Do You Have a Numbers Person?

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You have a controller, CFO, or both.  Each requires specialized training and education.  In my experience, the titles distract from the true demands of the job.  What I want is a Numbers Person.

What makes for a Numbers Person?

  1. A broad and deep understanding of the business at the operating level.
  2. In touch with the handful of people who really know the numbers at the operating level that define the complete business model.
  3. Can put simple formats together in numbers form to show how you’re doing in the key success areas that drive the business.
  4. Most important, having the presence, communication skillset, and courage to call out the problems and opportunities, and hold people accountable to tackle them.

Many can reconcile numbers and discuss financial statements, but finding the person described above is much more difficult.  When I’ve discovered a great one and made the changes to get them into the position, my return on time invested has been outstanding.

You’re flying blind if you don’t have a numbers person.

WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING

  • “Chris is intense but laid back.  He’s real.  He sees threads, understand organizational dynamics, and puts things into perspective.”

    — Joane Browne, CEO, Lott Industries
  • “Chris’s ability to simplify complicated issues down to their essence is unmatched.”

    — Randy Jones, CEO, Tireman Auto Centers & World Tire Corp.
  • “With Chris’s guidance, I’ve grown my business and become a better person.”

    — Neal Golding, President & Founder, JellyFish RAS
  • “Chris incorporates both hard and soft skills in his work with senior leaders.”

    — Don Mennell, Chairman, The Mennel Milling Company
  • “Chris has helped me get issues above the table, see past the emotions, and recognize my family team was not as far apart as I thought.”

    — Phil Rupp, President, Rupp Seeds, Inc.