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Blair Cook CPA, CA MBA Jen Nicholson CPA, CA

Are you a financial professional working in industry looking to get more out of your career?

Do you have what it takes to sit at the boardroom table at your company and contribute?

Read more

Are you a financial professional working in industry looking to get more out of your career?

Do you have what it takes to sit at the boardroom table at your company and contribute?

Do you want to take what you know about the numbers side of the business and make a greater contribution at the highest levels?

If this is the way you are thinking today and the direction you'd like to go, then this is the leadership program for you.

Hi there, I’m Blair Cook and I’m a seven time CFO and three time corporate director. I’ve spent the past two decades around the boardroom table facilitating strategy sessions, raising financing, negotiating mergers and acquisitions, and reporting to a board of directors or serving on the board of directors.

In this program, we have curated ideas to help financial professionals move from the cubicle to the corner office as soon as possible. Its table stakes that you know the numbers and can prepare the reports. In this program, you’ll learn to move beyond the accounting to think strategically, act as a catalyst leader, and influence the decisions of any organization for the better.

What are you waiting for? Enroll with us now to get started.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Analyze financial statements to gain deeper insight into the financial results, profitability, financial strength, and cash return generation potential.
  • In this course, you will be able to facilitatte development of an enterprise risk management system using the principles of the coso erm framework.
  • Learn about financing strategy including the different varieties of financing, how each work, and when to seek each source of financing.
  • In this course, you will learn about fraud risk including how it happens, why it happens, and how to best prevent it from happening in your organization.
  • Learn how to make a valuable contribution as the business developes, analyzes, implements, and evaluates corporate strategy.
  • Learn about change management

Syllabus

This is an incredibly important series of lessons on uncovering the story hidden in a set of financial statements.
Why Financial Statements Exist
Read more
Where to Look For Financial Information
How to Analyze the Income Statement
How to Analyze Operational Efficiency and Effectiveness
How to Analyze a Balance Sheet
How to Analyze Cash Flow
How to Analyze a Company Quickly Using the Internet
Contains a description of all the financial ratios and measures including how to calculate and interpret.
In this series of lessons, we are going to learn how to set the financing strategy for our organization.
Objectives of Capital
Financing Lifecycle
Managing Supplier Credit
Variations of Debt Financing
Negotiate Your Credit Facility
Mezzanine Financing- What is it- Debt or Equity?
Venture Capital Financing
Private Equity Financing
Going Public to Raise Financing
Case Study: Financing a Leveraged Buyout
WACC and Capital Structure: What You Need to Know
Finance Strategies Course Script
Financing Glossary
In this series of lessons, we are going to talk about how you manage transition during your next major strategic initiative.
Why You Need to Know About Change Management Principles
Challenges of Change
The link for the supplemental video referred to in this lesson is as follows:

http://youtu.be/hcz1aZ60k7w
Developing an Approach for your Next Change Initiative
Adapting the Organization to Handle Continuous Change
Change Management Course Script
We should all be striving for continuous improvement in running our finance function and more broadly speaking across the organization.  In this lesson, I look at a few ideas for how you should think about your next business process improvement.
Don't let you employees steal from your organization. 5% of your revenues are walking out the door!
Where is the Organization Vulnerable
Understand the Psychological Profile of a Fraudster
Best Practices to Safeguard the Organizations Assets

Let's check in on the cases under investigation from around the world to get better understanding of how big our fraud problem really is.

You know the techniques already by now, but do you want to know which ones work and which ones don't? Let me tell you what fraud controls you should be emphasizing and which are less important.

This lesson puts a face to fraud. Is it that weird guy at the water cooler all the time? Or is it Bob, the flamboyant sales guy? In this lesson, I’ll give you the profile of today’s fraudster.

So you've been victimized by one of your trusted employees. Ugh. Sorry about that. But what should you do next? Call the police? Let's see what others are doing that find themselves in the same unfortunate situation.

Let's put a bow on this whole discussion by asking the experts what are the key things you should be thinking about as you develop an anti-fraud program.

The modern CFO knows a thing or two about strategic management. Are ready to lead the strategic discussion at your company?
Strategic Management Framework
Setting MIssion, Vision, and Values
Strategy Documentation Worksheet
Assess the Current Situation with External Analysis
Assess the Current Situation with Internal Analysis
Corporate Strategy Development
Business Strategy Development
Functional Strategy Development
Analyzing Strategic Alternatives
Approaches to Implementing Strategy
Evaluating and Controlling Strategy Execution
Strategy Facilitation Development Tool Kit
Strategic Management Course Script
Strategic Management Glossary
Risk management is a mindset that complements strategic management. Make sure the objectives of your organization get met.
Objectives of the COSO ERM Framework
Risk Management Starts With a Strong Internal Environment
Risk Management Objectives Align with Business Objectives
Identifying Risk Events
Performing a Risk Assessment
Developing a Risk Response
Implementing Risk Control Activities
Developing and Communicating Risk Information
Monitoring Enterprise Risk
In these lessons we are going to learn how the CFO can increase their credibility and influence.

