interim financial leadership. With a career spanning financial services, fintech, SaaS, private equity, and more, he has held leadership roles at Franklin Templeton, Visa, Charles Schwab, and Digital Realty. Glenn is also an author, educator, and board member, passionate about mentoring finance professionals and improving FP&A effectiveness.

Expect to Learn:

• The key elements of great FP&A and how it drives executive decisions
• How to balance company goals with employee career development
• Strategies for building strong business partnerships in FP&A
• The role of automation and efficiency in FP&A reporting and analysis
• How to successfully transition into a new leadership role
• Overcoming resistance from business leaders and earning trust in finance
• The importance of storytelling and data visualization in financial reporting

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “The best leaders give credit to their teams and create opportunities for them to shine.” - Glenn Snyder
• Your career growth is your responsibility. Stay curious, stay connected, and keep learning.” - Glenn Snyder
• “You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, but you must be the most adaptable.” - Glenn Snyder

In this episode, Glenn Snyder shared his expertise on what makes FP&A impactful, how to lead finance teams, and the importance of strong business partnerships. He emphasized that great FP&A professionals don’t just report numbers, they drive decisions, build trust, and continuously improve processes. Being proactive, investing in relationships, and focusing on delivering insights, not just reports, are key. Success in FP&A comes from adapting, influencing, and always adding value.

Operator’s Guild:

Operators Guild is where the best CEOs, CFOs, VPs of finance, and BizOps leaders in the business connect, network, and grow together. Built by operators for operators, this members-only community is home to more than 1000 of the most elite high-growth operators in the world. Experience connection and knowledge share with professionals who understand you like no one else does. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3F6sghS

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Glenn:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenntsnyder/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

FP&A Community Hub:

Tired of searching for answers and sifting through sales pitches? The FP&A Hub is your go-to online community where finance professionals connect, learn, and grow without the distractions of sales pitches or generic LinkedIn content. Engage in real conversations, attend exclusive events, and gain insights from over 100 FP&A experts.

Be a part of the future of FP&A networking. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3DQWLrJ

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:39] - Introduction to the Episode

[04:12] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[09:17] - Transitioning to Leadership

[14:49] - Balancing Change in a New Role

[18:20] - Early Leadership Challenges

[23:36] - Flexibility in FP&A

[27:03] - Playing Sponge

[34:16] - Managing Career Growth

[46:51] - The #1 Technical Skill for FP&A

[59:32] - Great Advice for FP&A

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (The FP&A Guy) sits down with Jeff Casale and Rich Wagner to explore the role of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). They discuss how AI, external data, and continuous planning are transforming the industry, making FP&A a more strategic function. The conversation covers the power of AI-driven forecasting and how businesses can leverage external economic indicators to gain a competitive edge.

Jeff Casale is the CEO of Board, a leading FP&A software company. With previous leadership roles at MarkLogic, Dell Technologies, VMware, and EMC, Jeff has a deep understanding of enterprise technology and how finance functions can drive business growth. Rich Wagner is the Field CTO at Board and the former CEO & Founder of Prevedere, a predictive analytics company that leverages external data for accurate forecasting. With over 20 years of experience in technology, consulting, and Fortune 500 leadership, Rich brings valuable expertise in the intersection of AI, finance, and business strategy.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is transforming financial planning, reducing manual work, and improving decision-making.
• Why integrating external data is essential for more accurate forecasting and risk management.
• Why traditional budgeting cycles are outdated and how real-time, agile forecasting is becoming the new norm.
• How CEOs and finance leaders rely on FP&A teams for strategic decision-making.
• How finance professionals can improve their skills and become more valuable business partners.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “AI is revolutionizing FP&A by reducing manual work and improving time-to-value.” - Rich Wagner
• “The companies that embrace continuous planning will be the winners in their industries.” - Jeff Casale
• “External data helps FP&A teams anticipate risks, not just react to them.” - Rich Wagner

This episode reinforced the idea that FP&A is evolving into a strategic powerhouse. AI, external economic data, and real-time forecasting are changing how companies plan, react, and make decisions. FP&A professionals must develop both technical and strategic skills to stay relevant.

