CFOs in 2025: Elevating finance from operational to strategic leadership

The role of the CFO is undergoing a profound transformation, as finance leaders shift from being operational managers to strategic architects driving innovation, influence, and long-term success. Serrala recently commissioned a study conducted by Forrester Consulting exploring this evolution, offering insights into how CFOs can shape the future of finance.?

This research, titled "The Strategic Rise of CFOs: From Finance Leaders to Growth Catalysts", surveyed over 300 senior finance professionals across five countries: the United States, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Respondents represented a diverse range of industries, including technology, manufacturing, and financial services. The findings reveal not only the challenges but also the immense opportunities for CFOs to lead with vision and impact.?

Key trends shaping finance leadership in 2025?

1. Strategic CFOs drive value? CFOs are evolving their roles to enhance organizational trust and credibility. This shift involves more than just managing numbers—it’s about crisis management, fostering resilience, and positioning finance as a key strategic partner. By aligning financial goals with organizational strategies, CFOs are ensuring long-term success and stability.?
2. Technology as a catalyst? AI, data analytics, and real-time insights are no longer optional tools but essential elements of modern finance. Technology enables CFOs to make data-driven decisions proactively, transforming traditional financial operations. These advancements are empowering CFOs to address challenges with agility, improve ROI, and unlock new growth opportunities.?
3. Innovation and influence? Strategic CFOs are driving innovation across business models while strengthening governance to navigate today’s complex business landscape. They are no longer confined to operational roles but are at the forefront of addressing challenges such as economic uncertainty and the demands of digital transformation.?

Timo Engelhardt’s vision for the future of finance?

"2025 is the year for CFOs to redefine their role—not just as stewards of numbers but as architects of strategy,” said Timo Engelhardt, CFO at Serrala. “Forrester’s insights reveal that while finance leaders recognize the power of early involvement, few teams are truly driving transformation. The opportunity is clear: It’s time to lead with vision, influence, and impact.”?

This statement underscores a critical reality for finance teams. While 76% of finance leaders agree that CFOs should play a leading role in corporate strategy, many still face challenges in realizing this potential. For example, only 62% feel skilled enough to utilize emerging technologies effectively, and 60% acknowledge the need for significant cultural and process changes to achieve meaningful transformation.?

The journey to strategic leadership?

The study reveals that CFOs and their teams are prioritizing tools like cloud-based solutions, automation, AI, and RPA to enhance agility and efficiency. In fact, 71% of finance leaders are adopting these technologies to streamline operations, improve ROI, and strengthen their strategic influence. However, 47% of CFOs still view their roles as largely operational or administrative, highlighting a clear gap between aspiration and execution.?

At Serrala , we believe the journey to strategic leadership begins today. By investing in the right tools and fostering a culture of innovation, CFOs can transform their organizations and elevate their influence.?

Ready to transform your organization??

The future of finance is data-driven, technology-enabled, and strategically focused. As we approach 2025, the role of the CFO will only continue to evolve, becoming central to driving growth, innovation, and long-term value creation.?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey toward strategic leadership, discover more insights from Serrala’s study conducted by Forrester Consulting. Let’s advance together shaping the future of finance.?

Download the full research here:? https://lnkd.in/dp-bT6AR?