"Think Like a CFO" with Michael van der Ploeg

An international business lead is working smarter with colleagues and stakeholders globally to create an integrated, collaborative operating model focussed on end-to-end business processes.

Michael van de Ploeg has a rare role as both VP of Global Business Services AND Corporate Controller at Amway, which operates in over 80 countries globally, and working with outlier service provider, Consider Solutions (who focus on delivering outcome-driven business performance results, not just reports) has opened his eyes to the skills and habits required to drive stakeholder engagement, common interests and better business outcomes.

The outside-in approach sees Michael and his team talking the language of different stakeholders across the business and defining together  ‘what good looks like’ in their eyes. Also referred to as ‘think like a CFO’ it ensures they are not seen as looking to solve just their own internal GBS issues, but rather focussed on stakeholders and THEIR business problems.

Developing this culture in GBS means a focus on real return on investment, P&L impact, working capital and cash flow. Michael says it keeps us accountable because we will continuously reason in financial terms with the enterprise and between ourselves.

Numerous Amway initiatives have benefitted from this approach, including touchless accounts payable, the end-to-end source to pay process, accelerated supplier credits and refunds, enhanced collaboration with tax and treasury functions, plus a new e-commerce solution, driving P&L and working capital impact as well as time to market.

For Michael, it’s all about trust and the need to focus on ‘table stakes’ internal efficiencies as they drive broader impact with their stakeholders. It demonstrates execution focus, business value and facilitates buy-in.

Ultimately, engaging all stakeholders across the end-to-end process cycles, with their different perspectives, ideas and priorities, enables him to sustain process transformation and achieve value over a longer period.

‘Outside-in’ and ‘think like a CFO’ is about business outcomes, not just internal efficiencies, and it tangibly enhances both stakeholder engagement and customer experience.

You can access the recording of Michael’s 15-minute conversation with Consider Solutions CEO, Dan French,  here.