Top five challenges facing CFOs
In 2025, the role of the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is more demanding than ever. As businesses navigate a landscape shaped by rapid technological advancement, economic uncertainty, and evolving stakeholder expectations, CFOs are expected to be more than financial stewards – they must be strategic leaders, digital innovators, and change agents. Here are the top five challenges CFOs are facing this year.
1. Harnessing AI and advanced analytics
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are now embedded in the finance function, transforming everything from forecasting and reporting to risk management and decision-making. CFOs are under pressure to lead the adoption of AI tools that deliver real-time insights and automate routine processes.
The challenge lies in ensuring these technologies are implemented responsibly and strategically. CFOs must oversee data governance, ensure compliance with evolving regulations, and build trust in AI-driven outputs. They also need to upskill their teams to interpret and act on complex data, bridging the gap between finance and data science.
2. Talent transformation and workforce strategy
The finance workforce is evolving rapidly. Traditional accounting skills are no longer enough – today’s teams need expertise in data analytics, ESG reporting, digital tools, and strategic thinking. CFOs must lead efforts to reskill existing staff and attract new talent with hybrid capabilities.
In a world where hybrid work is the norm, CFOs also face challenges in team cohesion, performance management, and employee wellbeing. Building a culture of agility, inclusion, and continuous learning is essential to future-proof the finance function.
3. Driving sustainable growth amid economic uncertainty
Despite signs of recovery in some markets, CFOs continue to navigate inflation, supply chain disruption, and geopolitical instability. Growth remains a top priority, but it must be sustainable and risk aware.
CFOs are expected to identify new revenue streams, support digital transformation, and guide mergers and acquisitions – all while maintaining financial discipline. This requires a careful balance between agility and control, and a deep understanding of both external trends and internal performance.
4. Meeting ESG and regulatory expectations
Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting is now a core responsibility for CFOs. With new regulations such as the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and growing investor scrutiny, finance leaders must ensure ESG data is accurate, auditable, and aligned with financial reporting.
This means building robust reporting frameworks, collaborating across departments, and embedding sustainability into financial planning and risk management. CFOs must also stay ahead of evolving standards and stakeholder expectations.
5. Cybersecurity and risk management
As finance becomes increasingly digital, the risk of cyber threats continues to grow. CFOs are now central to managing cyber risk, working closely with IT and risk teams to protect financial systems, customer data, and intellectual property.
From ransomware attacks to third-party vulnerabilities, the financial and reputational stakes are high. CFOs must ensure cybersecurity is prioritised in budgets, that incident response plans are in place, and that risk is embedded into every financial decision.
How Brewer Morris can help you find your next CFO
At Brewer Morris we have a proven record of executive search success and a reputation for integrity. We provide executive search services to a vast range of companies in every sector, including major accountancy firms, multinational companies, financial services businesses, and global investment banks.
If you are looking for your next CFO, please do not hesitate to submit a brief and a member of our team will be in touch.
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