Have you noticed your finance team working hard, yet not always aligning their efforts with the business’s short-term and long-term objectives?

Hiring talented people isn’t enough. Effectively communicating business strategies and the bringing people along on the journey is often what’s missing. Strong managers ensure everyone is visible, actively collaborating, and contributing to innovation, rather than working in isolated silos.

Many directors today are juggling more than just skill gaps and digital transformation. The real challenge arises when teams aren’t sharing information or working together. High-performing finance teams become true business partners by connecting, communicating, and participating in broader strategic decisions.

Leaders who encourage a strong team culture, with open communication, routine check-ins, and a genuine sense of teamwork, see better morale, faster problem-solving, and increased creativity driving their organisations forward.

Here’s something worth considering: Success isn’t a set-and-forget deal! Without ongoing efforts to boost collaboration and keep the team connected, even top performers can stall. The most effective leaders keep things moving by updating processes, embracing flexibility, and encouraging innovative ways of working, so their finance teams are ready for whatever comes their way.

Maybe it’s time to rethink the question. Instead of just asking, “How do we hire smarter?” try asking, “How do we help our finance teams step out of the background and become a powerhouse for our business?”

If these ideas resonate, perhaps now is a good time to reflect on your own team’s dynamics and see what’s possible. Taking small, intentional steps, whether reviewing processes, encouraging more open dialogue, or simply rethinking how roles interact can lead to lasting change. If you’re interested in exploring approaches or want to discuss real-world examples, I’d love to chat!