"Global CFO turnover is surging, and the CFO role is morphing into one of the most complex, high‑stakes jobs in the C‑suite. The 2025 Russell Reynolds Associates (RRA) Global CFO Turnover Index, released this morning, was shared exclusively with CFO Daily. Data from the global leadership advisory firm shows record appointment levels alongside sustained exits, as boards look for finance leaders who can steer transformation, manage external stakeholders, and increasingly serve as potential CEO successors."
"Behind these numbers is a role under mounting pressure. Linda Barham, who leads RRA's U.S. Financial Officers Practice, says the CFO job has become "increasingly complex," with a clear scope expansion. Traditional finance responsibilities now often include enterprise‑wide cost transformation, shared‑services build‑outs, and large‑scale operating model redesigns. At the same time, CFOs face heightened external pressure, with boards expecting them to be front‑line communicators with investors and the Street on strategy, performance, and transformation narratives."
Global CFO appointments reached 316 in 2025, a 10% increase over 2024 and 12% above the long‑term average of 281. The S&P 500 drove hiring with a record 106 CFOs, up 19% from 89 in 2024. Departures remained elevated at 262 exits worldwide, 2% higher than 2024 and 5% above the seven‑year average, but appointments outpaced exits by 54 roles. The CFO role has expanded beyond traditional finance to include enterprise‑wide cost transformation, shared‑services build‑outs, and large‑scale operating‑model redesigns. Boards expect CFOs to lead investor and Street communications and to be potential CEO successors. AI and technology are central search topics, with employers preferring leaders experienced in enterprise‑wide change rather than 'AI‑native' finance chiefs.
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