The FP&A Guy Network

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.

In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful interaction with Tyler Cypher, for a discussion on how generative AI is reshaping FP&A, the importance of business partnering, and optimizing cloud spend.

Tyler, the founder and CEO of OpsCipher, shares his journey from Disney finance intern to leading FP&A at top cybersecurity firms. He is an expert in leveraging generative AI for strategic decision-making. Also a passionate advocate for effective business partnering and optimizing cloud spending.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:

• Generative AI simplifies data processing, enabling FP&A teams to focus more on strategic analysis and decision-making, ultimately enhancing their value to the organization.
• Success in FP&A hinges on understanding business challenges, effective communication, and building trust with stakeholders. Being curious and proactive is key to growth.
• Effective cloud spend management requires visibility, collaboration across teams, and financial stewardship from the early stages of product development to avoid unnecessary costs.
• Financial operations play a critical role in managing cloud costs. Establishing a dedicated FinOps team or center of excellence can provide significant benefits.
• How skills from varied roles like investment banking and consulting can enhance FP&A effectiveness. Exposure to various business aspects through FP&A provides a strong foundation for leadership roles.

• The discussion highlights the necessity of mastering copywriting to communicate effectively and set clear expectations with stakeholders. For FP&A professionals this skill helps in selling ideas and managing business relationships successfully.

The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Plan Buddies. Plan Buddies, where professionals meet excellence. Ready to elevate your career? Visit plan-buddies.com and become a member today. Here's a special treat. Use the promo code the FP&A Guy, that is TheFPandAGuy for an exclusive 25% discount on your first-year membership.

Quotes:

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode

"The people who are the most successful have a genuine curiosity about the business. It's very hard to go into those teams and try to be that analytical value-add extension if you can't understand their challenges."

“If you think about software business, generally, the two biggest expenses are people and then the cost of running the software.”

“FinOps as an organizational structure. So from the first part, I think, it's inherent in the word financial operations. It's a financial stewardship-driven culture in the first place.”

Follow Tyler:

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

Website - http://opscipher.com

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com

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

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In today's episode:

(1:20) - Introduction

(01:50) - Guest Introduction

(02:26) - Defining Great FP&A

(05:01) - Impact of Generative AI on FP&A

(06:59) - Future of FP&A with AI

(13:25) - Becoming A Strategic Business Partner

(17:40) - Cash Flow for Coders Newsletter

(21:30) - Optimizing Cloud Spend

(30:12) - Advice for Managing Cloud Spend

(44:12) - Rapid-Fire Session

(46:40) - Essential Skills for FP&A Professionals

(47:40) - Guest’s Personal Insights.

(50:42) - Advice for FP&A Business Partners

TLDR: These show notes were optimized using Claude ChatGPT 4.0 and are designed to make you listen to the full episode. We also asked H4.0 to write a brief limerick summarizing the show notes.

There once was a podcast on AI,

Transforming accounting, oh my!

With Mitchell's insight,

Efficiency in sight,

A must-listen for those on the fly.

Show Notes:

Welcome to Future Finance, with your hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper, where we focus on the technological advancements and emerging trends fueling the FP&A professionals. We bring you vital updates and insights into the technologies that are going to shape not just finance and accounting, but every sector of the world in the years ahead.

In today’s episode, Paul and Glenn engage in a conversation with Mitchell Troyanovsky, Co-Founder of Basis, to discuss the transformative impact of AI on the accounting profession. The discussion highlights the differences between rule-based systems and generative AI.

Highlights of the Episode:

• Generative AI vs. Rule-Based Systems: Generative AI offers contextual understanding and reasoning, unlike rule-based systems that rely on rigid if-then statements, making it more adaptable to complex accounting tasks.

• AI as a Digital Assistant: AI can create first drafts of accounting tasks, enabling accountants to review and refine the work, thus saving time and increasing productivity. "You'll start having accountants much more of their job, rather than being this kind of monotonous manual work, start to be like, okay, this work has been done for me as a first draft, let me now review it."

