Based on my experience as a former CEO and director on the boards of numerous companies, these are the expectations that CEOs and boards have of their CFO. CFOs who meet these expectations will earn trust and confidence and be effective in their role.

A preferred provider is the business that everyone wants to buy from versus its competition. You differentiate yourself from your competitors. You give your customers or clients a great experience. You treat your employees with respect and as valued assets and help them develop a sense of ownership in what...

Should policies and practices that make little sense or impede the success of a staff or line unit be challenged? Absolutely! Many employees feel “that’s just the way it is.” Not true. Don’t micromanage—empower employees and hold them accountable for results. Companies that adopt these principles as part of their...