#4 Hugh O'Neill - From Practice to Product: Hugh’s Journey into Technology-Driven Finance

Most finance leaders focus on the technical side of their role, until they realise the real game-changer is mastering the art of soft skills. Hugh O'Neill shares how curiosity, active listening, and emotional intelligence transformed his journey from Dublin accountant to innovative tech advisor, proving that leadership in finance is less about numbers and more about understanding people.In this episode, Hugh reveals why the true power lies in asking questions rather than assuming you already know the answers. You'll discover how navigating the grey areas of subjective judgment, embracing change with humility, and cultivating psychological safety are essential for leading high-performing teams. We break down stories from his varied career, moving from audit to industry, managing cross-functional teams, and now advising CFOs on technology—highlighting the critical moments where soft skills made all the difference. We’ll explore:The importance of curiosity and asking the right questions in leadershipHow early influences and extracurricular activities shape leadership valuesThe role of emotional intelligence in fostering trust and aligning teamsPractical insights on managing change and developing resilienceThe impact of soft skills on career advancement and team successYou'll also learn why the discipline learned in early education with public speaking, extracurricular activities, and resilience, laid the foundation for Hugh's leadership approach. Whether you're a young finance pro or a seasoned leader, this episode provides practical insights on how to foster trust, align teams during change, and develop the emotional intelligence needed for scaling success.Perfect for finance leaders aiming to elevate their impact, or professionals seeking to thrive in the fast-evolving landscape, Hugh’s stories will inspire you to harness the power of curiosity and empathy. Tune in to understand why being a great leader is about much more than technical mastery, it's about connecting deeply, listening intently, and leading with purpose.Hugh O’Neill is a finance expert at FloQast, known for transforming the way finance teams modernise and manage change. With a rich background from Dublin to London, and extensive experience across industries, Hugh’s insights cut through the noise to reveal the human side of finance leadership.