“CFOs who focus on the vital few — not the trivial many — unlock the strategic capacity to lead change and deliver real impact.”

In this episode of The Business Book Club, we unpack The 80/20 CFO by Janice Berthold and Suzy Taherian — a strategic guide that redefines the modern CFO’s role in driving transformation and sustainable growth. The book challenges finance leaders to move beyond traditional accounting functions and embrace a broader, value-driven perspective that aligns financial strategy with business purpose.

 

We explore how Berthold and Taherian apply the 80/20 principle to corporate finance — helping leaders identify the 20% of efforts that yield 80% of results. The episode highlights key frameworks for improving operational efficiency, managing change, and building influence as a strategic partner to the CEO and wider executive team. It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking to elevate finance from a support function to a catalyst for innovation and organisational success.

 

Whether you’re a CFO, finance leader, or entrepreneur looking to strengthen your financial acumen, this episode distils the book’s most actionable lessons on focus, leadership, and transformation.

Episode 34 - The 80/20 CFO
 By Janice Berthold & Suzy Taherian

A book cover and title page for the book 'Start with Why' by Simon Sinek

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About the Author

Janice Berthold and Suzy Taherian are accomplished finance executives and thought leaders with decades of experience driving transformation across global organisations. Drawing on their work with Fortune 500 companies and high-growth ventures, they co-authored The 80/20 CFO to help financial leaders become true strategic partners in shaping company vision and execution. Together, they provide practical guidance for CFOs who want to streamline priorities, inspire teams, and deliver measurable value.

Two women smiling together, holding a book titled "The 80/20 CFO."

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“A roadmap for the modern CFO — blending strategic insight, leadership, and financial discipline into one transformative framework.”
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