The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a critical member of the executive team, playing a pivotal role in shaping the financial health and overall strategy of an organization. In an increasingly complex global economy, the responsibilities of CFOs have expanded far beyond traditional accounting and financial reporting. They are now central figures in corporate governance, risk management, and strategic planning, often acting as the right hand of the CEO.
A CFO’s expertise in managing financial risks, capital allocation, and economic forecasting is crucial for sustaining profitability and ensuring long-term growth. They are responsible for driving efficiency across all financial operations, from budgeting to investment decisions, while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. In a landscape where technological advancements and globalization are constantly reshaping business environments, the modern CFO must also be adept at leveraging data analytics and digital tools to provide actionable insights.
CFOs are increasingly involved in decision-making processes that extend well beyond finance, influencing areas such as mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructuring, and market expansion. Their role requires a deep understanding of both the external economic landscape and the internal operational dynamics of the company. This dual focus allows them to anticipate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and drive sustainable value creation.
In today’s volatile and competitive market, the CFO’s role is more critical than ever. Companies rely on their financial leaders to navigate uncertainty, optimize resources, and lead initiatives that support both short-term objectives and long-term strategic goals. The following is a list of ten of the most influential CFOs globally, each of whom exemplifies the expertise, leadership, and strategic vision required in this demanding role.
- Amy Hood – Microsoft Corporation Amy Hood has been the CFO of Microsoft since 2013 and has played a key role in the company’s growth, particularly in its transition to cloud computing. Under her financial leadership, Microsoft has seen its revenue and profitability soar, making it one of the most valuable companies in the world. Hood’s strategic focus on cloud services and intelligent edge solutions has positioned Microsoft as a leader in the tech industry. She is known for her deep understanding of technology and her ability to align financial strategies with the company’s broader innovation goals.
- Anat Ashkenazi – Alphabet Anat is an accomplished executive currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google. Before joining Alphabet in July 2024, Ashkenazi spent 23 years at Eli Lilly and Company, a leading pharmaceutical firm, where she rose through the ranks to become CFO in 2021.Ashkenazi was born in Israel and has an educational background in economics and finance, holding a bachelor’s degree from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and an MBA from Tel Aviv University. Her career began in the financial sector in Israel, including a stint at Bank Hapoalim, before she transitioned to Eli Lilly in 2001.During her tenure at Eli Lilly, Ashkenazi played a pivotal role in steering the company’s financial strategies, particularly during a period of significant growth and innovation within the biopharmaceutical industry. Her leadership contributed to Lilly’s status as one of the top-valued companies globally.Her move to Alphabet marks a significant transition from the pharmaceutical industry to the tech sector, where she is expected to leverage her extensive experience in managing financial operations to support Alphabet’s ambitious investments in artificial intelligence and other cutting-edge technologies.
- Luca Maestri – Apple Inc. Luca Maestri has served as the CFO of Apple since 2014. He plays a critical role in managing Apple’s global finance operations, including its vast supply chain and investment strategies. Maestri has overseen the company’s financial operations during a period of unprecedented growth, including the launch of new product lines and services. His approach to capital allocation and shareholder returns has been highly praised, particularly his management of Apple’s cash reserves, which are among the largest in the world.
- Brian Olsavsky – Amazon.com, Inc. Brian Olsavsky became the CFO of Amazon in 2015 after serving in various roles within the company since 2002. He is known for his deep understanding of Amazon’s complex business model and his ability to manage the financial intricacies of its vast operations, including its rapid expansion into cloud computing through Amazon Web Services (AWS). Olsavsky’s focus on long-term growth and investment has been key to Amazon’s continued dominance in the global marketplace.
- Jeremy Barnum – JPMorgan Chase & Co. Jeremy Barnum is the Chief Financial Officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co. and a member of the firm’s Operating Committee.As CFO, Jeremy is responsible for Global Finance and Business Management, the Chief Administrative Office, the Treasury/Chief Investment Office, Control Management and Business Resiliency.Since joining the firm in 1994, Jeremy has held a number of leadership roles including head of Global Research for J.P. Morgan’s Corporate & Investment Bank (CIB), and Chief Financial Officer and Chief of Staff for the Corporate & Investment Bank from 2013 to 2021.
- François-Xavier Roger – Nestlé S.A. François-Xavier Roger has been the CFO of Nestlé since 2015. He has been instrumental in transforming the company’s financial operations to support its strategic goals, including a greater focus on health, nutrition, and wellness products. Roger’s expertise in managing large-scale financial operations and his focus on efficiency and cost control have contributed to Nestlé’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining profitability.
- Harmit Singh – Levi Strauss & Co. Harmit Singh has been the CFO of Levi Strauss since 2013. He has played a pivotal role in the company’s turnaround strategy, focusing on operational efficiency, digital transformation, and global expansion. Singh’s leadership in finance has been critical in repositioning Levi’s brand in a competitive retail environment. His focus on data-driven decision-making and disciplined financial management has enabled Levi Strauss to strengthen its financial position and pursue new growth opportunities.
- Paul Jacobson – General Motors Paul Jacobson joined General Motors as CFO in 2020, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his time as CFO at Delta Air Lines. At GM, Jacobson has been instrumental in steering the company through significant industry changes, including the shift towards electric vehicles and sustainable transportation solutions. His financial stewardship is focused on balancing short-term financial performance with long-term strategic investments, ensuring GM’s competitiveness in a rapidly evolving automotive industry.
- Marshal Fernandes – Suzlon Marshal Fernandes is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Suzlon Energy, specifically overseeing the company’s international business operations. With a robust financial background, Marshal has been instrumental in driving Suzlon’s financial strategy, particularly in the renewable energy sector. His expertise in financial management has earned him recognition, including the title of “Best Renewable Energy Solutions CFO” in 2024 at the Global CFO Excellence Awards.Marshal’s leadership is pivotal in Suzlon’s commitment to sustainability and innovation within the renewable energy space. His role encompasses strategic financial planning, risk management, and ensuring the company’s financial health aligns with its long-term goals in the competitive global market
- Amy Weaver – Salesforce – Amy is responsible for leading Salesforce’s global finance organization.Before her appointment in 2021, Amy was Chief Legal Officer. She built the global legal and corporate affairs organizations at Salesforce and drove many of the company’s most important strategic and operational initiatives, from deepening customer and government relationships to executing complex financial transactions.Before Salesforce, she was EVP and General Counsel at Univar and SVP and Deputy General Counsel at Expedia Group. Amy also practiced law at Cravath, Swaine & Moore and at Perkins Coie. Prior to entering private practice, she served as a legislative aide for the Hong Kong Legislative Council and as a clerk on the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
These CFOs represent some of the most influential financial leaders globally, each playing a critical role in shaping the financial strategies and operational success of their respective organizations. Their expertise and leadership are essential in navigating the complexities of the global economy, ensuring sustainable growth, and driving value for stakeholders.