• Enhancing Strategic Value: AI acts as a digital assistant, supplementing the workforce rather than replacing it, and allowing accountants to provide more strategic value to their clients. "It is a tool for accountants. Explicitly, at the end of the day, the job that they can do the best is to advise their clients, help their clients, help them make better decisions, and be that partner, with them, rather than needing to be stuck in all the manual work needed to get to that actual real value add at the end of the day."

• Shifting Roles and Skills: The introduction of AI in accounting will shift the focus from data entry and basic tasks to more analytical and advisory roles, making the profession more appealing to new graduates.

• Addressing Trust Issues: While AI will make mistakes, just like human employees, it is essential to implement systems to catch errors and continuously improve AI performance through feedback and iteration.

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.

Learn more at qflow.ai/future-finance

Follow Mitchell:

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

Website: https://www.getbasis.ai/

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

In today's episode:

[01:32] Introduction

[06:35] Real-world applications of ChatGPT 4.0 in financial analysis

[08:50] Evolution of AI models and their impact on specialized financial tools

[11:23] Guest’s background

[13:43] Overview of Basis and the need for AI in accounting

[17:10] Differences between rule-based systems and generative AI

[20:22] How AI handles accounting workflows

[26:42] Addressing fears and trust issues with AI in accounting

[33:11] Fun rapid-fire Session

[37:40] Contact information for more learning opportunities

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. 

The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is the Third Generation FP&A Tools Showcase. Join the Showcase and see the latest technology in FP&A planning software. Register for free today: https://www.accelevents.com/e/fpatoolsshowcase

In today’s episode, Paul engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the awesome Jim Cook and Winnie Aoieong, for a fascinating discussion on the importance of decision-making systems, the value of trust in business partnerships, and the role of generative AI in modern FP&A.

Jim Cook, former CFO of Mozilla with a rich history at Netflix and Intuit, shares his valuable insights on effective decision-making systems and the power of community building.

Winnie Aoieong, VP of Business Finance at PowerSchool, discusses her experience in scaling financial operations and the critical balance of technical skills and business communication.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :

Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:

• Great FP&A goes beyond data analysis to create effective decision-making systems, allowing businesses to make strategic decisions based on comprehensive insights.

• Building strong, trust-based relationships with business partners is essential for effective collaboration and achieving organizational goals.

• Discussion on harnessing the power of community and crowdsourcing can significantly enhance problem-solving and innovation within an organization.

• How to balance technical skills with effective communication is crucial for translating complex financial data into actionable business strategies.

• Adaptability to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and learning from failures. Progress over perfection drives long-term success.

• Utilization of generative AI for tasks like meeting summaries and action item tracking can enhance efficiency and focus on high-value activities.

• Leadership development within the team and creating a safe environment for challenging assumptions encourages innovation and growth.

Quotes:

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about the importance of decision-making systems, building trust in business partnerships, and the role of generative AI in enhancing FP&A efficiency:

• "Great FP&A is the balance of technical skills and translating that into actionable plans to communicate with the business."

• "Ultimately what they're trying to do is partner with their department business unit and create excellent decision-making systems because that's what our data is eventually doing."

• "A relationship builds on trust. So trust comes from your capacity, your capabilities, but also your way of wanting to build that alliance with whoever you work with."

• "Mozilla taught me about how powerful communities are. Communities always win."

• "Perfection is a prison. It's about always progressing and improving because there is always room to get better."

Follow Jim:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cookflix

• Website- https://www.benchboard.com

Follow Winnie:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/winnie-aoieong-6852212

• Website- https://www.powerschool.com

 Follow Paul: 

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com 

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

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In today's episode:

[00:05] Introduction

[01:20] Guest’s background

[01:28] What Does Great FP&A Look Like?

