Amid the excitement around getting back to a semblance of business as usual, you’re probably asking yourself a lot of questions—as in, what is the new normal and where do I go from here? This podcast is the first episode in a new series for CFOs, controllers—really, anyone in finance—asking big questions, like: how do we emerge from a crisis stronger than before? Each week, we’ll focus on a different area that may need your focus in this period of recovery. This week, host Heather Horn sits down with Tim Ryan, PwC’s US chairman and senior partner, to introduce the series and find out what the view looks like from his chair. 

Topics include:

• 0:59 - Current events. Tim begins by sharing his perspective on the current race relations crisis and how COVID-19 impacted PwC.
• 7:41 - Crisis management. These days, everyone has a role in crisis management. Tim examines how to prepare for challenging times by boiling it down to two important actions.
• 13:58 - Strategy. How can you make decisions quickly and innovate when responding to crisis? Tim explains and shares real world examples. 
• 18:07 - Digital transformation. There are three reasons why digital transformation is important. Tim shares his views on investing in technology during times of crisis.
• 23:29 - Culture. Tim talks about the value  of a culture that allows employees to fail fast and move on. He also tackles how to maintain a positive culture in a remote environment.   
• 27:23 - Our strength is our people. Employees are the ones who make things happen. Tim talks about the importance of supporting your people, and what returning to the office may look like.
• 35:05 - Wrap-up. Tim breaks down the crisis and summarizes his most important takeaways. 

Tim Ryan is US Chairman and Senior Partner. Previously, he served as Vice Chairman and the Markets, Strategy and Stakeholders Leader at PwC, having responsibility for the firm’s strategy function and stakeholder relationships, including investor relations, regulatory affairs, public policy, corporate responsibility, and human capital.

Heather Horn is PwC’s National office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 25 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to [email protected].