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Most CFOs don't start their careers directing Shakespeare. Scott Drummond did.  Now CFO at REIQ, Scott sits down with Sumith to unpack his unusual journey from theatre to finance. He reckons the skills that made him a good director – proper listening, bringing out the best in teams, seeing the big picture – are exactly what CFOs need today. They also dig into what finance transformation actually looks like in a membership organisation, how to manage AI without the panic, and why Scott sees his role as "the backstop in baseball."  Worth a listen if you're interested in how people end up where they are. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode, host Sumith talks with Rebecca He, founder of RHCFO Consulting in Brisbane. Rebecca shares her unique journey from door-to-door sales in Shanghai at age 14 to becoming a transformational CFO with 25 years of experience across ASX-listed companies and startups. Rebecca's early sales background gives her a distinct advantage – understanding that business is about human connections, not just numbers. This has made her exceptionally effective at collaborating with sales teams where many CFOs struggle. She discusses her practical approach to AI and automation, including developing the Dental Online Voucher Exchange for Queensland Health – a $20,000 solution that saved 184,000 patient wait days in its first year. Rebecca addresses fears about AI replacing accountants, arguing this is actually the best time to enter the profession as AI handles mundane tasks, freeing finance professionals for strategic work. The conversation covers fractional CFO services, ESG reporting, outsourcing strategies, and Rebecca's personal passions including competitive fencing (she's now a national medallist). Her advice for CFOs in the AI age? Stay open-minded, curious, and have fun with the journey. This episode offers practical insights for finance leaders looking to embrace transformation while maintaining the human touch that makes great CFOs effective  Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode, Books to the Boardroom had the pleasure of speaking with Andrew Edwards, CFO at Perfection Fresh Australia, who shared his remarkable journey from aspiring tradesman to finance leader. Andrew's career path took him through BP's global operations, where he developed the communication skills and inquisitive mindset that became his defining strengths. We explored how Andrew navigated becoming a management accountant by 24, his philosophy of "don't avoid the risk, manage the risk," and why he believes the future of finance lies in moving beyond traditional accounting into data interpretation and business partnership. Andrew also shared practical insights on leading offshore teams, choosing the right technology, and why being uncomfortable is essential for growth. What really struck us was Andrew's approach to developing his team - he wants people who "come into work wanting to be better today than they were yesterday." His emphasis on curiosity, understanding operations beyond the numbers, and taking on projects outside your comfort zone offers valuable guidance for anyone aspiring to senior finance roles. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

"Understanding the problem puts you 50% of the way to addressing it." In this episode of Books of the Boardroom, Season Three of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes Simon Turner, CFO and ELT member with nearly three decades of experience in finance. Simon shares insights from his unique career path, from serving on nuclear missile submarines in the Royal Navy to becoming a CFO. They discuss leadership, the importance of addressing problems head-on, the evolution of data analytics, the role of ESG in modern business, and the potential impact of AI on SMEs. Simon also offers practical advice for upcoming finance professionals and underscores the significance of integrating operational focus within the CFO role. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of 'Books of the Boardroom' podcast, Sumith chats with Andre Luchesi, Group CFO at Westpork and DBC in Western Australia. Andre's got a really interesting story - from corporate life to running his own ice cream business in Brazil and back to the CFO world. Andre talks about how economic cycles really work, why understanding the big picture macro stuff matters so much for CFOs, and how scooping ice cream taught him more about business empathy than any boardroom ever could. The conversation covers some great ground - AI and digital finance, why ESG reporting is becoming crucial, and what it's really like to juggle entrepreneurship with corporate finance. Andre's advice for aspiring CFOs? Follow your passions and keep adapting because the finance world never stops changing. This one's packed with practical insights and some pretty genuine reflections on what it takes to succeed in finance leadership today. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes Winston Abeyeratne, CFO at Conference Group in South Australia.  Winston shares his immigration journey, starting 12 years ago, and his career transition from audit trainee at KPMG in Sri Lanka to various roles in the finance sector in Australia. He discusses the importance of backing statements with numbers, the challenges of working with high-net-worth individuals, and provides advice for new migrants and aspiring CFOs on building a career in finance. The conversation also delves into the evolving role of CFOs, the impact of AI and machine learning on the finance industry, and the significance of continuous learning and process review.  Winston offers his insights on earning respect in new roles, mentoring younger professionals, and the benefits of embracing flexibility and creativity in financial leadership  Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Navigating the People-Centric Transformation in Finance In this episode of the Books to the Boardroom, season three of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith is joined by Ben Edmonds, CFO at Alberts in Sydney. The conversation covers Ben's career journey from an early interest in tourism management to becoming a CFO, highlighting the influence of his father and his practical experiences in various financial roles.  