[02:13] Evolution of FP&A

[02:45] Future of FP&A

[10:30] Scaling a Company

[12:00] Leadership Changes

[16:00] Role of Finance in Business

[21:32] Systems and Chart of Accounts

[29:40] Safe Space for Innovation

[40:52] FP&A Tools and Generative AI

[42:00] Rapid Fire Questions

[49:20] Get to Know Our Guests Personally

Welcome to the Financial Modeler's Corner (FMC), where we discuss the Art and Science of Financial Modeling with your host Paul Barnhurst.

Financial Modeler's Corner is sponsored by the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the most respected accreditation in Financial Modeling globally.

In today’s episode, Paul engages in a conversation with Stephen Aldridge, to discuss developing and implementing Financial Modeling standards and best practices, including insights from his work on the Financial Modelling Code. This conversation is packed with practical advice and fascinating anecdotes.

Stephen, the founder of Numeritas, has over 20 years of experience in Financial Modeling. Stephen has worked with and for top firms like KPMG and Deloitte. With a background in engineering, sales, and corporate management, he offers a unique perspective on Financial Modeling standards and best practices.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• Standards in Financial Modeling ensure consistency and reliability in financial models. Having an agreed-upon approach within a firm allows for seamless transitions when different individuals work on the same model, promoting accuracy and ease of understanding.

• Financial modeling involves various acceptable methodologies, making consensus on best practices challenging. Flexible guidelines, like the Financial Modeling Code, help streamline processes and ensure consistency across different approaches.

• Prototyping in Financial Modeling bridges the gap between modelers and users by creating early mock-ups of input areas. This approach ensures the model meets user expectations and captures necessary inputs accurately, saving time and resources in the long run.

• Human factors, such as biases and assumptions, significantly impact financial modeling. Effective communication and understanding stakeholder interactions are crucial for creating accurate and practical models.

• In implementing Modeling Standards, Firms should adapt modeling standards to their specific needs with a focus on basic principles like avoiding hard coding and maintaining consistency to enhance model quality and reliability.

Quotes:  

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode on financial analysis and modeling:

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 code “Podcast” to save 15% when you register.

Go to https://earmarkcpe.com, download the app, take the quiz and you can receive CPE credit. 

View and download the Financial Modeling Code at financial-modelling-code.ashx (icaew.com)

Follow Stephen:

• LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenaldridge/
• Website - https://numeritas.co.uk/

Follow Paul:

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@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   



In today’s episode:  

(00:50) Introduction

(01:40) Guest Introduction

(01:45) Horrifying Financial Models

(04:10) Approach to Financial Modeling

(05:25) Guest's Background and Career Journey

(08:20) Developing Modeling Standards

(15:09) Divergent Views and Common Agreements

(18:15) Best Practices and Lessons Learned

(24:30) Importance of Prototyping

(28:00) Most Enjoyable Modeling Project

(30:30) Joking on Big Numbers

(33:20) Rapid-Fire Question Round

(44:20) Guest's Advice for Aspiring Financial Modelers

(44:47) Guest's Contact Information

In today’s episode, Paul engages in an insightful interaction with Julian Castelli, for a discussion about the transformative role of FP&A and evolution from basic finance to a strategic role influencing business decisions and investor relations, highlighting his leadership experiences and the importance of core values.

Julian is currently serving as a board director and board chair. With experience as a board director and operating partner many times over, Julian assists SaaS and Marketplace technology companies in areas like strategy, team development, growth execution, fundraising, executive coaching, and board governance. He began his career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs and later worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Company. 

Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :

Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:

• The competitive dynamics and funding needs of marketplace and SaaS (Software as a Service) businesses. SaaS businesses can be more capital efficient and have multiple successful players compared to winner-take-most marketplaces.

• The transformative power of adhering to and actively promoting company values, even in crisis, which can galvanize a team and reinforce commitment to the organization's mission and customer service.

• Growth-stage companies need sophisticated FP&A to meet investor expectations and aid decision-making. FP&A should influence a company's financial and strategic decisions, not just report on them.

• Promoting company values strengthens internal culture and aligns team actions with the organization's mission. Companies must evolve from managing daily finances to integrating broad strategic financial planning.

