CFO Series: Essential Cost Containment IN-PERSON

 
We all want to make the organization more profitable, but do we do it the best way? Many simply hack away at costs and then repeat the same unwieldy process every eighteen months. Do our internal and external customers truly understand our numbers? There is a better way to communicate financial information, so they DO understand and take the proper actions. Building an effective team always results in improved performance, talent retention and reduces costs. We also discuss the ethics of creativity – is creativity good or bad or a mixed bag? We will discuss how, and specifically what, you can do to rein in costs and get the most from what the organization already has and remains ethical. These four sessions will help you become better at controlling the right costs and becoming more successful.
This course qualifies for 1 hour of Accounting & Auditing credit and 2 hours of Ethics credit.
Module 1: Improving Profitability the Right Way: How to Cut the Right Costs Cost cutting is easy, cutting the right costs is NOT easy. Most cost-cutting exercises fail either; by cutting the wrong costs, cutting too much, ignoring interrelated impacts, taking shortcuts, cutting too little or waiting too late. The internal politics are problematic. One key solution is to take sufficient time to plan properly and assess the true goals and objectives? Planning is essential, we will show you how to cut the right costs correctly and avoid career-killing blunders.
Module 2: Building High Performing Teams: Cohesive Teams Get Results Teamwork is the ultimate competitive advantage both because it is so powerful and so rare. Why do some teams produce and win, while others fail? What do great team leaders do that makes the team a success? Whether you run the executive staff of a multinational company, a small department within a large organization or even if you are a team member in a small team that needs improvement, we will share proven techniques to enhance teamwork. It is not complicated to build a team, but it takes effort, and we will show you how.
Module 3: Do Creative Accountants Belong in Prison? True or False? Creativity is one of the top ten most desirable traits, but should everyone, including accountants, be creative? Are there exceptions? What are the positives and the downsides of creativity? Creativity can be used for good, but creativity can also lead to serious, unethical behaviors. There is a strong relationship between creativity and dishonesty. We will review the negative consequences of creativity and discuss how to properly utilize resourcefulness and imagination. The title is not rhetorical – creativity can easily be great or disreputable, learn how to make it work for you – and be ethical.
Module 4: Storytelling Your Financials for Impact: Narrative Beats Numbers Data alone does not drive decisions—stories do. Financial professionals must go beyond spreadsheets and craft compelling financial narratives that engage boards, CEOs, and team members. Using real-world examples, we will demonstrate how to frame financial results within a broader business story, drawing insights and communicating tangible meaning - instead of just displaying boring numbers. Learn how to shift from “presenting financials” to telling a story that aligns with strategic goals, inspires confidence, and drives action. This session equips attendees with the tools to turn financial statements into strategic storytelling assets. Our clients do not recall numbers, but they do remember stories. Stories are memorable, we will show you how.