Speaker highlight: Ron Darbouze

Data has become one of the most powerful tools in finance, but truly unlocking its potential requires more than just analytics—it takes a cultural shift. At World Finance Forum Dallas, Ron Darbouze, Director of Finance at CBRE, will share strategies for embedding data-driven decision-making into finance teams, ensuring they drive greater accuracy, agility, and strategic value.

Ahead of his session, we spoke with Ron about the biggest challenges finance leaders face today, the key skills they should focus on, and his approach to leadership in an AI-driven world. Read the full interview for his insights.

Tell us a bit about yourself and how you’ve ended up where you are today.?

I am based in Austin, TX, happily married for 13 years, and a proud father of three beautiful and exhausting children, two daughters and a newborn son. My journey in finance and strategic leadership has been shaped by a passion for solving business problems through data-driven decision-making and operational excellence.

Unlike those who follow a traditional CPA or accounting path, I built my career in corporate finance and FP&A, working with CBRE, Amherst, Merrill Lynch and Invitation Homes. At Invitation Homes, I was part of the team that professionalized the Single-Family Rental industry, leading to the company’s $1.54 billion IPO in 2017 and its $11 billion merger with Starwood Waypoint.

Currently, I serve as a Finance Director at CBRE, where I work within the Global Property Management team, focusing on portfolio analysis, financial planning, and operational efficiency. My experience spans real estate, financial planning, acquisitions, and technology implementation, allowing me to align finance, people, processes, and strategy to drive business success.

Beyond my work, I serve on the Regional Board of the Thrivent Member Network – Texas Region, where I contribute to financial and leadership initiatives. I believe that finance leaders are not just number crunchers but strategic enablers, and I am passionate about helping businesses transform their finance functions to create long-term value.

What’s the biggest challenge finance leaders are facing today?

One of the biggest challenges finance leaders face today is finding and retaining talent that embodies both "old-school" work ethic and "new school" digital skills.

"As AI, automation, and analytics reshape the finance function, leaders must navigate a widening skills gap—where experienced professionals often resist new technology, and younger talent may lack the discipline and accountability that traditional finance roles demand."

The transformation of the workforce, coupled with shifting cultural expectations and increased job mobility, makes it difficult to build resilient, high-performing teams.

While many finance executives focus on economic uncertainty, cost management, and digital transformation, I take a contrarian view—strong leaders can build organizations that solve these challenges organically. The key lies in developing and retaining world-class talent that can adapt to new technologies while maintaining the financial rigor needed for strategic decision-making. By investing in upskilling, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and repositioning finance as a dynamic and strategic career path, leaders can future-proof their teams and create finance organizations that drive long-term business success.

What skills would you like to see finance leaders focus on more?

Finance leaders should focus more on strategic thinking and business acumen, moving beyond traditional financial reporting to deeply understand business operations, market dynamics, and competitive positioning.

"By actively engaging with other functions—such as operations, sales, and marketing—finance can shift from being a cost center to a value driver, identifying opportunities for growth, efficiency, and strategic investment."

Leaders must participate in strategic planning and ensure that finance plays a proactive role in shaping the company’s direction, not just tracking financial performance.

Additionally, communication and storytelling skills are essential. Finance leaders must translate complex financial data into clear, compelling narratives that drive decision-making. Whether communicating with executives, investors, or frontline teams, the ability to connect numbers to business strategy is a critical skill.

Finally, people leadership and talent management should be a top priority. Leaders need to mentor and develop finance teams to think strategically, foster a culture of continuous learning, and build strong cross-functional relationships. As finance evolves, leaders who can develop high-performing, adaptable teams will create the most long-term impact.

How are you developing yourself as a leader, and how important do you think it is to spend time doing that?

I believe that leadership development is most effective when learning is actively applied rather than passively consumed. I focus on continuing education related to my company's operations, my specific business unit, and how finance can provide the most strategic support. Additionally, I seek out speaking, teaching, and mentoring opportunities, as I’ve found that explaining concepts to others not only reinforces my own understanding but also reveals gaps that push me to refine my knowledge. This continuous feedback loop ensures that my learning is both practical and impactful.

I’m also deeply invested in AI and emerging technologies, recognizing that we are in the midst of a transformational event potentially more significant than the Internet revolution.Staying ahead in this space is critical for both personal and professional growth, especially in finance. However, rather than setting aside specific blocks of time for leadership development, I make it a daily habit—whether discussing insights while driving my kids to school or integrating learning into everyday activities.

"Leadership isn’t something to work on occasionally; it’s a mindset of continuous growth and curiosity that should be embedded into everything we do."

If you enjoyed reading this interview, Ron will be sharing actionable strategies for building a data-driven culture in finance at World Finance Forum Dallas. Secure your tickets now and join us for an unforgettable event!