Hey there, CFOs! 💼

This week’s lineup is packed with stories that peel back the curtain on the decisions shaping industries today.

From why spreadsheets still dominate finance despite AI’s rise, to Wendy’s surprising new CFO move, and the evolving tug-of-war between cost and sustainability in supply chains, these insights aren’t just headlines—they’re a masterclass in staying ahead of the curve.

Let’s dive in!

📰 Upcoming in this issue

• Spreadsheets vs. AI: Why Excel Still Rules Finance in 2024 📊 

• CFOs and Supply Chains: Can Sustainability Survive the New Normal? 🌱

• Wendy’s New CFO: What a UPS Exec Brings to the Table 🍔

Spreadsheets vs. AI: Why Excel Still Rules Finance in 2024 📊 read the full 1,048-word article here

Article published: November 21, 2024

Despite the AI revolution, 58% of finance leaders are sticking with their old favorite: Microsoft Excel. Rossum’s Document Automation Trends 2025 report reveals this surprising allegiance, even as cybercrime costs skyrocket toward $10.5 trillion annually by 2025.

The reluctance to embrace AI tools is stark—26% of finance departments use no automation tools at all. Why? Cost, complexity, and integration challenges top the list. But the risks of inaction loom large, with cybercriminals deploying AI to forge documents, craft deepfakes, and siphon millions in high-tech heists.

Finance leaders are at a critical juncture. The e-invoicing market is soaring toward $15.5 billion by 2026, and 34% of leaders admit AI will be essential for the future. Yet for now, the spreadsheet’s simplicity and familiarity remain king, proving that old habits die hard—even in the face of innovation.

Key Takeaways:

• 📈 Excel reigns supreme: 58% of finance leaders rely on Excel, despite rising automation tools and growing cybersecurity threats.

• ⚠️ Cybercrime evolves fast: AI-driven fraud, like deepfake scams, cost firms millions; one case involved $25M stolen through fake CFO video calls.

• 💰 Barriers to AI adoption: 32% cite cost and 25% cite complexity as reasons for sticking with manual processes or basic tools like Excel.

• 🔮 Future-ready finance: 34% of finance leaders see AI skills as critical, but only 38% prioritize automation in their digital transformation plans.

CFOs and Supply Chains: Can Sustainability Survive the New Normal? 🌱 read the full 1,123-word article here

Article published: November 21, 2024

With political shifts and economic pressures looming, CFOs are taking on an unexpected role: champions of supply chain sustainability. According to Lindsay Azim, a Gartner sustainability expert, CFOs must now lead the charge in balancing cost management with climate goals—a task easier said than done.

One major hurdle? The awkward alignment between CFOs and chief supply chain officers (CSCOs). Often handed lofty sustainability goals without funding clarity, CSCOs are left scrambling to justify investments. “It’s hard to quantify sustainability value,” says Azim, noting the challenge of tying green initiatives to bottom-line results.

Yet, with ESG regulations tightening worldwide and climate risks escalating, ignoring sustainability is a bigger gamble. As interim 2030 benchmarks approach, CFOs and supply chain leaders must embrace tough conversations, recalibrate unfeasible goals, and focus on aligning sustainability efforts with organizational growth and cost savings. The future of supply chains—and companies—depends on it.

Key Takeaways:

• 💸 CFOs face growing pressure: Sustainability is now a CFO priority, as companies navigate cost constraints and climate regulations.

• 🛠️ Misaligned goals breed tension: CSCOs are often given sustainability targets without funding plans, leading to awkward CFO conversations.

• 🌍 ESG risks can’t be ignored: Climate change and tightening regulations make ESG investments critical for long-term supply chain resilience.

• 📊 The way forward: CFOs and CSCOs must align priorities, link sustainability to growth, and embrace transparency when recalibrating goals.

Wendy’s New CFO: What a UPS Exec Brings to the Table 🍔 read the full article here

Article published: November 27, 2024

Big moves are underway at Wendy’s as the fast-food giant appoints Ken Cook, a seasoned executive from UPS, as its new CFO. Cook will take the reins from Gunther Plosch, who’s retiring after seven transformative years at the company.

Cook’s deep experience in logistics and supply chain strategy could signal a new direction for Wendy’s. Known for leading UPS through complex operational challenges, Cook’s expertise might be just what Wendy’s needs to tackle rising food costs, streamline delivery operations, and optimize global expansion plans.

While Plosch leaves a legacy of operational efficiency and financial discipline, Cook’s hire hints at Wendy’s evolving focus on agility and innovation in a competitive fast-food landscape. With UPS-level precision, Cook’s impact could be felt beyond the numbers, reshaping how Wendy’s serves its Frostys and fries to an ever-demanding customer base.

Key Takeaways:

• 📦 Supply chain savvy: Ken Cook’s UPS background suggests a focus on refining Wendy’s delivery and operational logistics globally.

• 📈 Strategic expertise: As CFO, Cook could play a key role in balancing rising food costs with growth opportunities in new markets.

• 🤝 Leadership transition: Gunther Plosch leaves behind a foundation of financial stability, positioning Wendy’s for Cook’s fresh perspective.

• 🍟 A competitive edge: Cook’s logistics-driven mindset may help Wendy’s tackle supply chain challenges and deliver faster, more efficient service.

Why It Matters

The game is changing fast, and those who adapt will lead the charge.

Whether it’s leveraging AI to outpace cyber risks, redefining sustainability as a business advantage, or unlocking supply chain precision, the lessons here aren’t just trends—they’re your toolkit for thriving in tomorrow’s economy. 🚀

Vanessa Carter
Editor-in-Chief
CFO Executive Insights