In 2009, when I was nominated by the then CFO, Darren Shapland to attend the inaugural CFO Programme, I was unsure of what to expect from the course. However, I am pleased he did – because the programme helped me enormously in preparing for the role and my transition to group CFO in early 2010.

The programme not only provided me with some great insights into the role of a CFO, but also provided me with a terrific network of peers and experts who I could call on to help me if I had any issues.

The programme now has over 270 alumni of whom over 70 (including me) are today CFOs of some of the UK’s largest listed and private companies. This is an innovative and unique programme that is improving the leadership of the UK’s largest corporates.

The programme kicked off with a two day workshop. This featured some great presentations and conversations with some of the most highly respected individuals on FTSE 100 boards and in the City. The content was exceptional and extremely relevant and practical in respect of the role of a FTSE 100 CFO. I had expected to find, on a CFO development course, topics such as tax and treasury – and I did. But it also included sessions on topics such as what investors expect of a CFO and how to deal with them; what kind of relationship you need to have with your CEO and personal impact training and sessions on behavioural styles. And the programme is not simply a two day workshop. There are many learning, developmental and networking events provided for past participants of the programme, which have proven invaluable for me (and two or three members of my senior finance team who have subsequently participated in the programme).

Since taking on the role of CFO in 2010, the knowledge I gained through the CFO Programme has been invaluable. Deloitte has continued to provide me with incredible support, creating a bespoke workshop for my leadership team, tailoring the structure and content of the CFO Programme to meet our specific development needs.