The FP&A Guy Network

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Paul Medici, founder and CEO of Medici Financial Modeling. They dive into the art and science of financial modeling, sharing horror stories, insights, and practical tips on how to avoid common pitfalls. The discussion revolves around the importance of simplicity and structure, and how mastering the fundamentals can save time and deliver better results.

Today’s guest is Paul Medici, the Founder and CEO of Medici Financial Modeling. With over a decade of experience, Paul specializes in building bespoke financial models and custom data automation tools for corporate clients across the US, Canada, and Europe. His expertise spans a wide range of industries, including financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, mining, real estate, retail, technology, and even charitable organizations. He holds an MBA from the University of Toronto and a Master’s in Geological Science and Engineering from Queen’s University.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• The most common mistakes in bad financial models and how to avoid them.
• How a background in geology led Paul Medici to a career in financial modeling.
• The importance of understanding revenue and cost build-ups in different industries.
• Why practicing financial modeling on personal projects can enhance your skills.
• Key shortcuts and techniques to speed up your Excel modeling process.

Here are a few quotes from Paul Medici:

• "All bad models have one thing in common: they're not user-friendly, difficult to update, and time-consuming." - Paul Medici
• "Most corporate models start simple but turn into 'Frankenstein' models over time as people add complexity." - Paul Medici
• "If you're thinking about financial modeling, practice by building models for everyday tasks like personal budgets." - Paul Medici
• "The key to mastering financial modeling is understanding how the financial statements and supporting schedules link together." - Paul Medici

From his early career in geology to teaching advanced Excel at top investment banks, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation. He emphasizes the importance of building user-friendly models, practicing regularly, and finding the right balance between complexity and functionality.

Follow Paul Medici:

• Website - https://medicifinancialmodeling.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmedici/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:27] - Introduction to the episode and guest 

[03:15] - The worst financial model story and lessons learned.

[07:17] - Career transition from Geology to Finance

[12:40] - Challenges in modeling different industries

[19:22] - Favorite industries and financial models

[22:17] - Bespoke data automation tools

[25:47] - Teaching Excel and financial modeling courses

[34:29] - Advice for FMI Certification

[39:03] - Rapid fire: financial modeling preferences

[44:13] - Final advice and contact information

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Jim Caltabiano, a seasoned finance leader with over 30 years of experience in financial planning and analysis (FP&A) across various industries, including consumer packaged goods and food and beverage. The discussion centers around the evolving role of FP&A, the importance of insights over data, and strategies for building effective finance teams that can drive business value.

Jim Caltabiano brings a wealth of knowledge from his extensive career in FP&A and finance leadership roles at major companies such as Procter & Gamble, General Mills, Campbell Soup Company, Ajinomoto Foods, and Del Monte Foods. With a background in both finance and marketing, Jim offers a unique perspective on how FP&A professionals can go beyond traditional financial functions to become true business partners.

Expect to Learn:

1. Insights over data and the importance of connecting financial insights to drive business decisions.
2. Strategies to move from a siloed finance function to a business-first approach.
3. How FP&A professionals can better understand and contribute to business goals.
4. Techniques for making sound decisions when data is less than perfect.
5. Insights from Jim’s experience as a CTO on the role of data cleanliness and AI in future finance functions.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "Great FP&A is all about the insights. It's all about being able to connect insights for the business." - Jim Caltabiano
• "Thinking of data as a product rather than just a system changes how you manage and use it." - Jim Caltabiano
• "Active listening is the most underutilized skill in business; it’s key to building relationships and understanding the business." - Jim Caltabiano

In this episode, Jim Caltabiano shares valuable insights on the evolving role of FP&A professionals in today's dynamic business environment. By adopting a holistic approach to data, leveraging multiple data sources, and focusing on active listening, FP&A professionals can elevate their role from number crunchers to strategic business partners. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their FP&A skills and drive meaningful impact within their organization.

