In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with John Sanchez, an expert in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) with over 20 years of experience. John, now the managing director of FP&A Group, discusses his journey from accounting to FP&A, the importance of effective communication in finance, and why understanding the business is crucial to delivering great financial analysis. The episode delves into how FP&A professionals can elevate their work beyond spreadsheets by getting involved with business partners and focusing on the bigger picture.

John Sanchez brings over 20 years of experience in FP&A and corporate finance. He has worked with world-class organizations such as Royal Caribbean Cruises and AutoNation, and now trains finance professionals through his consulting firm, FP&A Group. With a background in accounting and M&A, John brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to FP&A, including the importance of business acumen and communication skills for financial professionals.

Expect to Learn:

• How great FP&A professionals go beyond Excel to understand the business.
• The importance of business acumen in making impactful financial decisions.
• Why communication, especially listening, is crucial in FP&A.
• Insights on John’s career journey from accounting to FP&A.
• Practical tips for improving communication and networking in finance.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "Great FP&A is about getting out of your chair, away from Excel, and interacting with your business partners to understand how the business really works." - John Sanchez
• "Communication is everything in FP&A. If you’re not a good listener, you’re going to miss a lot." - John Sanchez
• "If you’re just good at Excel, you’ll always be an Excel monkey. You need to understand the business to truly add value." - John Sanchez

John shares valuable insights, real stories, and practical advice for anyone in FP&A. If you want to level up in finance or just learn from someone who’s been there, this episode is for you. He shares what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the key lessons he’s learned along the way.

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Follow John:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fpajohn/

Website: https://thefpagroup.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FPAFastTrack 

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.theFP&Aguy.com

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

Earn Your CPE Credit

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

In Today’s Episode

 [04:00] - What is Great FP&A?

[15:13] - From Accounting to M&A

[22:00] - The Power of Communication

[28:14] - Life Keeps Going

[37:57] - Communication in FP&A

[45:57] - Top Technical Skill

[52:38] - Get to know You

[54:32] - Superpower Question

[56:09] - Closing Remarks