Tom is one of the most influential voices in finance leadership, a well-known LinkedIn influencer, and a passionate advocate for the evolution of finance leaders. Together, they unpack the growing pressure on today’s CFOs, the evolving expectations of finance functions, and the skills needed to stay relevant in a world shaped by AI and digital transformation.
CFOs are now expected to drive transformation, lead strategy, and still deliver flawless numbers every month. In this conversation, Wassia and Tom explore how finance leaders can balance performance with transformation, embrace AI as a strategic partner, and build the skillsets that define the next generation of CFOs.
Whether you’re leading a finance function, navigating the evolving role of CFO, or preparing for your first executive seat, this episode offers practical insights on strategy, leadership, and human connection in a tech-driven business environment.
Key Takeaways
The Changing Role of the CFO: The CFO role has moved from just managing finances to being a strategic partner to the CEO, navigating complex challenges like AI adoption and data strategy.
Upskilling and Reskilling: Finance teams need to focus on developing a broader skillset—becoming T-shaped professionals with strong technical knowledge and the ability to collaborate and think strategically.
AI's Role in Finance: While AI can automate transactional tasks, it will never replace the need for human judgment in strategic decision-making. CFOs will need to leverage AI for efficiency while maintaining their leadership role in business direction.
Networking and Career Growth: Tom emphasizes the importance of networking and collaboration in building a successful career. He shares how his connections and continuous learning shaped his journey from corporate roles to his leadership position at AICPA.
Human-Centric Leadership: As technology automates routine tasks, the human touch becomes even more vital in leadership. Empathy and talent development remain key to navigating uncertainty.
Noteworthy Quotes
"We have to perform while we transform." – Tom Hood
"AI is going to augment us, not replace us." – Tom Hood
"The number one pathway to CEO right now is through the CFO." – Tom Hood
"You can’t differentiate between a social network relationship and a real-life relationship." – Tom Hood
Key Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Tom Hood's journey and leadership at AICPA
05:24 – The evolution of the CFO role into a strategic partner
08:48 – Key changes in finance leadership since the pandemic
12:00 – The importance of AI in finance and its impact on finance roles
16:24 – How upskilling and reskilling are reshaping finance teams
22:59 – The role of human-centric leadership in navigating uncertainty
25:22 – The future of networking in finance and the importance of continuous learning
31:29 – Tom Hood’s career advice and lessons learned
📬 Get Involved
Have a question or topic suggestion?
Email: Ask@thediaryofacfo.com
🔗 Connect with Guest Tom Hood on:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhood
Twitter: https://x.com/tomhood?lang=en
Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA & CIMA): https://www.aicpa-cima.com/
Upskilling & Reskilling Resources - Business Learning Institute (BLI): https://blionline.org
Business Resilience Toolkit: https://www.aicpa-cima.com/advocacy/download/business-resilience-toolkit
F.A.M.E. Finance Assessment Model for Effectiveness https://blionline.org/finance-assessment-model-for-effectiveness
🔗 Connect with Host Wassia Kamon on
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wassiakamon/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wassiakamon/
🔗 Connect with The Diary of a CFO Podcast on
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-diary-of-a-cfo-podcast/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thediaryofacfopodcast/featured
Website: https://www.thediaryofacfo.com
X (Twitter): https://x.com/thediaryofacfo?
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@csuitestories?-