Developing Business Acumen necessary to become a strategic business partner with Robert Blanding

In this episode of FP&A Unlocked, Paul Barnhurst sits down with Robert Blanding, an experienced finance and operations leader in the ag-tech sector. Robert shares insights on building high-performing FP&A teams, partnering effectively with accounting, developing financial acumen, and applying strategic finance to drive operational impact in global businesses.

Robert Blanding is the Chief Financial Officer at Fall Creek, a global leader in the Ag-Tech sector. He brings extensive experience in finance and operations from 18 years at Intel and leadership roles across industrial manufacturing, technology, and ag-tech companies. Robert combines strategic financial leadership with a focus on innovation, long-term business growth, and developing high-performing teams.

Expect to Learn:

• What great FP&A looks like and the importance of business acumen
• How to develop strong partnerships between FP&A and accounting
• Strategies for building high-performing, empowered finance teams
• Navigating systems, processes, and technology challenges in FP&A

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "It starts with being connected to the business, having strong acumen, and being consulted by stakeholders." – Robert Blanding
• "Investing in relationships outside of crisis is critical to getting support from accounting and operations." – Robert Blanding

Robert shares practical insights for FP&A professionals and aspiring CFOs, emphasizing the importance of business acumen, strong partnerships with accounting, creative problem-solving, and developing high-performing teams.

Follow Robert:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rfb19/

Company Website: https://www.fallcreeknursery.com/

Earn Your CPE Credit

For CPE credit, please go to earmarkcpe.com, listen to the episode, download the app, answer a few questions, and earn your CPE certification. To earn education credits for the FPAC Certificate, take the quiz on earmark and contact Paul Barnhurst for further details.

In Today’s Episode

[00:00] – Trailer

[03:55] – Defining Great FP&A

[07:39] – Career Path & First CFO Role

[17:49] – Fall Creek & Ag-Tech Overview

[21:18] – Importance of FP&A & Accounting Partnership

[32:23] – Creative Problem Solving & Process Improvement

[38:59] – Challenges in Building High-Performing Teams

[45:32] – Advice for Aspiring CFOs

[49:11] – Top Technical Skill for FP&A Professionals

[52:50] – Personal Interests & Basketball

[56:12] – How to Connect with Robert