• How skills from varied roles like investment banking and consulting can enhance FP&A effectiveness. Exposure to various business aspects through FP&A provides a strong foundation for leadership roles.

• The discussion highlights the necessity of presenting financials in a way that aligns with investor expectations, which is often different from traditional accounting reports. 

The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is the Plan Buddies. Join Plan Buddies. Plan Buddies, where professionals meet excellence. This isn't just any community. It is a community run by and for planning professionals. At Plan Buddies we’re all about fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and providing mentorship among FP&A experts. Ready to elevate your career? Visit plan-buddies.com and become a member today. Here's a special treat. Use the promo code the FP&A Guy, that is TheFPandAGuy for an exclusive 25% discount on your first-year membership.

Quotes:

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A's transition from basic finance to a strategic role, the critical importance of financial planning and analysis, and the influence of leadership and core values in navigating business challenges.

• "So without FP&A, you can't see what's ahead of you."

• "But if you present a P&L like that [Natural Account Line] to an investor, you might end the meeting right there."

• "Unfortunately, I'm kind of shocked that the ERPs out there make it so difficult to actually produce financial reporting the way the investors want."

• "FP&A is not just a luxury; it's essential as you scale and begin dealing with institutional investors."

Follow Julian:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliancastelli1

Follow Paul:

Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com 

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

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In today's episode:

[01:16] Introduction

[03:20] Guest’s background

[05:50] How did previous experiences prepare Julian for FP&A expertise

[08:35] Turning critical information into actionable reporting

[11:05] How the value of FP&A goes beyond controller or bookkeeping

[28:20] Guest’s view about the evolution of FP&A 

[30:22] Interesting facts and differences between SaaS and Marketplace

[41:49] Guest’s career journey and previous experiences

[48:27] Upcoming event promotion

[49:56] Rapid-fire session

[52:24] Guest’s personal insights.

[55:27] Advice for being a better business partner 

[57:27] Conclusion

TLDR: These show notes were optimized using Claude AI Haiku and are designed to make you listen to the full episode. We even asked Haiku to provide a Haiku summarizing the show notes for your reading pleasure.

Haiku:

Finance takes new shape,

AI-driven transformation,

Shaping the future. 

Prepare to be captivated as hosts Paul Barnhurst and Glenn Hopper welcome Sasha Orloff, CEO of Puzzle, to uncover the technological advancements reshaping the world of finance and accounting. In this eye-opening episode, you'll discover:

• How generative AI is seamlessly integrating into everyday software, automating tasks and delivering data-driven insights.
• The rise of "AI agents" in 2024 - advanced systems designed to autonomously process complex problems and provide tailored solutions.
• Sasha's visionary project, Puzzle, modernizing accounting software with real-time, flexible financial data processing.
• The transformative potential of blockchain technology to enhance transparency and traceability of financial transactions.
• The future of finance reimagined through AI and predictive analytics, empowering more precise forecasting and strategic decision-making.

Sasha shares his insightful perspective:

"I'm building Puzzle, which is modern accounting software for growing companies."

"We may not yet be at a point where AI is going to take our jobs, but the future will be divided into two camps: people who use AI and those who don't. One of these groups is going to be left behind."

Don't miss this captivating conversation that explores the intersection of finance, technology, and AI. Gain invaluable insights to stay ahead of the curve and thrive in the rapidly evolving world of corporate finance.

Follow the Conversation:

• Glenn Hopper (LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbhopperiii)
• Paul Barnhurst (LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy)
• Sasha Orloff (LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saor/)
• Puzzle (LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/puzzlefin, Website: https://puzzle.io)

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. 

Learn more at Qflow.ai/future-finance

In today's episode:

[01:53] Introduction

[03:34] The latest phase of AI revolution

[04:51] Pros and cons of chatbots and the rise and evolution of AI agents

[09:17] Recent updates about AI

[13:52] Guest’s background

[15:30] Insights from guest’s career

[17:51] Introduction of Puzzle and future of general ledger in accounting

[25:12] How blockchain can be an effective tool for accounting

[30:24] How AI and predictive analytics can change finance in upcoming years

[34:34] Democratization of data science and various uses of machine learning

[39:05] Lighting Round Questions!

