Episode 12: How 10 CFOs and Senior Leaders Harness Data to Drive Strategy

Editor’s Note

In this episode, ten CFOs and senior leaders shared their insights on how they harness data to drive strategy within their respective organizations. These experts, all key players in the world of finance, unveiled the significance of data in shaping strategic decision-making.

Eric Ball, Co-Founder and General Partner at Impact Venture Capital, underlined the importance of data in identifying investment opportunities. By analyzing industry trends and startup performance metrics, Ball’s team can make data-driven decisions to bolster their portfolio’s success.

Former CFO at Smartsheet, Jennifer Ceran, spoke about her experience using data to enhance operational efficiency. Ceran highlighted how data analysis helped Smartsheet streamline its internal processes, improving both productivity and profitability.

Michael Dinkins, President, and CEO at Dinkins Financial, discussed how data informs his firm’s financial strategies. By leveraging financial data, Dinkins’ team is better equipped to advise clients on asset management, risk mitigation, and investment opportunities.

At RippleNami, Chairman and CEO Jaye Connolly-Labelle harnesses data to drive the company’s mission of connecting unconnected populations. Connolly-Labelle spoke passionately about how data helps to illuminate patterns, trends, and opportunities to make a positive social impact.

Deloitte’s Niklas Bergentoft, a Principal in Global Treasury Advisory Services, talked about the crucial role of data in risk management and financial forecasting. By using data, Bergentoft’s team is able to identify potential financial risks and provide timely advisory services to their clients.

Katherine Edenbach, CAO at Emburse, illustrated how data is key to financial transparency and accountability. She emphasized the role of data in tracking expenses, improving budgeting, and ensuring the efficient use of resources.

Kyriba’s former Chief Evangelist, Wolfgang Koester, and its former CFO, Hamza Benamar, both emphasized the importance of data in treasury management. From forecasting cash flow to managing foreign exchange risk, they demonstrated how data-driven strategies are central to Kyriba’s operations.

Nasdaq’s CFO, Ann Dennison, and Avalara’s CFO, Ross Tennenbaum, both highlighted the growing role of data in the financial markets. From informing investment strategies to predicting market trends, they both agreed that the ability to interpret and apply data is fundamental to success in today’s dynamic financial landscape.