Ben emphasises the transformative nature of the CFO role, the importance of people and leadership in business, and the evolving landscape of accounting. He also discusses the significance of digital transformation, ESG initiatives, and the challenges young CFOs face today.  Ben provides insights into managing change, maintaining professional development, and balancing technical skills with human interaction. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring finance professionals on building a successful career in accounting. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Leadership Insights: Navigating the Modern CFO Role with Christina Temme In this episode of the Books to the Boardroom CFO Catalyst podcast, we speak with Christina Temme, CFO at AC3 in Sydney. Christina shares her extensive experience in finance, legal, and compliance, discussing the evolving scope of the CFO role and the importance of logic, decision-making, and embracing change.  She highlights her journey through a solo backpacking adventure, her passion for mathematics, and her strategies for managing teams and implementing change. Christina also delves into critical issues like digital and finance transformation, ESG requirements, and offers valuable advice for young finance professionals. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of the CFO Catalyst Podcast, host Sumith welcomes David Hill, CFO of Mosh. They delve into the unchanging fundamentals of business and the evolving tools and skills required for successful financial leadership. David shares his unique journey from childhood entertainer to top finance executive, discussing the importance of critical thought, communication, and problem-solving in the CFO role. They also explore the democratisation of finance, the impact of AI and digital transformation, and the need for a nimble organisational structure.  Tune in for insights on how CFOs can stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Key takeaway from Sumith What struck me most was his "rear-view mirror, front windscreen, and peripheral vision" approach to financial leadership. As he says, "CFOs of the future have to be engineering level digital savvy to navigate the businesses of the future." David's non-linear career path has given him unique insights on bridging theory with practice - something I believe makes the best finance leaders. Tune in this Sunday! Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Adapting to Change: Lifelong Learning and Technological Advancement with Luke Howes  In this episode of the Books of the Boardroom podcast, season three of CFO Catalyst, the host interviews Luke Howes, CFO at Six Degrees Executive. They discuss the importance of lifelong learning and curiosity in both personal and professional development. Luke shares insights into the values-led and relationship-driven approach of Six Degrees Executive, as well as the significance of serving all stakeholders, including clients, candidates, and employees.  The conversation also delves into Luke's unique career journey, from studying classical languages at Oxford University to his immersion in Japanese culture. They touch upon the challenges and strategies involved in technology advancement and data quality in the finance sector.  Luke emphasises the need for a growth mindset, strategic planning, and maintaining data accuracy to leverage AI effectively. He also discusses the critical role of empathetic leadership and mentorship in shaping successful finance professionals.  Finally, they explore the evolving role of the CFO over the next decade, highlighting the necessity of data literacy and strategic thinking. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In this episode of the Books to the Boardroom Podcast, Season Three CFO Catalyst, I welcomed Scott Walkinshaw, CFO of New North Feed, Western Australia's largest vehicle equipment, transport, and crane company. Scott shared how businesses face tremendous pressure today - squeezed between clients demanding more for less and staff wanting flexible arrangements. Technology is the key to doing more without adding overhead. Scott had a fascinating journey, including meeting the Queen at 19 as an apprentice mechanic, working as a bouncer, and eventually finding his way to finance after his grandmother's advice. "Numbers make sense to me," he explained. We laughed about how our families still think CFOs are just tax accountants at shopping centers! Scott reflected on finance's evolution from number-crunching to strategic partnership, with automation handling transactions so people can focus on adding real value. Scott is a big fan of cloud technology, enabling work from anywhere while eliminating infrastructure costs. Though automation helps with workloads, compliance requirements keep increasing, requiring specialized tools and proper planning. Looking ahead, Scott believes humans will always be crucial in finance. His advice for upcoming CFOs emphasises emotional intelligence alongside technical skills - understanding people and staying curious are essential in our evolving profession  Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Join host Sumith and guest Manuel Nesta, a senior finance professional based in Perth, Australia. Manuel shares insights from his career journey and current role as CFO at Acquire, a software company specialising in natural resources and ESG compliance. Key points: The evolution of finance from transaction processing to strategic advisoryDigital transformation and automation in finance departmentsHow AI is revolutionizing financial processes and decision-makingThe growing importance of ESG reporting in the natural resources sectorLeveraging finance expertise to drive business strategy and growthMindset transformation needed when adopting new technologiesInsights on the role of immigrants in Australia's finance sectorPractical advice for aspiring accountants and finance leadersThe conversation explores how finance functions are evolving from transactional roles to becoming trusted business advisors. Manuel discusses digital transformation in finance processes, the critical role of AI and automation, and the increasing importance of ESG reporting in driving better decision-making and strategic growth. Drawing from his unique background in mountain climbing and family business, Manuel offers perspectives on mindset transformation when adopting new technologies. The episode also examines the contributions of immigrants in Australia's finance sector and includes valuable advice for aspiring accountants and finance leaders. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