Let's get an overview of what we will cover in this module.

Let's talk about why developing credibility is so important to facilitating the growth agenda.

In this lesson, we talk about how you determine your own level of credibility.

In this lesson, we talk about ways to establish people credibility.

In this lesson, we talk about ways to establish technology and process credibility.

Ideas for Speeding Up the Financial Close
Bottlenecks in the close process
Approaches for achieving the fast close
Making the fast close happen
Conclusions for achieving the fast close
Your First 100 Days as CFO

Just been appointed CFO or are you looking for that title in your career?  Here is a preview of what you need to know to hit the ground running.

Learn what competencies (skills and knowledge) the modern CFO embodies.

It's important to know where you are starting from and where you are going.  A maturity model helps you make this assessment.

To be successful in the role of CFO, you need to build a team around you.  Here are a few team building ideas to get you started.

Documenting and communicating the plan for how the finance function aligns with the rest of the organization is an important outcome during your first 100 days.

Structuring the finance function to achieve and cover the mandate of finance takes some careful staff planning and recruitment.

In all likelihood, you will want to change a few things after your first 100 days.  Here is a reminder of a few of the important change management principles to keep in mind.

Learn about how changes in the modern world are changing the finance function of tomorrow.
Introduction
Living Outside Our Comfort Zone
Stages of Transformative Thinking
Playing a Larger Role
Redefining the Role of the Office
A Focus on Employee Well-being
Rethinking the Role of the Meeting
Talent Management For the Future
Disaster Recovery and Value Creation
Relationship (Re)Building
Sustainability and the Role of Finance
Data!
Branding Finance of the Future
Course Wrap Up

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores various aspects of financial management, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field
Brings real-world insights from the instructors' experience as CFOs and corporate directors
Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills through case studies and real-world examples
Enhances understanding of financial analysis, risk management, and strategic planning
Provides a strong foundation for financial professionals seeking to advance their careers
Requires participants to have a solid understanding of finance concepts and principles

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Chief Financial Officer Leadership Program with these activities:
Review accounting principles
Sharpen your understanding of basic accounting concepts to strengthen your foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Accounting
Show steps
  • Review your notes or textbooks on accounting principles.
  • Take practice quizzes or solve problems related to accounting principles.
  • Consider joining online forums or discussion groups to engage with other learners and experts in the field.
Read: Corporate Finance: Theory and Practice
This book will provide you with a comprehensive overview of corporate finance concepts and practices, reinforcing your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
  • Read the assigned chapters thoroughly
  • Take notes and highlight key points
  • Complete the exercises and case studies at the end of each chapter
Complete Online Tutorials on Corporate Finance
Following guided tutorials will provide you with a structured and interactive way to learn about corporate finance concepts at your own pace.
Browse courses on Corporate Finance
Show steps
  • Identify relevant online tutorials
  • Set aside dedicated time for completing the tutorials
  • Take notes and ask questions as needed
  • Apply what you've learned in the tutorials to your coursework
11 other activities
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Show all 14 activities
Financial Statement Analysis Practice
Enhance your ability to analyze financial statements by engaging in regular practice exercises.
Show steps
  • Gather a set of financial statements from a reputable company. Note: Use publicly traded companies for best results.
  • Use the financial statements to calculate key financial ratios and metrics.
  • Interpret the results of your analysis and identify any areas of strength or weakness. Note: You may consider researching industry benchmarks for comparison.
Walkthrough: Fast Close Implementation
Learn how other organizations implement the fast close process, especially within the finance function, to gain insights you can use to develop your own strategy.
Show steps
  • Search online videos on how companies implement fast close processes.
  • Identify 2-3 companies in your industry who have successfully implemented fast close processes.
  • Contact these companies to request information about their fast close implementation process and results. Be sure to highlight how the insights gained can be applied to your organization
  • Document your findings and share your knowledge with your team.
Develop a Presentation on Strategic Management
Creating a presentation will reinforce your understanding of strategic management concepts and allow you to synthesize the information in a meaningful way.
Browse courses on Strategic Management
Show steps
  • Research and gather information on strategic management concepts
  • Develop an outline for your presentation
  • Create visual aids to support your presentation
  • Practice delivering your presentation
Solve Practice Problems on Financial Statement Analysis
Regular practice with solving problems will enhance your ability to analyze financial statements and make informed decisions based on financial data.
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks
  • Set aside dedicated time for practicing
  • Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement
  • Apply your skills to real-world financial statements
Join a Study Group for Financial Risk Management
Participating in a study group will provide you with opportunities to discuss complex financial risk concepts with your peers and deepen your understanding.
Browse courses on Financial Risk Management
Show steps
  • Find a study group or create your own
  • Set regular meeting times
  • Prepare discussion topics and materials
  • Facilitate discussions and share insights
Strategic Plan Outline
Develop a comprehensive outline for a strategic plan, incorporating the key elements covered in the course.
Browse courses on Strategic Planning
Show steps
  • Identify the purpose and scope of the strategic plan.
  • Conduct an internal and external analysis to gather relevant information.
  • Define the organization's mission, vision, and values.
  • Develop strategic objectives and goals aligned with the organization's priorities.
  • Identify potential risks and opportunities that may impact the plan's implementation.
Develop a Financial Model for a Business Case
Building a financial model will allow you to apply your knowledge of financial analysis and forecasting to a real-world business scenario.
Browse courses on Financial Modeling
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  • Gather data on the business case
  • Develop assumptions and projections
  • Create a financial model using a spreadsheet or modeling software
  • Analyze the results of your model
  • Present your findings and recommendations
Create a Presentation on the Role of the CFO in Strategic Decision-Making
Developing a presentation will help you understand the crucial role of the CFO in shaping and implementing strategic initiatives within an organization.
Browse courses on Strategic Decision-Making
Show steps
  • Research the role of the CFO in strategic decision-making
  • Gather case studies or examples to support your points
  • Develop an outline and visual aids for your presentation
  • Practice delivering your presentation
Financial Leadership Workshop
Attend a workshop led by experienced financial leaders to gain practical insights and best practices.
Show steps
  • Research and identify reputable financial leadership workshops in your area.
  • Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and career goals.
  • Actively participate in the workshop, engage with the講師, and network with other attendees.
  • Follow up with the講師 and attendees after the workshop to continue the learning process.
Develop a Financial Plan for a Startup Company
Working on a real-world project will give you hands-on experience in applying your knowledge of financial management to a practical business scenario.
Browse courses on Financial Planning
Show steps
  • Identify a business concept and develop a value proposition
  • Conduct market research and industry analysis
  • Create financial projections and assumptions
  • Identify potential investors and develop a fundraising strategy
  • Refine your financial plan based on feedback and due diligence
Finance Transformation Project
Lead a project to improve a specific area of your organization's finance function, applying the concepts learned in the course.
Show steps
  • Identify an area within the finance function that needs improvement.
  • Develop a project plan that outlines the scope, objectives, and timeline.
  • Gather a team of stakeholders and experts to support the project.
  • Implement the project plan and track progress regularly.
  • Evaluate the outcomes of the project and identify areas for further improvement.

