Overview

A Chief Financial Officer’s (CFO) is responsible for the entire finance and accounting function of a business. They work closely with the company or organization’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Manage the finance, accounting functions, resources and financial assets of the company and subsidiary companies
• Create, implement, administer, and evaluate all financial programs, procedures and supporting information systems of the company
• Provide leadership in the development for the continuous evaluation of short and long-term strategic financial objectives
• Ensure credibility of company finance team by providing timely and accurate analysis of budgets, financial trends and forecasts
• Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive job cost system
• Coordinate changes and improvements in automated financial information systems of the company
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal financial reporting requirements
• Serve as the primary interface with lenders and CPA firm
• Partner with senior management in the development and execution of strategic business and/or operational plans
• Hire and retain key accounting and financing talent
• Act as the point person for all tax and audit activities
• Stay informed about the regulatory environment and developments to the industry / competitive landscape to incorporate best practices throughout the company
• Provide recommendations to strategically enhance financial performance and business opportunities

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting, finance or business administration is preferred. You may also consider earning your CPA (Certified Public Accountant certification). To become a CFO in the agricultural industry, you must also have proven your ability through a generally accepted minimum of five years of related experience and have a strong background in leadership.

To pursue a career as a Chief Financial Officer:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, accounting, business courses, economics, government, and computer courses.

Where can I work?

Chief Financial Officers can work for any small to large company or organization within the agricultural industry.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a CFO will be good over the next five years. 

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• CPA Connect
• American Institute of CPA’s
• National Society of Accountants
• The American Accounting Association
• American Agricultural Economics Association