The Shifting Role of the CFO

0:01Mihir Desai:This episode is brought to you by Google Chrome. You think you know a browser, but Gemini and Chrome? That's new. It can help you with practically anything on the web, like restoring a vintage motorcycle from a 50-page restoration block, or finally break down that long article you've had open for weeks. Gemini and Chrome is here for it. Ready to make anything online make sense? There's no place like Chrome. Check responses set up required, compatibility and availability varies 18+. Listen to the heartbeat.

0:28Harmit Singh:Chevy is called the heartbeat of America for a reason. With SUVs made to move with your rhythm. The versatile Equinox tackles your entire day. The spacious Traverse fits your crew and your whole weekend. And Trax brings style with value you can count on. All infused with tech that has your back. So your drive always hits the right chord. Chevrolet. Together let's drive. The CFO's job continues to evolve. Long gone are the days where the CFO was simply responsible for the bottom line. There is too much at stake now, especially where technology is involved. One CFO, Harmut Singh of Levi Strauss & Company, says he's seen that pattern where CEOs fall in love with the latest shiny thing, generally technology, and that the company makes investments that maybe don't fit with their core strategy.

1:21Harmit Singh:His role, he realizes, is that he needs to encourage innovation, but also make sure it is consistent with who the company is, with its strategy, with its culture. It's an example of how the CFO's role is changing, where the CFO is as responsible as anyone else, not only for successful adoption of innovation and technology, but making sure it fits the culture and that there is experimentation in place to make sure you're learning from it before you bet the farm on it. In our latest HBR Executive Agenda newsletter, I talked to Singh, as well as to Harvard Business School professor Mahir Desai, about this and about other ways that the CFO's role is evolving.

2:04Harmit Singh:Subscribe to HBR Executive to learn more.

2:07Mihir Desai:The right window treatments change everything. Your sleep, your privacy, the way every room looks and feels. At Blinds.com, we've spent 30 years making it surprisingly simple to get exactly what your home needs. We've covered over 25 million windows and have 50 ,000 five-star reviews to prove we deliver. Whether you DIY it or want a pro to handle everything from measure to install, we have you covered. Real design professionals. Free samples. Zero pressure. Right now, get up to 45 % off site-wide. Plus, get a free professional measure at Blinds.com. Rules and restrictions apply. Hi, Ryan Reynolds here for Mint Mobile.

2:39Mihir Desai:Are you looking for a beach read this summer? May I suggest your big wireless bill? It's got suspense, mystery, a slightly flat emotional arc, and a shocking twist where you realize you've been overpaying the entire time. Fortunately, though, Mint's story is better. Every plan,$15 a month, even unlimited. That's it. Happy ending. Zero tears. Give it a try at mintmobile.com slash switch. Upfront payment of$45 for three months,$90 for six months, or$180 for 12-month plan required. $15 per month equivalent. Taxes and fees extra. Initial plan term only. Greater than 50 gigabytes may slow when network is busy.

3:07Mihir Desai:See terms. Stitch Fix. Stop shopping. Get styled. A plus on the outfit, Ms. Turner. You are about to slay parent-teacher conferences. Are these? Just the most perfect fitting jeans my stylist sent me. Oh, hello you who didn't set one foot in a mall and still looks amazing. Just share your size, style, and budget, and your stylist sends personalized looks right to your door. Stitch Fix. Get started today at stitchfix.com. To my stylist, this look is dedicated to you. Thank you. Thank you.