New show coming soon...

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst.

The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is the Third Generation FP&A Tools Showcase. Join the Showcase and see the latest technology in FP&A planning software. Register for free today at https://www.accelevents.com/e/fpatoolsshowcase

In today’s episode, Paul Barnhurst engages Trevor Anthony, for a fascinating discussion on the evolution of financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and how artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping its future.

Trevor, a seasoned Chief of Staff at FranConnect, excels in transforming FP&A roles into powerful business partnerships that drive organizational success. With a rich background in private equity-backed software companies, Trevor is known for his expertise in creating simple and impactful financial models, he simplifies complex financial data into actionable intelligence.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :

Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:

• How AI could significantly reduce costs and streamline operational processes, positioning FP&A to be more efficient and strategically integral to businesses.

• The importance of mastering the skill of creating clean and straightforward financial models for FP&A professionals. By prioritizing simplicity and clarity, these models become crucial tools for delivering precise financial data for business insights.

• The value of experience, mentorship, and strategic thinking in the evolution of FP&A professionals. It stresses how these elements help transition from traditional analytical roles to more influential positions.

• How private equity (PE) impacts FP&A operations, setting high expectations for teams to act as the definitive source of truth within companies.

• The discussion highlights how PE firms demand thorough, detailed financial reporting and forecasts, reflecting their reliance on FP&A teams to provide thorough insights and accurate analysis to guide investment decisions and business strategies.

• The discussion also highlights the anticipation of a future where AI not only supports but enhances the FP&A functions across various industries.

Quotes:

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about the strategic thinking around technology investment, the value of networking, the importance of responsiveness in professional settings, and the encouragement for community engagement:

"The best FP&A groups, I've seen, have solidified themselves as a mission-critical function, not just to check the box type of group."

"First and foremost, keep it simple. I think in the sales process, they demo flashy things... focus on what the tool does."

"The beginning of what I'd call a business partnering relationship was when I'd sit down with the business owner and have to intimately understand their business and their financials."

“Dealing with ambiguity, especially when you're working with senior leaders, they constantly vaguely describe things. You, as a professional, need to understand what that means.”

“If you're like a traditional corporate FP&A person or you're just a data analyst, find those opportunities."

Follow Trevor:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevoranthony
• Website - https://www.franconnect.com

Follow Paul: 

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

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions. For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

Welcome to the Financial Modeler's Corner (FMC), where we discuss the art and science of financial modeling with your host Paul Barnhurst.

Financial Modeler's Corner is sponsored by the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the most respected accreditation in Financial Modeling globally.

In today’s episode, Paul engages in an interaction with Carolina Lago and discusses the essential tips for transforming data into actionable insights and the strategic approach to avoiding common modeling pitfalls. This discussion offers valuable wisdom that will enhance your analytical skills and financial acumen.

Carolina, a seasoned FP&A professional with over 15 years of international experience, shares profound insights from her extensive career, including her role in a significant IPO and leading software implementation across global departments.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include:

• An early career encounter with a poorly designed financial model, filled with hard-coded numbers, underscores the necessity for creating flexible and dynamic financial models that can adapt to changing business needs.

• The discussion highlights the critical need to avoid hardcoded data and external links in financial models, which can lead to rigidity and errors.

• Insights from the financial modeling newsletter and courses show a wide range of professionals benefiting, from newcomers to seasoned directors. This variety demonstrates the widespread need for improved modeling skills.

• The discussion focuses on the importance of transforming data into actionable insights. It's stressed that without the ability to analyze and interpret data effectively, its value is minimal.

• The conversation sheds light on techniques for deriving actionable insights from complex data, crucial for any financial modeler. It also discusses the value of formal certifications like the Advanced Financial Modeler Certification as tools for professional development and skill validation.

