Finance Talent: Establishing FP&A Excellence with Mark
The demand for talent that can implement new finance approaches with a hands-on mentality and a sharp focus on execution, whilst delivering real value, is always high on the Talmix network. We put Mark under the spotlight to understand more about how he works independently and the difference he makes.
Q. When you’re at a networking event, how do you describe your independent career status, and where you focus your work?
I am a 25 year finance veteran who has worked in different countries around the world delivering results for organizations ranging in size and complexity from start-ups to Fortune 500 and PE. Whether M&A, integrations (or divestitures), or daily book keeping, I have done it all and my contributions will change the trajectory of finance operations at any level.
Q. Why do you think there is increasing demand for independent expertise with PE operating teams?
PE is moving at a greater speed today than ever before. A great independent will immediately lift the overall quality of the team and bridge the divide between local management and the PE objectives that would take months to achieve with a direct hire.
Q. Describe a recent or successful assignment in terms of scope, duration and any particular highlights in the outcomes.
In my role as VP Finance, I established the full scope of FP&A for a large-cap portfolio company that had never had a "public company caliber" finance function prior to acquisition. The CFO started the same week I did and the VP Transformation one month later. My 25 years of Finance and Transformation experience allowed them time to assimilate into the leadership team while the company accelerated the momentum around implementing structure and accountability in Finance and the PMO.
Q. What advice would you give to anyone about to embark on an independent career as to how they can provide the best results for a client, while fulfilling their own career path?
Taking on an assignment as an IC is your opportunity to share your many years of broad and diverse experiences with the "boots on the ground" team while remaining laser focused on the goals and timelines of the PE firm.
Are you looking for finance leaders like Mark, with a track record of successful P&L and performance management in complex, matrixed organizations? You can engage with talent like Mark by posting a project now, or by talking to us about how to build up a pool of similar talent in the field.