Why FDs need a sense of humour

Finance | 1 Jul 2006

The role of the finance director is rapidly evolving into that of a deputy chief executive, according to Pesh Framjee, head of the not for profit unit at Deloitte.

Speaking at the CFDG annual conference, Framjee urged FDs to become more involved in the strategic side of running an organisation, in particular, taking control of risk management. "Finance is moving outside the box," he said, "we're in box one, managing the present, but FDs need to go forward and create the future. They have to stop hiding in the box. They are forgetting they are part of a team." Finance departments also need to develop knowledge around the softer skills and leadership, said Framjee.

To demonstrate the shift in the FD's role from ten years ago, Framjee used a recent FD job description that calls for "Business and financial strategy - ensure we have a forward-looking financial strategy that underpins our ambitious plans to grow our programme. Encourage and lead creative approaches to diversify and grow". He also highlighted the section in the description that calls for an FD with a sense of humour, another skill that may not have been necessary back then.

Directory: Charity Finance Directors' Group (CFDG) | Deloitte

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