Career center

Learners who complete Chief Financial Officer Leadership Program will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Chief Financial Officer
You are likely most interested in this course because you are looking to get into or advance as a Financial professional. This course was designed exactly for you. It will help you build a foundation in financial analysis, financial risk management, financial strategy, and how to make valuable contributions as a business develops, analyzes, implements, and evaluates corporate strategy, which is exactly what a Chief Financial Officer may be responsible for.
Financial Analyst
The course description says that you are already a financial professional. If you are looking to advance your career beyond that, then this course can help you do it. Financial Analysts can often find themselves participating in corporate strategy. This course can help you prepare for that.
Investment Banker
Taking this course will help you build a foundation in financial analysis and financial strategy. Investment Bankers utilize both skillsets often.
Risk Analyst
This course will provide you with a foundation in financial risk management. This can help you to become a Risk Analyst. It teaches you how to analyze financial statements and identify and mitigate enterprise risks.
Corporate Controller
Corporate Controllers must understand financial analysis and interpretation. You will learn to do this in this course.
Auditor
This course helps you analyze financial statements. Auditors also perform this task.
Investment Manager
This course includes lessons on setting financing strategy and choosing where to seek financing. These skills will help you excel as an Investment Manager.
Financial Manager
Financial Managers often are responsible for financial strategy and financial analysis. You will learn both skillsets in this course.
Portfolio Manager
This course can be useful to you if you want to build a foundation in financial analysis and strategy. Portfolio Managers make use of both skillsets.
Sales Manager
As a Sales Manager, you can benefit from this course's coverage of financial analysis, financial strategy, and managing change.
Project Manager
This course may be useful to you if you wish to learn about developing and implementing strategy. Project Managers may use these skills.
Management Consultant
This course may be useful to you if you are interested in learning more about corporate strategy development. Management Consultants often make use of this knowledge.
Business Analyst
You can benefit from this course's coverage of financial analysis, business strategy, and managing change as a Business Analyst.
Data Analyst
This course may be useful to you if you would like to learn more about how to analyze financial data. Data Analysts make use of these skills.
Software Engineer
This course may be useful to you if you are interested in learning more about financial analysis and risk management. Software Engineers in the financial sector make use of these skills.

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Chief Financial Officer Leadership Program.
Provides a comprehensive overview of key performance indicators (KPIs). It covers a wide range of topics, including KPI development, KPI implementation, and KPI analysis.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the fast close process. It covers a wide range of topics, including fast close techniques, fast close tools, and fast close best practices.
This book, focused on trust and credibility, would be a valuable addition to the syllabus topic of ‘Increasing Credibility and Influence.’
Provides a practical guide to making change happen. It covers a wide range of topics, including change management models, change management tools, and change management techniques.
Provides a comprehensive overview of financial reporting and analysis. It covers a wide range of topics, including financial statements, financial ratios, and financial modeling.
This framework valuable resource for understanding enterprise risk management, providing additional depth to the syllabus topic.

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