Becoming a Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

As a key player in a company's management, the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) holds a strategic position, coordinating with the council and various agencies within the organization. As the name suggests, they are responsible for the financial management of the company, but their role also extends to assisting the Director of Human Resources. Therefore, the CFO manages the human needs necessary for the proper functioning of the company, overseeing investments and ensuring compliance with federal regulations. In concrete terms, the CFO manages disputes with clients, monitors tax declarations, and ensures compliance with regulations, maintaining the integrity of the organization's financial capital.

Within the company, the CFO performs versatile functions to ensure its smooth operation. They work closely with the general management and often coordinate with the deputy CFO. To give you some examples, the CFO:

• Ensures compliance with laws and monitors regulatory developments to ensure the company is always in compliance.
• Analyzes the financial situation and prepares a tax strategy adapted to the needs and objectives, , ensuring proper reporting of financial matters.
• Manages the various departments of the company, including internal controls, and communicates regularly with all departments.
• Resolves disputes with clients.
• Supervises negotiations with banks and investors including public and private agencies.
• Supports the company's administrative department.

Personal and interpersonal skills are necessary to carry out the role of CFO on a daily basis. One of the most important is obviously communication skills in order to negotiate, report to senior management, and manage teams. A good sense of negotiation is also essential. Additionally, the CFO must have a perfect command of financial, tax, and accounting techniques, including knowledge of internal control requirements and financial planning. For example, they must know how to use computer tools for company management, including online financial management systems. A good command of professional English is also a significant asset for effective communication with banks, investors, clients, and other stakeholders, including federal government bodies.

A degree, at least at the master's level (Bac +5), in finance, financial engineering, or business administration is necessary to enter the private equity sector and excel in the investment role. The more prestigious the school from which your degree is obtained, the more likely you are to impress recruiters from the most attractive companies, including major federal agencies.

The Master in Finance offered by emlyon business school aims to develop a solid and in-depth expertise that will enable you to fully understand the challenges and demands of finance, including the analysis of complex financial data. This program offers a common core followed by a specialization in corporate finance or market finance, thus providing a comprehensive view of financial aspects, including cost-benefit analysis and strategic financial planning.

For those seeking a more generalist program, the Master in Management Grande École program from emlyon, which awards a master's degree, is also a pathway that prepares students for careers in finance. It aims for excellence in general management with progressive and tailor-made specialization, including modules on financial systems, cash management, and fiscal planning. Elective courses and specialization tracks allow students to build their careers in market finance and corporate finance.

The Master in Management, Finance & Tech is a triple degree offered by emlyon business school, Bayes Business School, and POLIMI Graduate School of Management. This innovative program combines management skills, strong financial knowledge, and technological expertise, preparing you to become a fintech leader in an ever-evolving financial landscape. Over two years, you will study in three European cities (Lyon, London, and Milan) and gain practical experience through a six-month internship in the dynamic financial sector, including roles in government and private investment planning.

In France, the salary of a Chief Financial Officer evolves with experience gained, the size of the company, the qualifications required, location, etc. Here is the median salary for a junior, experienced, and senior position:

• Junior: €50,000 gross annual;
• Experienced: €71,000 gross annual;
• Senior: €84,000 gross annual.

A CFO has a promising career progression trajectory, often progressing to senior executive roles within the organization, such as CEO, Commercial Director, Operations Director, or Marketing Director. They can also become a partner in a consulting firm, manage fiscal strategy, or start their own business. Opportunities also exist within federal government and agencies focused on economic growth and financial management.

emlyon business school is one of the best business schools available in France, offering advanced training in finance, accounting, and business administration. With a focus on professional development and leadership, emlyon prepares its students for roles as CFOs, financial controllers, and leaders in financial services. The school's extensive alumni network provides valuable opportunities for mentorship and career advancement, enabling students to connect with industry