The Strategic CFO: Leading With Data
In this issue, we explore how CFOs are leveraging data skills to lead in the age of AI. With advanced analytics and a strong data foundation, finance leaders are balancing innovation, risk, and financial control to make smarter business decisions.
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AI Skills for the Modern CFO
As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in business operations, CFOs are under increasing pressure to strengthen their data and decision-making intelligence. According to Stephen Harris, Field Chief Data and AI Officer of the Americas for Thoughtspot, finance leaders today must use data as their guiding principle to balance innovation with financial control and strategy.
“Modern CFOS need to fulfill the dual mandate of being an opportunistic leader that can both drive innovation, be the balance of power for financial controls, but also be the instrument that…holds the ball in terms of understanding where they can get the best set of outcomes. To do so, they need to “rely heavily on their North Star, which is the data.”
-Stephen Harris (Field Chief Data and AI Officer of the Americas for Thoughtspot)
AI’s growing role has made it essential for CFOs to develop advanced data interpretation skills. They are now expected to identify where AI can bring value, assess its risks, and ensure their companies have reliable data to support these initiatives. A strong data foundation allows finance teams to make informed decisions and prevents costly mistakes tied to inaccurate or poorly managed information.
Harris highlighted that collaboration between finance and data leaders is critical. Both groups must align on business priorities and maintain a unified understanding of the company’s data infrastructure. This alignment supports smarter, faster decision-making and positions finance as a strategic driver of innovation.
The evolving relationship between CFOs and Chief Data Officers (CDOs) has been central to this shift. While most organizations now have a CDO or data analytics leader, the role is still developing. As companies continue to invest in better data quality and governance, finance can take the lead in ensuring those investments translate into strategic and measurable outcomes.
Instead of trying to overhaul entire systems at once, CFOs and their teams should focus on identifying specific data challenges and connecting them to business goals. Viewing data issues through a financial lens—such as understanding how they affect profit and loss—can help gain executive buy-in and make improvements more impactful.
Ultimately, as AI continues to transform business operations, CFOs who strengthen their data literacy and foster collaboration across departments will be best positioned to guide their organizations toward innovation and long-term success.
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