Financial executives extend reach into operations, HR

Keeping costs in check, nurturing revenue streams important, says Robert Half

Senior financial professionals continue to spend more time delving into areas outside of traditional finance responsibilities, such as human resources, according to a survey from Robert Half Management Resources.

More than one-quarter (27 per cent) of 1,400 chief financial officers in the United States said they have become more involved in company operations over the past three years.

When asked, "Which one of the following areas outside of traditional accounting and finance responsibilities, if any, has your role expanded into most over the past three years?” they responded:

•Operations (27 per cent)
•Human resources (19 per cent)
•Marketing (17 per cent)
•Information technology (15 per cent)
•Sales or business development (six per cent)
•No role change (15 per cent)

"Financial leaders are becoming more involved in all aspects of company operations, often to ensure greater financial controls across the enterprise and offer input on pricing, cost-cutting and business restructuring," said Paul McDonald, senior executive director of Robert Half Management Resources. "Keeping costs in check and nurturing revenue streams are more important than ever in today's business climate."

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