Welcome to The Finance Super Bowl 🏈 Ready to Win?

The clock is ticking. It’s near the end of the fourth quarter, and the pressure is high. The ball is snapped, and the receiver catches it and he’s off—he’s going, he’s going… he’s gone! Touchdown! 

Your team got the win. Congratulations, they’re heading to the Super Bowl.

What does all this have to do with finance? Turns out, football and finance aren’t all that different. A star quarterback can’t win the game alone—each team needs a great roster, meticulous playbook and hours of practice. Every player has a major role, and forecasting (and adapting) are all critical for a winning team. 

It’s finance’s job to get the first down that will carry the organization to the Finance Super Bowl. And here’s the thing—you can win. Every time.

Who better to talk to about the intersection of football and finance than Dan Crumb, CFO of the Kansas City Chiefs?

Plan. Prepare. Adapt. 

Every winning team needs a great playbook. In football, this playbook covers all possible formations, how to respond when adversaries push back, and how to adapt on the fly when the unexpected happens.

Finance needs the same thing. Forecasting, scenario planning, and clear, outlined communication are vital—especially with uncertain times ahead. 

Without agile adaptation skills, finance teams risk fumbling the ball just before the clock hits zero.

Practice—on the field and in the boardroom

The best playbook can’t carry a team to the championships unless they’re well-practiced. 

Whereas your favorite football team dedicates hours and hours to training and conditioning, your team should invest time and energy into continuous growth and improvement.

Finance is constantly evolving. Hold regular meetings with stakeholders, team members, and the Board of Directors to ensure everyone is up to the challenge.

Coaches are the make-or-break

Behind every winning team is a strong coach. As CFO, you’re charged with leading the way. Ensure you’re up to speed on all things finance and operations. Lead by example by embracing collaboration, communication and creative adaptation. 

Always go in with a plan

If luck plays a role in bringing you the win, it’s a very small portion of the equation.

You need to have the right players in the right positions. Top talent and new talent need to be balanced for optimal performance and innovation. Don’t be afraid to draft new players, and reassign legacy team members to positions where their strengths shine.

Keep your teams and organization focused by building a script, itinerary and goal for every meeting. But be sure to leave space for adaptation and questions.

After all, a Hail Mary for the win does make for great entertainment. A strong strategy, thorough practice, a top-tier leader, and the ability to adapt are what it takes to set up your team for that opportunity.

In case you missed it…

Want to make sure your team is at its’ very best? We shared the People Metrics that really matter, how to track them, and what you can do to support your team and organization. 

What’s next…

2024 is right around the corner. With uncertainty looming, finance leaders everywhere are left wanting for answers. Join Tom and Melissa to discuss the top 5 FP&A predictions to carry you into the new year with confidence. 

We share everything you need to catalyze your career and revolutionize your business. To hear the best advice from today’s finance visionaries, tune into The CFO Show today.