As a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), your expertise in financial planning and team leadership is what drives a company’s success.
To step into your next executive role, you need a CV that shows why you’re the best candidate. It’s not just about listing qualifications; it’s about demonstrating how you’ve made a real impact.
This guide, complete with expert tips and a Chief Financial Officer CV example, will show you how to create a CV that commands attention and gets you hired.
CFO CV example
How to write your Chief Financial Officer CV
Learn how to create your own interview-winning Chief Financial Officer CV with this simple step-by-step guide.
This guide will walk you through writing a Chief Financial Officer CV that highlights your financial expertise, strategic vision, and leadership skills. By the end, you’ll have a CV that positions you as the ideal candidate for a top-tier executive role.
Chief Financial Officer CV structure
Your CV needs to reflect the precision and strategic thinking you bring to the role of a CFO. Recruiters must quickly see your leadership experience and ability to drive organisational success: don’t challenge them to navigate through your application.
Here’s how to structure your CFO CV:
- Name and contact details – Keep these at the top for immediate reference. A photo is optional.
- CV profile – Provide a concise summary of your executive leadership and career achievements.
- Core skills – Highlight strengths like risk management, financial forecasting, and business strategy.
- Work experience – Detail your roles in reverse chronological order, focusing on financial impact and strategic outcomes.
- Education – Include academic qualifications and certifications relevant to financial leadership.
- Additional info – Optionally, mention professional memberships, major awards, or publications, along with any relevant interests.
Chief Financial Officer CV format
Let’s make sure your CV doesn’t get overlooked. Your CV format must mirror the professionalism and clarity you bring to financial leadership. Even the most impressive content can be undermined by poor formatting.
Remember, a well-organised CV ensures your accomplishments are front and centre, showcasing the clarity and strategic vision you bring as a CFO.
Here’s some tips to format your CFO CV:
- Bullet points – Break down responsibilities and achievements into digestible details.
- Divide sections – Use clear headings to guide recruiters through your CV.
- Use a clean font – Stick to a professional, readable typeface with a consistent layout.
- No more than 2 pages – Ensure concise, focused content that highlights your executive expertise.
Chief Financial Officer CV profile
Your CV profile is your chance to make a strong first impression and set the tone for the rest of your application. You’ll need to hook the recruiter and convince them to read on to the rest of your impressive application.
Chief Financial Officer CV profile examples
Profile 1
Strategic CFO with over a decade of experience in the technology sector, specialising in financial planning, fundraising, and scaling operations. Skilled in managing multimillion-pound budgets, driving cost efficiencies, and building financial models to support strategic decision-making. Proficient in SAP and Power BI for reporting and analysis.
Profile 2
Results-driven CFO with eight years in manufacturing, adept at streamlining operations, reducing costs, and leading M&A activities. Experienced in developing financial strategies that align with business goals and ensuring regulatory compliance. Proficient in Oracle Financials and Tableau for detailed financial reporting.
Profile 3
Dedicated CFO with 15 years of experience in the retail industry, focused on optimising cash flow, managing investor relations, and delivering consistent revenue growth. Skilled in implementing ERP systems and leveraging financial data to support organisational objectives. Experienced in leading large cross-functional teams to achieve results.
What to include in your Chief Financial Officer CV profile
Tailor your profile to the role by emphasising achievements and skills that align with the organisation’s goals.
Here’s what to include in your CFO CV profile:
- Where you’ve worked – Mention industries or organisations you’ve led, along with a mention of how many years.
- Your top qualifications – Highlight degrees like an MBA or certifications such as ACCA or CFA.
- Strategic skills – Include expertise in financial forecasting, risk management, or mergers and acquisitions.
- Team leadership – Reference your experience leading finance teams or cross-departmental initiatives.
- Business impact – Showcase outcomes like revenue growth, cost savings, or improved financial processes. Recruiters appreciate tangible effects.
- Relevant tools you’ve used – Mention any specialist software you’ve needed to employ throughout your career.
Core skills section
The core skills section is where you highlight the abilities that make you a standout CFO. Focus on skills that demonstrate your strategic thinking, financial expertise, and leadership capabilities.
Top skills for your Chief Financial Officer CV
- Financial Planning and Analysis – Driving informed decision-making through accurate forecasting and performance monitoring.