Quotes:  

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode on financial analysis and modeling:

• “I inherited one, and I had to try to change it. I spent probably a couple of weeks trying to make it better, and I couldn't. It was just too full of hardcoded numbers and I had to find everything the way around and no design at all.”

• “The first thing I learned about financial modeling was not to use hard codes and don't link outside of the spreadsheet.”

• “Data is only useful if it can be transformed into actionable insights.”

• “The TACTIC is (Targets, Assets, Calculations, Tools, Insights, and Correlations.) You start with the target which is the question that you need to answer with that financial model.” 

• “That's why I like financial modeling so much because it can transform data into something. So you can make decisions on top of that data.”

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

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

Go to https://earmarkcpe.com, download the app, take the quiz and you can receive CPE credit. 

Follow Carolina:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-carolinalago
• Website - https://www.tacticfinancial.com

Follow Paul:

• Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   
• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  
• TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@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   

In today’s episode:  

(00:04) Introduction

(00:50) Guest Introduction

(01:00) Horrifying Financial Models

(02:00) Insights from Guest’s Early Career Challenges

(03:10) Guest’s Career Journey and Global Experience

(05:00) Turning Data into Actionable Insights

(07:30) Introduction of the Tactic Framework

(09:50) Audience Engagement and Learning Opportunities

(20:00) Certification and Continuing Education

(22:40) Rapid-Fire Round

(24:50) Advice for Aspiring Financial Modelers

(26:00) Contact information to learn more about various modeling techniques and tools.

Welcome to FP&A Tomorrow, where we discuss financial planning and analysis, examining its current state and future prospects, with your host Paul Barnhurst. 

The title sponsor for this week’s episode of FP&A Tomorrow is Wharton Online, one of the world's leading business schools. The gateway to mastering financial planning and analysis through a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum crafted by industry experts is only a click away- https://wallstreetprep.wharton.upenn.edu

In today’s episode, Paul Barnhurst engages Christian Wattig on the journey into the evolving world of financial planning and analysis.

Christian Wattig, a seasoned FP&A professional and educator. As the program director for the Wharton Online and Wall Street Prep FP&A Certificate, Christian brings a wealth of experience and innovative strategies to the table. He shares how AI and technology are transforming the field.

Key takeaways from this week's episode include: :

Here is a concise summary of the key points from the discussion:

• How excellent FP&A practice hinges on making solid business recommendations from detailed analysis and storytelling, emphasizing the importance of implementing and monitoring these recommendations for impactful outcomes.

• The discussion is on how AI and new planning tools are revolutionizing FP&A by streamlining data collection and reporting, thus allowing analysts to concentrate more on strategic analysis and business partnerships.

• Insights into a career that transitioned from major corporations to spearheading an FP&A education venture, sharing valuable lessons from varied professional experiences.

• Introduction to a new certificate program that merges technical FP&A skills with interpersonal development, designed to equip professionals with comprehensive financial planning and analysis expertise.

• The discussion highlights the importance of digging beyond the surface of financial data to find actionable insights and the art of crafting these insights into stories that drive strategic business decisions.

• The reflection on the personal gratification from teaching and mentoring in FP&A, and anticipation of the future developments in the field as technology and analytical methods advance.

Quotes:

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode about FP&A skills and making concrete, impactful business recommendations:

"FP&A is at its best when you make a concrete recommendation that helps the business move forward."

"With AI and not just with AI, but also with FP&A and planning tools and software, it will be possible that you don't have to pull data from lots of different sources."

"When you're just taking people and walking them step by step through how I build a financial model from scratch, it's a different way of teaching."

“Give them those metrics, those insights, or you can get them something that gets them at least halfway there. By doing that, you can demonstrate that you want to do more than just cutting budgets and updating forecasts.”

Follow Christian:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-wattig/
• Website - https://wallstreetprep.wharton.upenn.edu/

 Follow Paul: 

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

For CPE credit please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, and answer a few questions.  For AFP FPAC certification answer the questions and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.