Operator’s Guild:

Operators Guild is where the best CEOs, CFOs, VPs of finance, and BizOps leaders in the business connect, network, and grow together. Built by operators for operators, this members-only community is home to more than 1000 of the most elite high-growth operators in the world. Experience connection and knowledge share with professionals who understand you like no one else does. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3F6sghS

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Jeff:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreycasale/

Board- https://www.board.com/

Follow Rich:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-wagner1/

Prevedere - https://prevedere.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:49] - Welcome & Guest Introductions

[03:53] - What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[06:22] - Why Enter the FP&A Software Space?

[08:05] - Acquiring Prevedere: The Strategy Behind It

[14:28] - How External Data Improves Forecasting

[18:54] - How AI is Changing FP&A

[24:29] - How FP&A Teams Can Start Using External Data

[33:57] - The Shift to Continuous Planning

[41:50] - FP&A’s Role in Leadership & Decision-Making

[47:48] - The #1 Skill for FP&A Professionals

[56:33] - Who Would You Swap Jobs With?

[59:53] - Final Thoughts & Where to Learn More

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (The FP&A Guy) welcomes Albert Ramos. He shares his thoughts about financial planning and analysis (FP&A), the role of AI in finance, and how businesses can leverage predictive analytics to make better strategic decisions. They also discuss pricing strategy, AI adoption, and the growing importance of financial professionals transitioning into advisory roles. 

Albert Ramos is a fractional CFO, AI strategist, and the founder of Stratego Intel Consulting, an AI-powered fractional CFO and virtual Chief AI Officer firm. With 15 years of executive leadership across finance, operations, sales, and technology, Albert has worked with publicly traded, private equity-backed, and employee-owned companies. He is a strong advocate for mental health awareness in high-pressure industries, emphasizing how AI can help reduce stress and improve efficiency.

Expect to Learn:

• How AI and predictive analytics are shaping the future of finance.
• Why businesses often get pricing wrong and how FP&A can help fix it.
• How AI and agent-based automation are streamlining financial processes.
• Transitioning into a strategic business partner and the key skills required.
• How AI tools can help reduce anxiety, stress, and improve work-life balance.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “AI won’t replace finance professionals, but those who use AI will replace those who don’t.”
• “AI can enhance financial modeling, but the human element of strategic thinking is irreplaceable.”
• “Companies that ignore AI today will be struggling to catch up in the next two years.”

Albert explains how AI is revolutionizing finance, why pricing strategy is critical for business success, and how finance professionals can future-proof their careers by evolving into strategic advisors. He also shared an important perspective on mental health, emphasizing how AI can help reduce stress by automating repetitive tasks, allowing finance professionals to focus on higher-value work.

Operator’s Guild:

Operators Guild is where the best CEOs, CFOs, VPs of finance, and BizOps leaders in the business connect, network, and grow together. Built by operators for operators, this members-only community is home to more than 1000 of the most elite high-growth operators in the world. Experience connection and knowledge share with professionals who understand you like no one else does. Learn more and apply at https://bit.ly/3F6sghS

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Albert:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertramosjr/

Company - https://www.strategointel.com/

Email - [email protected]

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:38] - Meet Albert Ramos

[04:16] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[06:56] - Pricing Strategy Mistakes & Best Practices

[15:20] - Albert’s Experience in Fitness Industry

[19:08] - Going Full-Time as a Fractional CFO

[23:19] - AI tools and agentic workflows

[28:06] - The Future of AI in FP&A

[41:43] - AI’s Impact on Mental Health & Work-Life Balance

[48:08] - How to Get Started with AI in Finance

[51:46] - FP&A Quickfire Questions

[01:00:10] - Where to Find Albert Ramos

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka The FP&A Guy, sits down with Hugh Cumming, the CTO of Vena Solutions. They explore how AI and technology are transforming financial planning and analysis (FP&A) by discussing real-world AI implementations. With over 20 years of experience in fintech and digital transformation, Hugh shares his perspectives on AI-driven efficiency, the evolving role of FP&A professionals, and the future of Excel in financial modeling.

Hugh Cumming is the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Vena Solutions, a leading FP&A platform for Excel users. Hugh has led global teams in engineering, UX, cloud computing, and AI-driven innovation at companies like Finastra, SecureKey Technologies, ADP Canada, and Manulife. Hugh talks about his passion for using technology to drive efficiency and smarter decision-making, and helping to overcome change resistance in finance teams

Expect to Learn:

• How AI is reshaping FP&A workflows and automating financial reporting.
• The role of AI-powered copilots in driving business efficiencies.
• Why change resistance in FP&A is common and how to overcome it.
• The future of Excel, Python, and automation in financial modeling.
• Practical advice for FP&A professionals to prepare for AI-driven changes.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “One of the biggest barriers to AI adoption in FP&A is simply finding the time to implement it.”
• “AI-driven tools should feel like an extension of your team, not an external system you have to fight against.”
• “When you start using AI for small tasks, you quickly realize how much time you’ve been wasting on manual work.”

