This is part four of a seven-part series of tips for interim CFO’s at companies in the portfolio’s of private equity groups. These tips are intended for financial professionals who already have the skills and experience to be a successful CFO at a typical mid-market company. They specifically address the differences between being a CFO at a typical mid-market company and being an interim CFO at a growth-oriented mid-market company in the portfolio of private equity group.
Tip#1: Be an ambassador
Tip #2: Be the advance team
Tip #3: Know the exit strategy
Tip #4: Get to know the portfolio
The strategy of a company in the portfolio of a PEG may be related to other companies in the portfolio, so get to know the other companies and their CFO’s. Situations that present a win-win situation for two companies in the same portfolio are particularly advantageous. Do not hesitate to help the other sister-companies when requested or to seek assistance from the other companies when needed. Opportunities range from sharing advice on vendors and customers, or sharing policies and procedures to sharing employees, cooperative marketing or even joint ventures.
Help other employees understand how the portfolio may impact the company’s strategy and how helping the sister companies can help their company and even benefit them personally when their efforts are reciprocated, which they usually are.
The Middle Market CFO 