Heading into 2025, a good chief financial officer is crucial to the success of a business, as their role extends far beyond traditional financial oversight. A strong CFO serves as a strategic leader, driving financial health, operational efficiency and long-term growth in an increasingly complex economic landscape. With inflation, regulatory changes, and shifting market dynamics, businesses need a CFO who can anticipate and mitigate risks while optimizing financial performance. That’s why the 2024 CFO of the Year Awards — presented by FEI Arizona — are more important than ever.
Sponsors of the CFO of the Year Awards are JP Morgan Chase Commercial Bank, CBIZ, Keyser, Marsh McLennan Agency and Vaco.
“The challenging part of being a CFO is taking complex things and making them simple,” says Ted Bartlett, vice president of finance and administration chief financial officer for Vermeer Mountain West, who is also a finalist for the CFO of the Year Awards, which are presented each year by FEI Arizona. “Business can be very complicated, but to get people to understand what it is needed, CFOs have to put it in language that is accessible and is manageable for them to to know.”
One of the key functions of a modern CFO is to leverage data analytics and technology to improve decision-making. In 2024, businesses rely heavily on financial data for forecasting, budgeting and strategic planning. A skilled CFO uses advanced tools like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time analytics to gain insights, identify trends and make informed recommendations. By embracing digital transformation, a CFO can ensure the company remains competitive and agile in responding to market changes.
Furthermore, a good CFO contributes to sustainability initiatives by incorporating environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into financial strategies. Investors and stakeholders heading into 2025 are increasingly focused on sustainable practices, and a CFO’s ability to align financial goals with ethical standards enhances the company’s reputation and market value.
Ultimately, a CFO’s leadership in financial strategy, risk management, and technological innovation can make or break a business in 2025. Their ability to balance short-term needs with long-term growth objectives ensures that the company remains resilient, profitable, and poised for success in an ever-evolving economic environment.
Here are the finalists for the 2024 CFO of the Year Awards, which will be presented November 6, 2024, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix. Get tickets here and be sure to check back to azbigmedia.com each day leading up to the event to meet each of the CFO of the Year finalists.
CFO of the Year finalists
Allison Aden, executive vice president and chief financial officer, Cavco Industries
Mark Anderson, chief financial officer, Delta Dental of Arizona
Ted Bartlett, vice president of finance and administration, chief financial officer, Vermeer Mountain West
Craig Jones, chief financial officer, District Medical Group
Jessica Martin, chief financial officer, Nox Group
Maureen Musselman, executive vice president and chief financial officer, Vitalant
Kristine Newman, chief financial officer, McCarthy Holdings
Bill Ostmann, chief financial officer, Diversified Roofing
Edward Podol, chief financial officer, Sonoran University of Health Sciences
Ira Rotenberg, chief financial officer, GO Car Wash
Chad Shindel, executive vice president, chief financial officer and general partner, United Planners Financial Services of America
Max Taylor, chief accounting officer, NexMetro Communities
Freddie Thornton, chief financial officer, MC Companies
Mike Tobin, chief financial officer, AccountabilIT
Sandra Torre, president and chief financial officer, Lavidge
Brent Veach, developer and franchisee , Desert Taco, LLC dba Del Taco
Christine Villa, chief financial officer, Dixxon Flannel Co.
Eric Vogelsberg, chief financial officer, Heritage Academy
Honor all the finalists and network with some of Arizona’s most influential business leaders by getting your CFO of the Year tickets here.
