CFOs are taking on unprecedented responsibilities and evolving into “super CFOs.” In our global study, we surveyed 600 of them to unveil the future of the role and its implications for organizations.

We asked CFOs worldwide where they see the biggest impact today and what they expect next.

Female CEO representation has reached a record high, but progress remains uneven. Lindsay Trout of Egon Zehnder observes that some search committees are placing less emphasis on diversity, with criteria that may unintentionally narrow the candidate pool.

According to a survey by Egon Zehnder, CFOs have seen their responsibilities increase by 82% in the past five years.

CEOs aren't the only ones making moves. A recent report shows that CFOs at large US public companies now average just over three years in their roles, and Egon Zehnder's James Stark attributing some of this to burnout and regular approaches for new opportunities.

More than 80% of finance chiefs say their role has grown significantly in the past five years, according to survey findings published in March by leadership advisory firm Egon Zehnder.

Discover the intricacies of the CFO executive search process and the differences between search and succession planning.

When it comes to executive succession, having support is key. Utilize our succession planning template as a first step, and seek help if you need more support.

Women are making significant strides in the CFO role, with nearly 19% of CFO positions in Fortune 500 and S&P 500 companies held by women in 2023, compared to just 6.3% in 2004. Part of that increase may be due in part to the fact that 82% of CFOs have seen significant shifts in their responsibilities over the past five years, according to an Egon Zehnder survey.