As Belron undertakes a multi region transition to Oracle Fusion, the finance organisation faces the challenge of maintaining stability while modernising AP across diverse teams, systems, and regulatory environments. In this fireside chat, we'll explore how Belron designed a unified global strategy, decoupled AP from ERP timelines to protect operational continuity, and strengthened visibility and control through centralised data and automation.

Discussion themes include:

• Balancing global standardisation with local autonomy

• Strengthening strategic decision making through centralised invoice data and real time insight into procurement, supplier trends, and process bottlenecks

• Preserving operational stability during a multi year Oracle Fusion migration by decoupling AP automation from ERP rollouts

• Maintaining a unified AP backbone through Basware, providing stability across regional teams and outsourced delivery models during ongoing ERP change

• Navigating evolving European e invoicing mandates with a scalable, proactive compliance model

How advanced analytics and agile planning unlock clarity in an uncertain world

The CFO role has shifted decisively from financial steward to strategic co-pilot of growth. Today’s finance leaders must deliver more with fewer resources, balance permanent uncertainty with long-term value creation, and lead teams through cultural and technological transformation. Drawing on perspectives from Advisory Board members, this panel explores how CFOs are building influence across the C-suite and beyond, developing the leadership skills that matter most, and preparing finance organisations for the next decade.

Discussion themes:

• CFO as co-pilot: Building trust and influence with the CEO, board, and executive peers

• Doing more with less: Leading with credibility under budget, talent, and technology constraints

• Always-on crisis mode: Balancing short-term performance with courageous long-term investments

• CFO as coach: Inspiring teams, modelling behaviours, and embedding growth mindset cultures

• Stakeholder management excellence: Leading across IT, operations, and business units

• Trust and values-driven leadership: Meeting ESG and regulatory expectations while maintaining investor and employee confidence

• Leadership development: Soft skills, resilience, and communication as differentiators for CFOs preparing for CEO-level roles