Follow Jim:

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

Email - [email protected]

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: 

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis 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

[01:24] - Introduction to the episode and the guest, Jim Caltabiano

[02:38] - Defining great FP&A and the importance of insights

[04:50] - Jim’s career journey and professional background

[07:12] - Jim’s philosophy of business first, function second

[12:19] - Strategy for learning new businesses as an FP&A professional

[17:06] - Techniques for FP&A professionals to provide insights beyond reports

[25:00] - Managing data quality issues and incomplete information

[28:11] - Insights from Jim’s tenure as Chief Technology Officer

[38:27] - Discussion on the use of generative AI in FP&A

[40:51] - Quick insights on essential technical and soft skills 

[49:30] - Closing thoughts and how to connect with Jim

In this episode of the "Financial Modelers Corner," host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Gilbert Hangartner, a financial modeler with a background in science. The discussion delves into the intricacies of financial modeling, the importance of simplicity in model construction, and the application of Monte Carlo simulations to understand risk. Gilbert shares his insights on how to approach financial modeling by asking the right questions rather than having complex formulas.

Gilbert Hangartner is a seasoned financial modeler who transitioned from a career in science, specializing in chemistry and physics, to financial modeling and risk analysis. His scientific training gives him a unique perspective on financial modeling, treating it as both a creative process and a technical discipline. Gilbert emphasizes the importance of simplicity and clarity in building effective models and is an advocate for using models as tools for communication and strategic decision-making.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• Understanding the importance of simplicity in modeling 
• The debate on whether financial modeling is more of an art or a science
• Simplifying a problem and understanding the question before diving into model building.
• Introduction to Monte Carlo simulations for risk management
• A discussion on the limitations of Excel and future of financial modeling

Here are a few quotes from Gilbert Hangartner:

• "A good model is not about complexity; it's about clarity and answering the right question." - Gilbert Hangartner
• "For me, modeling is a creative act, much like writing a song or painting a picture." - Gilbert Hangartner
• "Multi-dimensional modeling is key; real-world problems are never just two-dimensional." - Gilbert Hangartner
• "The future of financial modeling lies beyond Excel; it’s time for more advanced, structured tools." - Gilbert Hangartner

In this episode, Gilbert Hangartner offers a fresh perspective on the world of financial modeling and challenges the conventional wisdom that financial models must be complex to be effective. Whether you're a seasoned modeler or just starting out, Gilbert's insights on Monte Carlo simulations provide valuable guidance on how to enhance your modeling skills and approach.

Follow Gilbert:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilbert-hangartner-71754047/

 Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:16] - Introduction to the episode and the guest, Gilbert Hangartner

[01:57] - The worst financial model horror story shared by Gilbert

[04:42] - Discussion on the importance of simplicity in financial modeling

[06:10] - Gilbert explains his transition from science to financial modeling

[10:11] - Art or Science? The nature of financial modeling

[13:45] - Strategies for asking the right questions when building a model

[17:16] - An overview of Monte Carlo simulations for risk modeling

[28:31] - The advantages of Quantrix over Excel 

[44:47] - A contrarian view on the future of Excel in financial modeling

[47:48] - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, we dive into the evolving landscape of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) with a focus on finance transformation. Leslie Stuart, a seasoned expert in FP&A and finance transformation, shares her insights on how modern finance functions are adapting to new technologies, data management practices, and process improvements to drive better business outcomes.

Leslie Stuart is the Director of Financial Planning & Analysis at Walmart Canada and a certified CPA. With a robust background in accounting, auditing, and operational finance, Leslie has been at the forefront of finance transformation, leading initiatives that integrate cutting-edge technology with traditional finance functions. Her career journey from external audit to leading finance transformations offers valuable lessons for anyone involved in or aspiring to drive financial excellence.