Hugh Cumming provided incredible knowledge about how AI-powered tools like Vena Copilot are helping finance teams become more efficient, strategic, and data-driven. Excel isn’t going anywhere, but it’s getting smarter. AI isn’t replacing people, but it’s making their work more valuable. As Hugh emphasized, those who adapt and leverage these innovations will thrive in the evolving financial landscape. 

The AFP FP&A Forum:

The Association for Financial Professionals FP&A Forum, March 17–19 in Austin, is the must-attend event for finance professionals seeking sales-free, expert-led insights on AI, process efficiency and strategic planning. With 18+ actionable sessions and a community of peers, this forum is all about real learning, no fluff—join us and take your finance game to the next level.

Explore the agenda: https://bit.ly/40W1eCh

Use the code FPAGuy2025 for $200 off: https://bit.ly/40Cts3B

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Hugh:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hughwcumming/

Company - https://www.venasolutions.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:44] - Meet Hugh Cumming

[02:53] - What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[06:27] - Hugh’s Early Start with Programming 

[09:38] - The Rise of AI in FP&A

[14:44] - Vena’s Vision for AI in FP&A

[19:28] - Managing AI Hallucinations & Building Trust

[26:23] - Real AI Use Cases in FP&A

[29:13] - Advice for FP&A Professionals on AI Adoption

[32:42] - The Future of Excel & AI

[35:18] - Rapid-Fire Questions

[42:54] - Closing Thoughts & Where to Connect

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka "The FP&A Guy") sits down with Chris Walker to explore the intersection of finance, marketing, and sales. They break down why most companies struggle with measuring the return on go-to-market investments and how finance teams can step up to own and optimize this critical function. Chris shares his unconventional yet data-driven approach to revenue operations, highlighting how traditional marketing and sales attribution models are broken and what companies should do instead.

Chris Walker is a visionary in B2B go-to-market strategies. As the CEO of Pasetto and Executive Chairman of Refine Labs, he is shaping the future of revenue operations by integrating finance, marketing, and sales intelligence. With years of hands-on experience in sales, marketing, and finance, Chris brings a unique perspective to understanding and improving go-to-market efficiency.

Expect to Learn:

• Why go-to-market investments are often misallocated and how finance can take ownership of optimizing them.
• The biggest mistakes companies make when measuring marketing ROI and sales effectiveness.
• How finance leaders can work more strategically with marketing and sales teams to drive profitable growth.
• The importance of rethinking attribution models and revenue operations frameworks.
• Why Chris believes that FP&A should play an offensive, not defensive, role in shaping business strategy.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “Finance leaders need to stop looking at marketing as an expense and start seeing it as an investment portfolio.”
• “Marketing attribution models are fundamentally broken because they try to divide credit rather than measure impact.”
• “Go-to-market investments are often misallocated because finance and marketing don’t speak the same language.”

In this episode, Chris Walker delivers a wake-up call to finance and revenue leaders, urging them to rethink how they measure and optimize go-to-market investments. If FP&A wants to drive better business decisions, it must stop looking at marketing as an expense and start managing it like an investment portfolio. By adopting a data-driven, strategic approach to go-to-market, finance teams can help their companies grow more efficiently and profitably.

The AFP FP&A Forum:

The Association for Financial Professionals FP&A Forum, March 17–19 in Austin, is the must-attend event for finance professionals seeking sales-free, expert-led insights on AI, process efficiency and strategic planning. With 18+ actionable sessions and a community of peers, this forum is all about real learning, no fluff—join us and take your finance game to the next level.

