Organisational change can be challenging not only for finance leaders but for employees across all levels. A resilient workforce is essential for successfully implementing new strategies and adjusting to change. Tatenda Chitsiga, CFO at a leading Zimbabwean telecom company, highlights the role of team resilience in driving transformation. “Change is often uncomfortable, but building a culture of resilience helps our team navigate it more effectively,” she says. “When employees understand that challenges are opportunities for growth, they become more adaptable.”

Tatenda’s experience reflects the importance of communication and transparency in building resilience. By keeping employees informed about the reasons behind changes and involving them in the process, CFOs can foster a supportive environment that encourages engagement and commitment. This approach not only facilitates smoother transitions but also strengthens the organisation’s capacity to handle future challenges.

Leveraging Technology as a Catalyst for Change

Technology has become a central driver of organisational transformation, enabling finance leaders to streamline operations, enhance data analysis, and improve decision-making. Chipo Dube, CFO of a Zimbabwean retail company, has leveraged technology to drive change within her organisation. “Integrating new technology was essential for us to stay competitive,” she explains. “By adopting cloud-based financial systems and data analytics, we’ve been able to make faster, more accurate decisions.”

Chipo’s use of technology demonstrates how digital tools can facilitate efficiency and transparency during periods of change. For finance professionals, understanding and adopting these technologies is increasingly essential, as they can provide the insights needed to make data-driven decisions. By embracing technology, CFOs can guide their organisations in adapting to the demands of a modern, digital-driven market.

Balancing Short-Term Pressures with Long-Term Goals

Organisational change often brings immediate challenges, from budget constraints to resource reallocation. However, effective change management requires CFOs to balance short-term pressures with long-term objectives. Brian Matanda, CFO of a healthcare company in Zimbabwe, describes this as one of the most challenging aspects of his role. “During periods of transformation, we have to make difficult decisions. Sometimes, that means cutting costs in the short term to invest in initiatives that will bring long-term benefits,” he says.

Brian’s experience highlights the importance of strategic prioritisation. By focusing on initiatives that align with the organisation’s vision, finance leaders can ensure that short-term sacrifices contribute to sustainable growth. This requires a clear understanding of organisational priorities and a commitment to making choices that support the broader mission, even when those choices involve immediate trade-offs.

Developing Adaptable Leadership Skills

Adaptability is an essential quality for any finance leader managing organisational change. In an environment where economic conditions and business demands are constantly evolving, CFOs must be prepared to adjust their strategies and respond to new challenges. Rumbi Nkomo, CFO of a Zimbabwean tech firm, stresses the importance of flexible leadership. “Being adaptable means knowing when to pivot and when to stay the course,” she says. “You have to be willing to make changes as circumstances evolve, without losing sight of your goals.”

For Rumbi, adaptability also involves seeking input from a diverse range of stakeholders, from employees to board members. This collaborative approach allows finance leaders to gain insights from different perspectives and make more well-rounded decisions. By cultivating adaptability in their leadership style, CFOs can respond effectively to changing conditions, ensuring their organisations remain resilient and competitive.

Conclusion

The experiences of Zimbabwean CFOs navigating organisational transformation provide valuable lessons for finance professionals everywhere. From visionary planning and technology adoption to resilience building and adaptable leadership, these strategies underscore the multifaceted role of finance leaders in managing change. As Zimbabwe continues to face unique economic challenges, CFOs will play an increasingly critical role in guiding organisations through transformation, creating value, and positioning their companies for future success.