The role of the Business Controller is indispensable in organisations. Controllers translate figures into strategy, support decision-making and act as a sounding board for management. But how do you make the step to CFO?
The transition from Business Controller to CFO is not straightforward. It requires more than technical financial knowledge — it demands a fundamentally different way of thinking and operating. Where a controller primarily analyses and reports, a CFO is expected to help set the direction of the organisation's strategy.
1. Build strategic credibility
The biggest step is from reacting to initiating. CFOs sit at the table when decisions are made about acquisitions, market expansion and financing structures. As a Business Controller, you can prepare for this by actively contributing to long-term thinking — not just by delivering the numbers, but by telling the story behind them and putting forward scenarios.
2. Invest in stakeholder management
A CFO communicates daily with supervisory boards, investors, banks and external auditors. This requires a very different communication style from internal reporting. Deliberately seek out engagement with these stakeholders. Present quarterly figures to the board, take part in external conversations. Every experience outside your comfort zone is an investment in your CFO profile.
3. Take ownership of complex change programmes
CFOs lead transformations: from ERP implementations to post-merger integrations. As a Business Controller, you can actively seek these out. Put yourself forward to lead projects that have an impact on the entire finance function. Show that you can not only analyse, but also mobilise.
4. Know your blind spots
Many controllers are strong on detail and precise in their analyses. That is valuable, but a CFO also needs to be able to let go. Learn to delegate, learn to deal with uncertainty and learn to make decisions based on incomplete information. This is perhaps the most challenging personal transition of all.
Blooming Hill guides finance professionals who are ready for the next step — and connects them with organisations looking for exactly that profile. We know our candidates not just from their CVs, but understand who they are and what drives them. That is the foundation of a good match.