Explore the agenda: https://bit.ly/40W1eCh

Use the code FPAGuy2025 for $200 off: https://bit.ly/40Cts3B

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Chris:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswalker171/

Company - https://www.passetto.com/

Website - https://www.refinelabs.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:35] - Introduction to the Episode

[03:33] - What Great FP&A Looks Like

[04:43] - Why Go-to-Market Efficiency is Broken

[07:23] - The Role of FP&A in Go-to-Market

[11:01] - Rethinking Marketing & Sales Attribution

[18:36] - The Shift from Growth-at-All-Costs to Efficiency

[26:40] - Chris’s Companies & Their Mission

[33:41] - Practical Steps To Better Understand Go-to-Market

[41:06] - Evaluating Marketing Investments

[48:10] - The Right Way to Measure Content Marketing

[53:15] - Content Strategy for Business Growth

[58:34] - Inbound And Outbound Marketing Strategies

[01:10:47] - Final Thoughts & Wrap-up

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst (aka The FP&A Guy) sits down with Ritu Saxena, a chartered accountant, career coach, and founder of Project Upgrade Her. Ritu shares insights on transitioning into business partnering, building a strong personal brand, and empowering women to elevate their careers with confidence.

Ritu is an accomplished finance professional and career coach with over 13 years of experience spanning investment banking, Big Four consulting, and commercial finance in India and New Zealand. She is the founder of Project Upgrade Her, a platform dedicated to helping women increase their career confidence and earning potential. Ritu has also been recognized as one of the Top 20 Chartered Accountants to Watch in Australia and New Zealand.

Expect to Learn:

• Going beyond budgeting and forecasting to provide strategic insights.
• How to transition into business partnering and key skills required.
• Why it’s essential for career growth to build a strong personal brand.
• The power of networking and how it can open unexpected doors in your career.
• Strategies for advocating for yourself and stepping into leadership roles.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “Meeting people where they are and speaking their language is what makes a great business partner.”
• “The ability to be concise and communicate the ‘why’ behind the numbers is an underrated but essential skill.”
• “Trust is built when you consistently deliver value, flag risks proactively, and help stakeholders make better decisions.”

Ritu shared invaluable advice on transitioning into business partnering, building a strong personal brand, and taking control of your career growth. She highlights the importance of advocating for yourself and never letting your job title define your potential.

The AFP FP&A Forum:

The Association for Financial Professionals FP&A Forum, March 17–19 in Austin, is the must-attend event for finance professionals seeking sales-free, expert-led insights on AI, process efficiency and strategic planning. With 18+ actionable sessions and a community of peers, this forum is all about real learning, no fluff—join us and take your finance game to the next level.

Explore the agenda: https://bit.ly/40W1eCh

Use the code FPAGuy2025 for $200 off: https://bit.ly/40Cts3B

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Ritu:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritusaxena1/

Company - https://www.projectupgradeher.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[02:25] - Introduction to Ritu Saxena

[04:04] - What Makes Great FP&A?

[07:06] - Ritu’s Unconventional Career Path

[11:51] - Project Upgrade Her: A Mission to Empower Women

[16:51] - Breaking Into Business Partnering

[24:52] - The Three Key Skills for Business Partnering Success

[33:28] - Personal Branding for Career Growth

[45:36] - Must-Have FP&A Skills

[48:40] - Fun Segment: Getting to Know Ritu

[52:31] - Final Advice from Ritu

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, known as "The FP&A Guy," welcomes returning guest Ron Monteiro. Ron is a seasoned finance professional turned author who shares highlights from his new book, Love Mondays!, which looks into finding joy in your work life, particularly in the finance and FP&A sectors. Together, they explore how mindset, workplace culture, and personal development play pivotal roles in career satisfaction.

Ron Monteiro is a finance veteran with over 20 years of experience in FP&A roles at companies like Kraft, Campbell Soup, and Kruger Products. He has served as VP of Finance and is now an entrepreneur focused on teaching storytelling and communication in finance. Ron's journey from a shy, anxious teenager in Kenya to leading meetings with CEOs is a testament to his growth and resilience. His latest book, Love Mondays!, aims to help people across all professions find joy in their work and personal lives.

Expect to Learn:

• The story behind Love Mondays! and how Ron transitioned from corporate finance to author.
• Why attitude and environment are equally important in finding fulfillment at work.
• Practical steps to identify your purpose using frameworks like Ikigai.
• How networking and mentorship can transform your career trajectory.
• Strategies to avoid burnout in demanding FP&A roles and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• “A boss can make or break your experience early in your career, but as you grow, it’s the culture and mentors that shape you.”
• “Gratitude is a game-changer. It’s hard to be unhappy when you’re focused on what’s going well.”
• “Surround yourself with people who uplift you. The right network can open doors you didn’t even know existed.”