Expect to Learn:

• The importance of data quality and its impact on business decisions.
• Strategies for successfully managing finance transformation projects.
• How to navigate challenges in data management, from garbage data to valuable insights.
• The role of technology, including AI, in modernizing FP&A processes.
• Tips for engaging teams and fostering change in finance departments.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode 

• "Data and technology are often the easier pieces; the real challenge is with people and processes." - Leslie Stuart
• "Starting with a strong foundation in processes and controls is critical to any successful transformation." - Leslie Stuart
• "AI and machine learning are the way of the future for finance—helping us work more efficiently and effectively." - Leslie Stuart

In this insightful episode, Leslie Stuart takes us through the intricate process of finance transformation, emphasizing the importance of data quality, the role of technology, and the critical need for effective communication and process management. Her practical advice and personal experiences offer a roadmap for those looking to navigate the complexities of modern FP&A.

Follow Leslie:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-stuart/

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: 

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis 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

[01:31] - Introduction to the episode 

[02:17] - Leslie’s career journey and background

[02:46] - Discussion about evolution of FP&A

[08:07] - Leslie explains her transition from audit to FP&A

[12:35] - Managing large-scale finance transformations

[20:18] - Project management approaches in finance transformations

[31:14] - The Role of AI in FP&A

[37:06] - Continuous evolution in finance

[49:13] - Final thoughts and conclusion

In this episode of the Future Finance Show, hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on financial planning and analysis (FP&A). The discussion revolves around how AI tools, from generative AI to sophisticated models like OpenAI's Project Strawberry, are reshaping the finance landscape. The episode features Gabriela Gutierrez, a finance professional turned AI enthusiast, who shares her journey of integrating AI into finance.

Gabriela Gutierrez is a dynamic finance leader and entrepreneur with a strong background in AI, Python programming, and machine learning. She has worked in various financial roles, including FP&A at eBay and as a local CFO for Teads in Germany. Gabriela’s passion for innovation led her to launch a stealth startup focused on AI-powered finance solutions. She shares her insights into the evolving role of finance professionals in the AI era and her experiences in building an AI-centric company.

In this episode, you will discover:

• The potential of AI to automate and enhance FP&A processes.
• Insights into OpenAI's Project Strawberry and its implications for the finance industry.
• The skills finance professionals need to thrive in an AI-driven world.
• How Gabriela Gutierrez transitioned from traditional finance roles to becoming an AI-driven entrepreneur.
• Predictions on the future of finance jobs in the context of advancing AI technologies.

It's clear that the intersection of AI and finance offers both exciting opportunities and unique challenges. This episode provides a wealth of knowledge for finance professionals to embrace AI as a tool for innovation, efficiency, and strategic growth.

Follow Gabriela:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriela-gutierrez-15ba0571/

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Glenn:

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

Follow Paul:

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

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://qflow.ai/future-finance

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[00:59] - Introduction to the episode

[01:43] - Key takeaways from Carl Seidman’s FP&A insights

[07:02] - Exploring OpenAI’s project Strawberry

[11:58] - Gabriela Gutierrez background and career journey

[16:39] - Overcoming challenges in AI integration

[19:51] - Insights on Gabriela’s Stealth Startup

[26:29] - Fun segment: get to know Gabriela

[30:31] - Conclusion and episode wrap-up

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, host Paul Barnhurst is joined by Giles Male, who brings his unique perspective on the rapidly changing landscape of financial modeling. Together, they explore how the latest advancements in Excel—such as dynamic arrays and Lambda functions—are revolutionizing the way financial models are built and used. Giles also provides invaluable advice on the importance of simplicity, adaptability, and effective communication in modeling.

