From CPA to CFO?

The importance of having a CPA may waning if you're following a path to the CFO's office. James Rubin recently spoke with Scott W. Simmons of financial recruiter Crist Associates:

What types of positions should a candidate have before a comptroller or divisional CFO role?

FP&A roles, director of financial planning and analysis roles, are good. Not too long in the tooth in staff roles - somehow moving out into the operating roles. You should look for three-, four-year stints in each of your movements. The market likes to see progression. An international assignment, CFO of a region, is key.

Is a CPA essential?

Case by case. Some companies require a CPA. It really came back into fashion over the last few years when Sarbanes-Oxley hit the street. But I will tell you over the last 12 months, I've felt it softening.

How important are softer skills?

In a research study we put out every year, we have seen the COO position vanishing. What we have seen is the rising prominence of the CFO from just a straight finance focus to a strategic part of the puzzle. And because of that clients tell us, "Don’t get me a bean counter. Get me somebody who I can sit in a room with and talk with from a strategic perspective about where our company's going, what decisions need to be made near- and long-term."

James, as usual, had a great conversation with Mr. Simmons, which includes a lot of food for thought if becoming a CFO appeals to you. It's all on jobsinthemoney.com.

Plotting Your Path to the CFO's Office [JITM]