In the latest episode of the Boardroom Podcast's CFO Catalyst series, host Sumith welcomes Martin Gyde, an experienced CFO from New Zealand who calls himself "the Gordon Ramsay of Finance."  Martin shares his journey from aspiring policeman to senior financial professional, influenced by his father, a former retail CEO. With his competitive nature shaped by a background in high-level rugby and tennis, Martin brings a refreshingly direct approach to financial leadership. After 25 years in CFO and CEO roles, Martin now helps struggling businesses through his consultancy, focusing on turnarounds and strategic transformation.  He discusses his five-point framework for business success, the importance of clear communication, and how the CFO role has evolved beyond numbers to become a crucial strategic partnership. Martin also provides valuable insights on navigating cultural change, implementing AI in finance operations, addressing cybersecurity challenges, and preparing for ESG reporting requirements.  This episode delivers practical wisdom for financial leaders operating in today's complex business environment.  Connect with Martin at [email protected] or on LinkedIn. Proudly sponsored by Brisca Global with production and distribution by disruptX.one. Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Navigating the Finance Role in the Era of AI: Insights from Jarrod Magee, CFO of Sapia.ai In this episode of "Books of the Boardroom Podcast" (Season 3: CFO Catalyst), host Smith dives deep with Jarrod Magee, CFO of Sapia.ai, exploring how artificial intelligence is transforming the finance function. Jarrod shares his journey from Deloitte consultant to C-suite executive, revealing the challenges and pivotal decisions that shaped his career. Get an insider's look at Sapia.ai’s cutting-edge recruitment technology that's eliminating bias and revolutionising hiring processes. The conversation explores practical strategies for modern finance leaders, including: Strategic outsourcing of transactional finance operationsImplementing automation to drive business efficiencyBuilding cross-functional partnerships beyond the finance departmentWhether you're an established CFO or aspiring finance leader, Jarrod offers actionable advice on professional development and building a powerful industry network. This episode highlights how today's finance executives must balance technical expertise with strategic vision in the age of AI. Subscribe now to hear this insightful conversation about the evolving role of finance in technology-driven organisations.   00:00 Introduction to the Industry 00:29 Welcome to Books of the Boardroom Podcast 01:07 Meet Jarrod Magee: CFO at Sapient AI 01:22 Jarrod's Early Life and Sports Journey 03:09 Transition to Finance and Career Evolution 06:39 Insights from Working in Multinational Companies 07:56 Challenges in the Commercial Environment 09:46 Sapient AI: Revolutionizing Recruitment 16:45 Outsourcing and Automation in Finance 22:17 Advice for Aspiring CFOs 25:58 Personal Development and Networking 28:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Auditing with EY's Madhu Nair In this episode of the Books of the Boardroom podcast, host Sumith talks with Madhu Nair, Partner at EY Australia, who brings nearly three decades of experience in the accounting profession. Madhu takes us on his professional journey from handwritten ledgers in India to becoming a Partner at one of the Big Four firms. He shares how his accountant father inspired his career choice and reflects on the satisfaction he's found staying with EY for 25 years while many peers migrated to commercial roles. The conversation explores the seismic shifts in the audit and assurance landscape: How organisations have grown exponentially in size and complexityThe post-Enron regulatory framework transformationsTechnology's integration into every facet of financial reportingThe challenge of converting vast data points into meaningful informationThe evolution from offshoring to near-shoring and friend-shoringParticularly insightful is Madhu's perspective on the expanding definition of stakeholders beyond shareholders, employees, and customers to include communities and governments—especially as sustainability reporting becomes mandatory. As AI and automation reshape the industry, Madhu offers a balanced view on what can be automated versus where human judgment remains irreplaceable. Madhu provides refreshing perspective on the importance of community and peer influence in career decisions, revealing how his cohort of colleagues has been instrumental in his professional satisfaction. He also addresses expected future trends in financial auditing, including the continued evolution of sustainability reporting requirements. This episode delivers valuable wisdom from "the other side of the table" for finance leaders navigating today's dynamic business environment.   00:00 Connecting with My Dad Through Accounting 00:31 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:07 Madhu Nair's Professional Journey 06:15 Challenges and Changes in the Auditing Industry 10:57 Technological Advancements and Their Impact 17:48 Sustainability and Regulatory Changes 22:22 The Role of AI in Accounting 24:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Thanks for tuning in to Books to the Boardroom! If you enjoyed today's episode, take your leadership journey further: 🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts  🔔 Never miss an episode—follow us on LinkedIn and your favourite podcast platform  📱 Share your takeaways with #CFOCatalyst Are you a CFO with insights to share or know someone who is? We're always looking for financial leaders to join us on the show—reach out at [email protected] to discuss featuring your expertise on a future episode. Until next week, keep reading, keep listening!