#179 Transforming the Finance Function with Anthony Perrozzi, Finance Transformation Advisor at FT20M

Anthony Perrozi is an independent finance transformation advisor, author and coach. Anthony shares his vast experience and practical insights on how finance teams can evolve from mere reporters of results to crucial drivers of business value. He stresses the importance of mindset in transforming finance teams and lays out how to establish a project approach that optimizes existing processes and pinpoints areas needing improvement. Anthony talks about his journey to becoming a full-time finance transformation expert. Anthony started in accounting but realized there was more to learn outside the textbooks. This led him to take on systems implementation roles and eventually lead transformation projects. Anthony shared some common pitfalls like not committing enough resources to transformations. Organizations also struggle with requests for proposals that don’t consider the level of effort needed. We discussed the need for client-side advisors to provide strategy and ensure different departments work together smoothly. Anthony’s approach involves listening sessions with subject matter experts to understand their pain points and map out processes. Fixing these is key before adding new technology like automation. Process improvement is so important for efficiency gains. When it comes to automation and AI, Anthony stressed the importance of aligned processes and resources first. We can’t just layer technology on top of broken processes. Robotics process automation is commonly used in early automation efforts. Driving the need for change often comes down to issues like errors and wasted time on non-value activities. A big future challenge will be increasing understanding of what transformation really means and how to do it effectively. Our finance transformation bootcamp aims to help with that. https://youtu.be/wijdStudh5g Links Anthony Perrozzi on LinkedIn Kevin Appleby on LinkedIn GrowCFO Finance Transformation Boot Camp GrowCFO Global Finance Summit Timestamps Introducing finance transformation with expert Anthony Perrozzi. (0:11) Finance transformation and intercompany accounting. (2:27) Finance transformation challenges and solutions. (5:45) Improving business processes through client-side advisors. (11:58) Process improvement for business efficiency. (18:08) Transforming businesses through automation and AI. (24:10) Transforming finance teams and education. (31:21) Find out more about GrowCFO If you enjoyed this podcast, you can subscribe to the GrowCFO Show with your favourite podcast app. The GrowCFO show is listed in the Apple podcast directory, Google Podcasts, Spotify and many others. Why not subscribe there today? That way, you never miss an episode. GrowCFO is a great place to extend your professional network. Join GrowCFO as a free member today and participate in our regular networking events and webinars.  Premium members can also access our extensive training centre and CFO Digital Toolkit. You can enrol in our flagship Future CFO or Finance Leader programmes here.  You can find out more and join today at growcfo.net