- Strategic Leadership – Aligning financial strategy with organisational goals to achieve sustainable growth.
- Risk Management – Identifying, evaluating, and mitigating financial risks to protect organisational assets.
- Mergers and Acquisitions – Leading due diligence, negotiations, and integration for successful corporate transactions.
- Capital Allocation – Optimising resource distribution to maximise ROI and support business objectives.
- Budget Oversight – Managing multi-million-pound budgets to ensure fiscal responsibility and efficiency.
- Regulatory Compliance – Ensuring adherence to financial laws, standards, and reporting requirements.
- Team Development – Building and mentoring high-performing finance teams.
- Cash Flow Management – Monitoring liquidity to maintain financial stability and fund strategic initiatives.
- Data-Driven Decision Making – Leveraging analytics to provide actionable insights and drive business success.
Work experience
Your work experience section is where you showcase how you’ve applied your expertise as a CFO to achieve measurable results. Seeing as you’re hoping for such a senior role, this section will make up the main bulk of your application.
List your roles in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position.
How to structure jobs
- Outline – Provide an overview of the organisation, your role, and the scope of your financial leadership.
- Responsibilities – Highlight tasks like driving financial strategy, leading mergers, or managing risks. Use action verbs like “spearheaded,” “optimised,” or “streamlined.”
- Achievements – Quantify your impact with metrics such as revenue increases, cost reductions, or improved financial performance. Numbers add legitimacy – use them wherever possible!
Example jobs for Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officer | Blue Solutions
Outline
Led the financial strategy for a growing technology company, focusing on fundraising, cost management, and scaling operations. Collaborated with the executive team to drive long-term growth and profitability.
Responsibilities
- Developed and implemented financial strategies to support business growth.
- Oversaw budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling for business planning.
- Managed relationships with investors and secured £20M in funding rounds.
- Led cross-functional teams to execute cost-saving initiatives and improve efficiency.
- Ensured compliance with financial regulations and standards across operations.
Achievements
- Increased profitability by 25% through targeted cost-reduction measures.
- Secured Series B funding of £15M by delivering compelling financial projections.
- Reduced financial reporting errors by 30% through process optimisation.
CFO | Beale Manufacturing Inc
Outline
Directed financial operations for a multinational manufacturing firm, overseeing a £200M budget. Focused on driving operational efficiency, managing risks, and supporting M&A activities.
Responsibilities
- Developed financial strategies to optimise cash flow and reduce costs.
- Led due diligence and financial integration for two acquisitions worth £50M.
- Implemented robust internal controls to mitigate financial risks.
- Collaborated with operations to identify and execute cost-saving initiatives.
- Prepared financial reports and presented performance updates to the board.
Achievements
- Reduced operational costs by 15% through process improvements and renegotiated contracts.
- Successfully integrated two acquired companies, achieving synergies worth £5M.
- Improved EBITDA margin by 10% through strategic financial planning.
Chief Financial Officer | H&M
Outline
Managed the financial strategy for a national retail chain, ensuring alignment with business goals and operational excellence. Focused on optimising revenue growth, improving cash flow, and strengthening investor relations.
Responsibilities
- Oversaw the preparation of financial reports, forecasts, and budgets for 200+ locations.
- Implemented a new ERP system to improve financial tracking and reporting accuracy.
- Led financial planning and analysis to support expansion initiatives.
- Negotiated with stakeholders, including banks and investors, to secure favourable terms.
- Ensured compliance with all financial regulations and reporting standards.
Achievements
- Increased cash flow by 20% through improved inventory and expense management.
- Streamlined financial processes, reducing monthly reporting time by 25%.
- Secured £10M in funding to support store expansion into new markets.
Education section
The education section highlights the qualifications that underpin your expertise as a CFO. It should be a brief but impactful section, noting your degrees, certifications, and professional development courses.
List qualifications in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
Best qualifications for Chief Financial Officers (CFOs)
- MBA (Master of Business Administration) – Provides advanced training in leadership, strategy, and financial management.
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Certification – Demonstrates expertise in investment analysis and financial planning.
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Qualification – Validates comprehensive financial management skills.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) – Focuses on auditing, tax preparation, and financial reporting.
- Oxford Executive Diploma in Financial Strategy – Enhances strategic financial leadership capabilities.