Giles Male is a CMA-qualified accountant and a seasoned financial modeler with extensive experience in bid analysis and complex financial modeling. As a co-founder of Full Stack Modeler, Giles is passionate about training and mentoring the next generation of financial modelers. He holds the prestigious Master Financial Modeler (MFM) accreditation from the Financial Modeling Institute, making him one of only seven individuals worldwide to have achieved this honor. Giles brings a wealth of knowledge on modern Excel and its application in financial modeling.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• The importance of embracing modern Excel techniques, including dynamic arrays and Lambda functions.
• Insights into the changing landscape of financial modeling and why simplicity is often more effective than complexity.
• The challenges and rewards of transitioning from traditional modeling methods to modern approaches.
• How Giles's experiences in ultra-marathon running have influenced his approach to problem-solving and pushing beyond perceived limits in both personal and professional contexts.
• Practical advice on maintaining model integrity, including the use of structured standards like FAST or SMART while adapting to specific project needs.

Here are a few quotes from Giles Male:

• "Simplicity is the biggest lesson I’ve learned in my career. Complex models might seem impressive, but they’re often impractical." - Giles Male
• "A good financial model should be as complex as it needs to be, but as simple as possible." - Giles Male
• "There’s a visibility fog when reviewing your own models. Stepping away and coming back later is essential." - Giles Male

In this episode, Giles Male offers a wealth of insights into the evolving world of financial modeling. He emphasizes the importance of simplicity, the transformative power of modern Excel, and the critical need for clear communication in model design. As the industry continues to evolve, Giles’s focus on adaptability, continuous learning, and user-centric design serves as a guide for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike.

Follow Giles:

• Website - https://www.fullstackmodeller.com/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/giles-male-30643b15/

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register. 

In today’s episode:

[01:18] - Introduction to the topic and guest Giles Male

[05:31] - Lessons from complex models

[07:12] - Giles shares his career journey into financial modeling

[16:10] - Achieving master financial modeler accreditation

[17:19] - Giles shares practical project insights

[28:42] - Defining advanced modeling skills

[34:00] - The future of excel and financial modeling

[41:50] - Excel shortcuts and best practices

[47:47] - Conclusion and contact information

In this insightful episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst dives into the future of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) with Dr. Liran Edelist, a seasoned expert with over 30 years of experience in finance and technology. The discussion focuses on the importance of modernization, the role of technology, and how FP&A professionals can better align their tools and processes with the needs of the business.

Dr. Liran Edelist, referred to as "The Doctor" by Paul, is a distinguished professional with a PhD in Business Administration. Originally from Israel, Liran now operates out of the Greater Boston area and has extensive experience in consulting, technology, and business leadership. With a career spanning nearly three decades, including a presidency at Jedox Americas and a role as an adjunct professor at Boston University, Liran brings a wealth of knowledge on the intersection of finance, technology, and business processes.

Expect to Learn:

1. The key components that define modern FP&A and why reducing manual work is crucial.
2. How to find the right balance between people, processes, and technology in FP&A.
3. The importance of selecting the right FP&A tools and avoiding common pitfalls during implementation.
4. Insights into the role of AI in FP&A and how it can act as an additional "pair of hands" rather than a replacement.
5. The significance of having a modernization mindset and how it can lead to continuous improvement in FP&A processes.

Quotes:

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode 

• "The great FP&A is a modernized FP&A where you don't have too much manual work." - Dr. Liran
• "FP&A should be the front office of the organization, helping lead the business alongside the CEO." - Dr. Liran
• "The key to successful FP&A is balancing the right people, processes, and technology." - Dr. Liran

In this episode, Dr. Liran Edelist emphasizes the importance of modernization in FP&A, urging professionals to adopt a mindset of continuous improvement rather than relying on outdated methods. This episode underscores FP&A’s vital role as a strategic partner in guiding organizations toward a more data-driven and forward-thinking future.

Follow Dr. Liran:

Website - https://www.topit.biz/

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

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle:

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis 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

[01:35] - Introduction to the episode and guest, Dr. Liran

[02:57] - What defines great FP&A?

