Bowmark hosts inaugural CFO Forum

The event, led by Ben Hollowood of Bowmark’s portfolio management and value creation team, delved into CFOs’ traditional finance and management duties, as well as their responsibilities as strategic decision makers, helping their companies to capitalise on opportunities for growth.

With half of Bowmark company CFOs reporting an expansion in their roles beyond finance over the past two years, Bowmark’s CFO Forum featured workshops on a range of important topics for today’s finance leaders.

The programme included a session on uncovering hidden data assets, enabling finance professionals to extract insights from data that support better decision-making and accelerate growth. The theme of technology was top-of-mind for Bowmark CFOs as they also debated digital transformation, including the adoption of cloud-based solutions that can streamline working practices and, in turn, help attract and retain talent. The workshop was followed by a discussion on managing companies through uncertain and challenging business environments, addressing another concern that most CFOs see on the horizon.

Attendees also heard how to master ESG, with practical insights from Bowmark’s operational team on integrating ESG considerations, including carbon footprinting, into corporate strategy to drive innovation and gain competitive advantage. The agenda concluded with an insight into preparing businesses for exit, aimed at helping CFOs to guide businesses through intense processes. A focus on a data-led culture and always being “exit-ready” were seen as high priorities to maximise value, while ensuring a smooth transition to new ownership.

“Today’s CFO plays a pivotal role in private equity-backed companies, not only overseeing the finance function, but also providing strategic direction on an increasingly broad range of topics, from digital transformation to sustainability,” said Portfolio Director Ben Hollowood. “Bowmark’s inaugural CFO Forum was a fantastic opportunity for finance leaders at our portfolio companies to discuss key issues and understand best practices that can help drive growth and maximise value in a challenging market environment.”

Bowmark will release the full findings of its exclusive CFO Survey in May, alongside further insights from participants at the CFO Forum.