The 9 Necessary Traits and Characteristics FP&A Professionals Should Have
Carl Seidman, CSP, CPA
Helping finance professionals master FP&A, Excel, data, and CFO advisory services through learning experiences, masterminds, training + community | Adjunct Professor in Data Analytics | Microsoft MVP
There are 9 traits and characteristics FP&A professionals should have. That doesn't even include the technical ones. This is what they are:
1) Exceptional communication skills
FP&A professionals are excellent communicators with financial and non-financial people alike. They're able to interact with a wide range of functions within the business as well as a wide range of different personalities and people.
2) Objective and unbiased
FP&A professionals remain unbiased and are an objective source of information and guidance. It's easy to be swayed by opinion, politics and emotions of others, especially in organizations that are changing, growing, or going through distress and revitalization. But because FP&As deal with much data and many viewpoints, they strive to be objective when necessary.
3) Assertive yet approachable
Strategic finance professionals stand ready to challenge other people's assumptions. It's no secret that some departmental heads will be self-interested -- their bonuses, raises, commissions, and budgetary constraints may all be at risk due to FP&A's recommendations. They may remain steadfast and skeptical at the same time they're challenged. Because FP&A is the heart of the finance team, they're approachable to those who are sharing information or need assistance.
4) Neither overly optimistic or pessimistic
Too much optimism exposes the company to unnecessary risk whereas too much pessimism inhibits the company's ability to take risks and pursue certain opportunities. Strategic finance professionals know how to strike a balance.
5) Well-organized, process-driven +
6) Appetite for problem-solving +
7) Ability to manage multiple projects
Obviously, because FP&A is dealing with lots of information requests, people and analyses, it requires being organized, an ability to manage multiple projects, an appetite for problem solving, and an ability to do so through systematized processes and workflows.
8) Detail-oriented and a big picture thinker
FP&A should be able to dive deep into the analysis and the mechanics of business models, yet understand how they fit into the bigger picture of the strategy. Competent professionals know what level of granularity and macro perspective to seek in different situations.
9) Analytical with a critical mindset
Of course, there's an expectation to be analytical, but FP&A also requires coloring outside the lines. This means being open to improvisation, thinking creatively, and working through ambiguity with a critical mind.
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How can I help you?
As you can see, the role of an FP&A professional requires a unique blend of skills and traits that go beyond technical expertise. By embodying these characteristics, FP&A professionals excel in their roles and contribute significantly to their companies' overall growth and stability. For more FP&A insights, follow me on LinkedIn.
Until next time,
Carl
If you want to go far, go with many.
7 个月Are we overemphasizing the importance of “essential traits” in FP&A professionals while underestimating the impact of adaptability and continuous learning in a rapidly changing financial landscape?
Founder of the Ultimate Financial Modeling Mastery Program.
7 个月I like the "creative thinking" piece. It's helpful to pursue solutions on your own without being instructed by your boss.
Founder at SkillBench I Offshore Staffing Solutions for CFOs, Controllers, Accounting Firms, and Businesses
7 个月Carl Seidman, CSP, CPA In my experience, adaptability is one of the most vital traits for FP&A professionals. The ability to pivot quickly and effectively in response to changing circumstances can make all the difference in delivering accurate and timely insights. I'd be interested to hear what others think—what trait do you believe is the most crucial?"
CEO at Firmbase | Helping FP&A teams plan faster using AI agents | Agentic AI platform for strategic finance | Ex-Facebook/Meta
7 个月Carl Seidman, CSP, CPA because FP&A is a highly strategic role, it requires proficiency in various different skills. I'd say the most effective FP&A leaders we work with are those that can interpret data meaningfully, understand the business landscape deeply, and convey insights persuasively to influence decision-making across the org.