[04:24] - Critical balance between people, processes, and technology

[09:18] - Key considerations for selecting the right FP&A tools

[15:06] - Trends in FP&A technology

[23:32] - The Role of AI in FP&A

[26:00] - FP&A as the front office of organization

[28:46] - The Plan Buddies community

[33:23] - Implementing FP&A tools successfully

[45:27] - Conclusion and closing remarks

In this episode of Financial Modelers Corner, Paul Barnhurst dives into the intricacies of financial modeling, focusing on cash flow forecasting and continuous planning with FP&A expert Randy Brown. Randy shares his unique journey from music school to becoming a financial consultant and emphasizes the importance of practical financial strategies, especially in volatile markets.

Randy Brown is a seasoned financial consultant with a rich background in FP&A, corporate finance, and financial modeling. After initially pursuing a career in music, Randy transitioned into finance, where he has built a successful career, particularly in cash flow management and continuous planning. His approach blends technical financial skills with real-world business acumen, making him a sought-after consultant in the industry.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• The critical importance of cash flow forecasting for business stability.
• Practical steps to build a 13-week cash flow forecast.
• Why continuous planning is more effective than traditional annual budgeting.
• Common pitfalls in financial modeling, including the dangers of circular references and external workbook links.
• Randy’s insights on managing finances for small to medium-sized businesses, especially in distressed situations.

Here are a few quotes from Randy Brown:

• "The minute you create a budget, it’s meaningless. The business environment changes too fast for a static plan." - Randy Brown
• "For cash flow forecasting, it’s all about identifying your sources and uses of cash and laying them out on a calendar." - Randy Brown
• "The flexibility of working from home and being my own boss was the number one driver for becoming an independent consultant." - Randy Brown
• "Learn relational data structures; understanding how data relates will improve every analytical task you do." - Randy Brown

In this insightful episode, Randy Brown shared his wealth of knowledge on financial modeling, continuous planning, and the critical importance of cash flow forecasting. His emphasis on the importance of relationships, the simplicity of effective cash forecasting, and the pitfalls of traditional budgeting methods offers a fresh perspective for financial professionals striving to improve their modeling practices.

Follow Randy:

• Website - https://www.instagram.com/randy_brown/
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/randyjbrown/ 

Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376  

Follow Financial Modeler's Corner  

• LinkedIn Page- https://www.linkedin.com/company/financial-modeler-s-corner/?viewAsMember=true  
• Newsletter - Subscribe on LinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7079020077076905984

Sign up for the Advanced Financial Modeler Accreditation Today and receive 15% off by using the special show code ‘Podcast’.

Visit www.fminstitute.com/podcast and use the code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.  

In today’s episode:

[01:28] - Introduction to the episode and guest Randy Brown

[07:27] - Insights into Randy’s background and career journey

[13:17] - Continuous planning vs. annual budgeting

[20:36] - The benefits of fractional consulting

[23:37] - The Importance of cash flow forecasting

[28:01] - Building a 13-Week Cash Flow Forecast

[34:53] - Key considerations for cash flow management

[42:48] - Rapid fire financial modeling questions

[48:28] - Final advice and closing thoughts

In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst, aka "The FP&A Guy," dives into the intricacies of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with Renato Villanueva, CEO of Parallel, a startup  FP&A tool for early-stage founders. They discuss what makes great FP&A, the journey from risk management to FP&A, and the challenges of scaling a startup while maintaining financial discipline.

Renato Villanueva is an accomplished finance professional and the CEO of Parallel, a company providing innovative financial modeling and forecasting solutions for startups. With a finance degree from Utah Valley University, Renato's experience spans multiple high-profile companies, including Qualtrics, American Express, and Divvy. His deep understanding of FP&A and his entrepreneurial spirit drive the conversation as he shares valuable insights from his career and current ventures.

Expect to Learn:

1. The essential characteristics of effective FP&A and why understanding your company's goals is crucial.
2. How persistence and networking can open doors in your career, as demonstrated by Renato's journey into Divvy.
3. The importance of aligning financial planning with company growth strategies, especially in a startup environment.
4. Key operational metrics to focus on during the early stages of a startup.
5. Strategies for building strong relationships between finance and other business departments to drive success.