It’s clear that loving your work and yes, even your Mondays is about more than just the role you’re in. It’s about your mindset, your environment, and the intentional steps you take toward fulfillment. Whether you're deep in FP&A or exploring a completely different path, Ron’s four-step framework offers a roadmap to not just surviving your workweek but truly thriving in it.

The AFP FP&A Forum:

The Association for Financial Professionals FP&A Forum, March 17–19 in Austin, is the must-attend event for finance professionals seeking sales-free, expert-led insights on AI, process efficiency and strategic planning. With 18+ actionable sessions and a community of peers, this forum is all about real learning, no fluff—join us and take your finance game to the next level.

Explore the agenda: https://bit.ly/40W1eCh

Use the code FPAGuy2025 for $200 off: https://bit.ly/40Cts3B

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Ron:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronmonteiro18/

Check out Book: Love Mondays! - https://lovemondaysbook.com/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Planning in BI Showcase:

Gone are the days of juggling multiple platforms. Now, with business intelligence tools you can integrate planning directly into your BI system. Join Paul on March 20th for the Planning in BI Showcase, where industry leaders will demonstrate how top BI tools are reshaping strategic planning. See firsthand how modern FP&A solutions can drive real value across your enterprise. Don’t miss out!

Register today for free at https://bit.ly/4aLzEe0

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:29] - Introduction to the Episode & Guest

[02:12] - Ron's Journey: From Kenya to Finance Leadership

[04:12] - Inspiration Behind the Book - Love Mondays!

[05:13] - Do Finance Professionals Love Mondays?

[07:55] - The Role of Bosses and Company Culture

[10:09] - The Power of Networking and Building Career Resilience

[14:08] - Burnout in FP&A and Taking Control

[19:06] - The Four-Step Framework to Love Mondays!

[30:23] - Practical Advice for Career Shifts

[43:57] - Final Thoughts & Where to Find Love Mondays!

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Andrew Hull, a seasoned finance leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. They explore the role of FP&A professionals in driving business results, navigating inflation, and transitioning from traditional budgeting to impactful analytics.

Andrew Hull is a financial executive with over two decades of experience in CPG. Currently the Vice President of Finance at UNFI Canada, Andrew has a proven track record of partnering with business leaders to deliver results through strategic insights and principled financial analysis. With a competitive spirit and passion for team leadership, Andrew shares his unique approach to FP&A, analytics, and the importance of actionable storytelling.

Expect to Learn:

• The three pillars of great FP&A: technical skills, storytelling, and actionable decisions.
• Why Andrew advocates for changing FP&A to “FA&P” and focusing more on analytics.
• Lessons learned from leading finance during the pandemic.
• Key metrics for success in the distribution industry, including variable margin and truck utilization.
• Practical advice for accelerating budget processes and focusing on analytics that drive results.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "The most value FP&A can add is when we take complex data and distill it into actionable insights." - Andrew Hull
• "Variable margin is the backbone of understanding financial performance in a distribution business."- Andrew Hull
• "A one-page visual with clear recommendations is the best way to communicate with executives."- Andrew Hull

In this episode, Andrew Hull shared a wealth of knowledge for FP&A professionals including rethinking the role of analytics to the importance of actionable storytelling. His practical advice on managing inflation, leading during a crisis, and accelerating the budgeting process offers valuable lessons.

FP&A Your Way with Paris Technologies:

PARIS Technologies delivers an enterprise planning platform in Excel, which makes FP&A work a breeze! Centralize and consolidate cloud data into a self-service, collaborative modeling environment featuring the everyday spreadsheet. Visit PARIS Tech for FP&A Your Way!

Follow FP&A Tomorrow:

Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6957679529595162624 

Follow Andrew:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhull4/

Follow Paul: 

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy

Enroll for Wharton Online Certificate Program:

Sign up for the 8 week online financial planning & analysis certificate program by Wharton Online and learn the art of forecasting, analysis, business partnering and financial storytelling: https://bit.ly/4debs46 Use Code: THEFPAGUY300 to save $300.

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[01:59] - Meet Andrew Hull

[02:50] - Redefining Great FP&A

[06:46] - Career Highlights in CPG

[10:35] - Leading Finance at UNFI Canada

[18:55] - Managing Inflation with Analytics

[22:24] - The Art of Storytelling in FP&A

[35:47] - Revolutionizing the Budget Process

[51:20] - Beyond Work: Hobbies and Passions

[58:07] - Closing Thoughts