The Role of the Finance Function
The finance function plays an important role in the operation of a business. Its primary purpose is to manage the financial resources of an organization in order to produce profit and to support other business functions. These processes include acquiring, managing, and spending funds on a variety of assets. Managing these resources effectively is vital to the long-term success of a business.
In order to be successful in this role, the finance function must align with the organization’s strategy and act as an integral partner in that strategy. It must also develop new capabilities, such as new digital technologies, and be able to evaluate investments through a strategic lens. It must also have a clear view of the capital markets and be able to communicate a compelling story about value creation. In addition, it must build a culture of performance.
The finance function must also handle tax deductions and manage pension funds. It must also process payroll and associated benefits, which should be completed in time to meet regulatory requirements. In short, it is essential that the finance function can be the hub of all business operations. It can also play a key role in the strategic planning of the business.
Data is vital for making decisions. The finance function prepares financial data that can help business owners analyze the present and project the future. Without these data, a business cannot make sound decisions. The finance function is a critical business partner and is essential to the overall success of a business. Its expertise in these areas is critical in keeping the business running smoothly.
While financial analysis is a critical part of the finance function, leaders can guide finance staff in their work by setting guidelines that drive actual business performance. The aim of finance staff is to focus 80 percent of their time on analytical activities that directly impact actual business performance. In this way, they can improve efficiency by introducing efficiencies throughout the business.
The finance function can help businesses achieve better strategic outcomes and improve the bottom line. For example, a senior finance professional can assist in mergers and acquisitions, oversee foreign expansion, and navigate complex regulatory frameworks. They also have the experience to spot potential pitfalls. Alternatively, a junior finance professional can help a business through financial planning and analysis. This type of expertise can help businesses grow and gain market share.
The finance department also advises on the optimal financing mix for a company. It can help a company obtain longer-term financing at the lowest cost. It can also help a company raise capital through share issues to private investors. If a company has excess cash, the finance department can identify this and help it find ways to use it. This way, it can grow faster. They can also ensure that the business can pay its suppliers and employees on time.
The finance function needs to be able to identify and marshal high-quality, trustworthy data for analytics and business decision-making. This will ensure that financial processes are efficient and provide added value.