Quotes:

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode 

• “Great FP&A is about understanding what the company is trying to accomplish and the role your leader plays in that. It's knowing the North Star metric and ensuring your department has the resources to achieve it." - Renato Villanueva
• "You want to make it as easy as possible for whoever you work with. Sometimes that means meeting people where they’re at rather than forcing them into a new process." - Renato Villanueva
• "The most rewarding part is tackling a really hard problem and empowering founders to make better, bigger bets with confidence." - Renato Villanueva

Renato's journey from risk management to becoming the CEO of Parallel offers valuable lessons in persistence, adaptability, and the power of understanding the big picture. Tune in for expert insights as we continue to explore the evolving landscape of FP&A.

Follow Renato:

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

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

World-class Digital FP&A Course Bundle: 

Signup for over ten hours of video content with 4 different courses and 8 modules on FP&A topics including: Business Partnering, Data Analysis, Financial Modeling Design Principles, and Modern Excel. Use code Podcast to save 25%. What are you waiting for signup now: https://bit.ly/4decOf3

Enroll for Financial Planning & Analysis Certificate Program:

Level up your career and build skills for financial planning and analysis. 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

[01:32] - Introduction to the topic and guest Renato Villanueva

[02:35] - Renato shares his views on what constitutes great FP&A.

[03:29] - Discussion of Renato's career journey

[05:46] - Renato explains how persistence and networking led to his role at Divvy

[14:12] - A look at the key metrics Renato focused on while scaling Divvy

[24:05] - The evolution of the budgeting and forecasting process at Divvy

[26:19] - Tips on how finance professionals can build strong relationships with other departments

[33:10] - Renato shares insights into his current venture, Parallel, and the rewarding experience of building a company from the ground up.

[39:24] - Renato answers quick questions about key FP&A skills

[48:17] - Final thoughts and how to connect with Renato

This week’s show notes are written by Microsoft CoPilot. 

What does the future of accounting and finance look like? How can you leverage technology, especially generative AI, to take your career to the next level? Join Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper as they explore these questions and more with Tom Hood, a renowned leader and innovator in the accounting profession.

Tom Hood is the EVP of Business Engagement and Growth at the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. He has been a pioneer in integrating technology into finance for over 24 years, and he shares his insights and advice on how you can do the same.

In this episode, you will discover:

• How technology is reshaping the accounting and finance industry and what it means for you.
•  How to start using generative AI today to automate tasks, generate insights, and create value.
• How to overcome the fear of failure and embrace risk-taking as a way to learn and grow.
• How generative AI will become more sophisticated and powerful in the near future and what you need to prepare for it.
• How to communicate effectively with your stakeholders and clients in the age of AI.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the most influential voices in the accounting profession. Listen to this episode and find out how you can harness the power of technology and generative AI to transform your career and the future of finance.

Follow Tom:

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

Company: https://blionline.org/

Blog: http://blionline.org/blog

AICPA & CIMA: http://www.cgma.org/

Join hosts Glenn and Paul as they unravel the complexities of AI in finance:

Follow Glenn:

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

Follow Paul:

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

Follow QFlow.AI:

Website - https://qflow.ai/future-finance

Future Finance is sponsored by QFlow.ai, the strategic finance platform solving the toughest part of planning and analysis: B2B revenue. Align sales, marketing, and finance, speed up decision-making, and lock in accountability with QFlow.ai.

Stay tuned for a deeper understanding of how AI is shaping the future of finance and what it means for businesses and individuals alike.

In Today’s Episode:

[01:38] - Latest AI developments and their impact on the finance industry

[11:40] - Introduction to the episode and guest Tom Hood

[12:58] - The intersection of technology and accounting

[17:03] - Practical benefits and risks of generative AI in finance

[21:03] - The future of generative AI in finance

[30:28] - Advice for aspiring accountants

[32:50] - Fun segment: get to know Tom Hood

[36:55] - Conclusion and final thoughts