An industrial multinational corporation faced a challenge: its finance leaders, accustomed to traditional compliance roles, needed to evolve into strategic partners capable of driving business growth. To address this, PRB Partners developed a bespoke six-month intervention designed to equip senior finance professionals with the skills and mindset to transition from oversight to proactive enablers of value creation.
The program began with an in-depth organizational diagnostic, involving discussions with key stakeholders, detailed analysis of internal processes, and a review of business-specific challenges. Inputs from functional and industry experts ensured the program was grounded in real-world insights and aligned with the company’s unique context. A combination of workshops, business simulations, and real-time case studies from within the organization created a rich learning environment. Participants explored both successes and failures in engaging with business leaders and gained exposure to innovative approaches such as design thinking for the finance function.
The intervention addressed critical areas, including developing a strategic mindset, enhancing external orientation, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and adopting a business-focused finance approach. Customized business simulations and role-playing exercises provided practical experience in managing stakeholder relationships and translating financial insights into actionable strategies.
The outcomes were significant and measurable. Finance leaders reported increased confidence in engaging with business units and external stakeholders. Several participants led initiatives that optimized cash flow and operational efficiencies, directly contributing to improved profitability. The program also led to a measurable increase in collaborative efforts between finance and business units, fostering a culture of innovation and strategic alignment. These results not only enhanced the organization’s financial performance but also positioned the finance function as a critical driver of business success.