Why Cash Flow Strategy Depends on Hiring the Right CFO
Understanding the difference between operating and strategic finance is critical for business growth and long-term cash flow management—and hiring the right CFO is at the heart of it.
In this insightful podcast episode, Oana Labes, a CPA, MBA, and founder of Financiario, shares her journey from Romania to becoming a leading financial strategist in Canada. With over 15 years of experience in commercial lending and financial leadership, Labes is on a mission to transform how mid-sized companies approach financial strategy—particularly when it comes to managing and forecasting cash flow.
Labes discusses the vital distinction between controllers and CFOs, emphasizing that controllers are typically focused on financial reporting and compliance (operating finance), whereas CFOs engage in strategic finance—offering high-level forecasting, stakeholder communication, and cash flow planning that supports sustainable growth. Misunderstanding these roles can lead to stalled growth, misaligned objectives, and poor capital allocation.
She urges CEOs to ask a pivotal question when hiring: Do you need someone to manage your books, or someone to drive your cash flow strategy? The answer could make or break your financial trajectory.
Key Takeaways for Cash Flow Optimization:
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Cash flow forecasting and strategic planning are core CFO responsibilities that go far beyond compliance.
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CEOs must align business strategy with financial strategy, especially in sourcing and managing capital.
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Strong communication between the CEO and CFO is essential to ensure accurate cash flow visibility and long-term value creation.
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Hiring a CFO with the right level of expertise can dramatically impact your company’s financial performance and growth.
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Economic Value Added (EVA) analysis is a powerful tool for understanding how strategic decisions affect cash flow and wealth creation.
About Oana Labes
Oana Labes is the founder of Financiario, a platform that delivers CFO-level financial intelligence—including real-time cash flow forecasting, automated dashboards, and strategic planning tools—for mid-sized companies. With a track record of scaling businesses from under $1 million to over $20 million in revenue, Labes helps companies bridge the gap between financial operations and strategic leadership.