ERP SOLUTIONS

One of the most challenging topics facing an owner or CEO of an expanding organization or those altering their strategy is, “Who sits in second command of my organization?”

The CFO or high-level financial manager in organizations truly wears multiple hats in today’s businesses.  They indeed are the de facto “do-it-all.” Their skill set by default needs to encompass their core experience as a financial manager but over the years they now need to have acquired an understanding of enterprise wide solutions and infrastructure to meet organizational goals set by the CEOs.

So what should you be looking for in a technology oriented CFO?

Remember, IT Strategy is a part of the overall organizational strategy and goals that the “C” level execs must execute not the other way around.  The financial officer needs to come to you with that mind set and not to defer that responsibility through hiring IT management or staff.

Another quality to look for is someone who has had the experience of going through bad technology rollouts (hopefully they were not responsible).  This has a long lasting positive effect on that executive to balance the appropriate level of technology with organizational goals, a better appreciation of real costs and an understanding of Return on Investment of a project well done.

Unless you are FEDEX or AMAZON, where there is a clear need for executive level expertise in technology, most organizations would suffice with a financial officer who has a good understanding of technology.

Consider a financial manager who is willing to accept the responsibility and understanding of what importance technology, IT management and strategy play into your organization.

Although you can outsource similar functions to a finite point, it may not be in your best interest as an outside company (recruiting, consulting, etc.) has its own financial best interests at heart.

by Robert Eppele, CEO ERP Solutions, Inc. Copright ©02.12.2010

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