The skills finance teams need now and in the future with Carl Seidman

In this episode of The Growth-Minded CFO, hosts Lauren Pearl and Alex Louisy welcome industry-leading finance educator Carl Seidman to talk through the evolving skills needs of leading finance teams.

Listen or watch for a deep dive into how finance functions are transforming, what this means for training and development and the pivotal role the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) plays as a strategic leader.

Carl Seidman: From Consultant to Educator

Carl shares his career journey, which began in Big Four consulting and later transitioned into becoming a renowned educator in finance. His experience across various organizational sizes, from small startups to Fortune 500 companies, provides a comprehensive perspective on the diverse roles a CFO must play. One key takeaway is the need for finance leaders to coach and develop internal teams rather than rely solely on external consultants—creating a more self-sufficient and capable finance department.

Bridging the Skills Gap in Finance

Carl emphasizes the importance of skills development in finance teams. He notes that younger professionals often start with strong technical skills but may lack the broader business understanding necessary for higher leadership roles.

By encouraging critical thinking, strategic awareness, and effective communication, finance leaders can cultivate a workforce that is not only technically proficient but also strategically insightful.

The Role of Empathy and Communication

Throughout the conversation, the necessity of empathy and clear communication in finance is highlighted. By understanding and engaging with other departments, finance professionals can better align with organizational goals and foster collaborative environments. This interconnectedness is essential for effective financial integration into broader business strategies.

" It starts and ends with empathy and I don't mean empathy towards me. I mean, empathy towards you...Everything hits finance, but everything hits finance after the fact. It's driven by something else. And so, while I care about finance, I'm self interested in that way. I have to meet you where you are and make it relevant to you."

Embracing Continuous Learning and Adaptation

Continuous learning and development are critical for success in finance in 2025. Carl discusses how training should be an ongoing journey rather than a one-time event. Building a structured learning and development (L&D) pathway within finance teams ensures continual growth and adaptation to new challenges and technologies.

The Impact of AI and digitization As technology continues to advance, the role of AI and digitization in finance becomes increasingly significant. Carl shares insights into how AI is transforming financial analysis and operations, enabling finance teams to work more efficiently and strategically.

As finance teams embrace new technologies and methodologies, the role of the CFO is evolving to a front-and-center strategic leader. By fostering a culture of empathy, continuous learning, and collaboration, CFOs can lead their organizations towards sustained growth and innovation.