Why Most Financial Models Fail for FP&A Pros to Build Business-Aligned Models with Maria Zlobina

In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Maria Zlobina, a finance professional with over a decade of experience in Big Four audit, FP&A, and business partnering roles across the US, Australia, and Russia. The conversation explores the importance of understanding the purpose behind financial models, the challenges of inheriting others’ models, and the value of continual learning in finance. Maria also shares insights into the Advanced Financial Modeler certification, her passion for efficiency, and her experience navigating the world of financial modeling.

Maria, who has a rich background in financial modeling, discusses her journey in the finance industry, her love for continuous learning, and her adventures living in different countries. She offers practical advice for modelers and professionals, including tips on making financial models dynamic, understanding the business context, and utilizing the right tools like Power BI and XLOOKUP. Maria also touches on her passion for languages and learning, sharing how her diverse experiences contribute to her success as a financial modeler.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial models are critical for decision-making and how to avoid common pitfalls
• The importance of understanding the context and objectives behind a model
• Tips for inheriting and improving existing financial models
• The benefits of continuous learning, both professionally and personally
• Insights on dynamic financial models and best practices for forecasting

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• "The magic of financial modeling isn’t in the model itself, but in how it helps guide decisions." - Maria Zlobina
• "It’s not about creating the perfect model, but the model that gives the best insight for decision-makers." - Maria Zlobina
• "The best financial models don’t just answer one question; they provide a range of answers." - Maria Zlobina

In this insightful episode, Maria Zlobina emphasizes the importance of dynamic financial models and understanding the business context behind them. She highlights the value of continuous learning and staying curious to improve as a financial modeler. With practical advice on overcoming challenges in modeling and working with stakeholders, Maria reminds us that great models support better decision-making.

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In today’s episode:

[01:13] - Introduction to the Episode

[03:52] - Worst Financial Model

[06:37] - The value of continuous learning

[10:24] - That One Defining Moment

[13:09] - From Curiosity to Certification

[17:49] - Starting with the Goal in Modeling

[25:17] - Transparency in Modeling

[31:07] - XLOOKUP Time Saver

[34:24] - Rapid-fire questions

[38:16] - AI and Tools in Modeling

[43:56] - Final thoughts on modeling