CFO 4.0 Podcast

286. The New CFO: What Does It Really Take to Step Up Into the CFO Role? with Nicola Horton

CFO 4.0 Podcast

Show Notes

In this episode of CFO 4.0, host Hannah Munro is joined by Nicola Horton, Principal at the CFO Centre, to explore what it really takes to step up into the CFO seat and thrive once you're there Nicola draws on her own journey from financial controller to CFO, including leading a business turnaround in her first CFO role, as well as nine years spent coaching finance leaders through that same transition - sharing practical lessons on everything from building the right team to nurturing bank relationships that take years to earn trust.

In this episode we cover: Why starting a CFO role at a new company can be easier than an internal promotion The most common gap when people step up: letting go of the detail and thinking strategically How to build trust with your bank long before you need their support Why "the right team" matters more than almost anything else How to bring a reluctant owner-manager or board on side with bigger decisions Nicola's advice for making the most of your first 100 days in a new CFO role

Links mentioned: Nicola's Linkedin Learn more about The CFO centre Explore other CFO 4.0 Podcast episodes here. Subscribe to our Podcast!

More from CFO 4.0 Podcast

Oct 13, 2026

In this CFO 4.0 Revisited episode, Hannah Munro talks with Jeremy Foster, now CFO at Kasasa and formerly CFO of Talroo, to explore why some of the most effective finance leaders don't fit the traditional CFO mould. Jeremy shares his unconventional journey to the CFO seat and explains how stepping beyond conventional finance thinking can help organisations move faster, make better decisions, and support sustainable growth.

Sep 29, 2026

In this episode of CFO 4.0 Revisited, Hannah Munro is joined by Andrew MacAskill, Founder of Executive Career Jump and a finance professional dedicated to helping senior leaders accelerate their careers. Together, they explore what organisations are really looking for in CFOs, how finance professionals can position themselves for new opportunities, and the practical steps finance leaders can take to future-proof their careers.

Sep 22, 2026

In this episode of CFO 4.0, Hannah Munro speaks with Evan Campbell, author of Adapt to Win, about the often-overlooked gap between strategy and execution. From allocating resources effectively to prioritising the right initiatives and measuring success, Evan shares practical insights for finance leaders looking to maximise returns on strategic investments. The discussion explores how CFOs can create alignment across the business, improve decision-making, and drive lasting competitive advantage.

Sep 15, 2026

In this episode of The Fractional CFO Files, Hannah Munro is joined by Adrian Message from The CFO Centre to explore what truly defines a successful fractional CFO. Drawing on years of experience supporting businesses through growth, change and uncertainty, Adrian shares why trust, adaptability and strong relationships often matter more than technical expertise alone.

Sep 1, 2026

This week we're revisiting Hannah Munro's conversation with Ash Noah, VP & Managing Director of Learning, Education and Development at AICPA & CIMA, on the mindset shifts CFOs need to close the gap between what finance delivers and what the business actually needs.

See all episodes →