The C.J. Anderson Co.

The C.J. Anderson Co.

Do You Have a Numbers Person?

By ,

You have a controller, CFO, or both.  Each requires specialized training and education.  In my experience, the titles distract from the true demands of the job.  What I want is a Numbers Person.

What makes for a Numbers Person?

  1. A broad and deep understanding of the business at the operating level.
  2. In touch with the handful of people who really know the numbers at the operating level that define the complete business model.
  3. Can put simple formats together in numbers form to show how you’re doing in the key success areas that drive the business.
  4. Most important, having the presence, communication skillset, and courage to call out the problems and opportunities, and hold people accountable to tackle them.

Many can reconcile numbers and discuss financial statements, but finding the person described above is much more difficult.  When I’ve discovered a great one and made the changes to get them into the position, my return on time invested has been outstanding.

You’re flying blind if you don’t have a numbers person.

WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING

  • “Chris played the pivotal support role to me in our clean exit from an incompatible distribution business.”

    — Drew Milligan, Chairman & Co-Founder, Bionix Development Corporation

  • “We’ve discussed nearly every facet of my company and I’ve gained tangible, actionable items that have improved my management and leadership skills.”

    — Tony Zimmerman, President, Zimmerman Building Company

  • “Chris has helped me grow as a leader and expand my ability to synthesize and communicate board-level messaging and executive-level strategic thinking.”

    — Andy Caputo, CFO, GPRS, Inc.

  • “Chris installed the platform, discipline, and team that transformed The Andersons railcar start-up into the company’s most profitable business.”

    — John Barrett, Chair & CEO, Western & Southern Life Insurance Company
  • “Chris has a unique and compelling way of coaxing me from my fox hole and reorienting me to the bigger picture that’s unfolding.”
    — Rankin Walkup, VP Sales, The McAlear Group