A global study by OneStream highlights the importance of gender diversity in finance leadership. Firms with female CFOs see a 4.5% annualised shareholder return, 0.2% higher than the norm. Women CFOs face longer paths to the role but bring diverse backgrounds, enhancing operational insight and leadership skills. Leadership styles of women CFOs focus on financial governance and strategic planning, aligning with the evolving CFO role that relies on technology like AI and automation.

75% of women finance leaders see automation and AI competencies as vital, yet only 24% use AI tools. 83% acknowledge automation is changing the required skill set for CFOs. Obstacles hindering women’s progression to CFO roles include economic downturns, workplace politics, limited mentorship access, and balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Overcoming these barriers could lead to improved returns and comprehensive expertise in financial management.

Advancing women into CFO roles isn’t just about equity, but also about business performance. Women CFOs outperform industry benchmarks, especially in underperforming organizations, due to their operational experience and digital progress. Women leaders demonstrate endurance in challenges, driving stronger business outcomes and more resilient, modern finance functions.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Women CFOs outperform benchmarks and drive innovation: OneStream