For finance professionals facing the pressures of a high-stakes field, having a mentor who supports their potential can be incredibly empowering. Mentors not only provide knowledge but also inspire mentees to push beyond their comfort zones, take on difficult projects, and aim for higher positions. This encouragement builds a foundation of confidence that is essential for advancing in the finance world.

Navigating Organisational Politics

The corporate world comes with its own set of complexities, and understanding organisational dynamics is crucial for anyone aspiring to a leadership position. Tendai Mashingaidze, CFO of a technology company in Zimbabwe, notes that her mentor helped her navigate the often-unspoken rules of organisational politics. “My mentor gave me guidance on how to build alliances, communicate with senior leaders, and handle conflicts professionally,” she says. “These skills have been just as important as my technical expertise.”

Mentors can offer valuable insights into the less visible aspects of a career, such as managing relationships with colleagues and superiors. For finance professionals, who must often advocate for budgets, policies, or strategic initiatives, understanding organisational dynamics is essential. By learning how to build influence and manage office politics, mentees can position themselves as effective leaders who can drive change.

Developing a Strategic Mindset

Finance is not just about numbers; it’s also about strategy. Successful CFOs must think strategically, considering how each financial decision aligns with broader business objectives. Mentors often play a key role in helping mentees develop this mindset. Godfrey Ndlovu, CFO of a major retail chain, credits his mentor with teaching him to view finance from a strategic perspective. “My mentor encouraged me to ask questions that go beyond financial metrics,” he says. “He taught me to consider market trends, customer needs, and competitive dynamics in every decision.”

For finance professionals, this strategic approach is essential for making a meaningful impact at the leadership level. Mentorship helps bridge the gap between technical expertise and strategic thinking, enabling finance professionals to become trusted advisors within their organisations. This perspective allows mentees to contribute more effectively to organisational growth, adding value that goes beyond traditional finance roles.

Fostering a Commitment to Lifelong Learning

Mentorship instills a sense of continuous learning, encouraging finance professionals to stay curious and adaptable. For Zimbabwean CFOs, who operate in a dynamic and often challenging economic landscape, this mindset is invaluable. Sarah Dube, CFO at an agricultural company, shares that her mentor’s commitment to learning influenced her own career approach. “My mentor was always learning, whether it was through reading, attending workshops, or networking with other leaders. It inspired me to adopt a similar approach,” she explains.

Lifelong learning is essential in finance, where regulations, technology, and market conditions are constantly evolving. Mentors help instill this commitment by setting an example of ongoing development, demonstrating that learning doesn’t stop at the executive level. For mentees, adopting this approach ensures they remain agile and informed, able to adapt to new challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

Giving Back: The Next Generation of Mentors

Mentorship has a ripple effect, and many Zimbabwean CFOs who have benefited from mentorship feel a strong desire to give back. After receiving valuable guidance from their mentors, these leaders are now mentoring the next generation of finance professionals. Jacob Mandaza, a CFO who benefited from mentorship throughout his career, is now mentoring junior finance professionals. “I believe mentorship is a way of sharing wisdom and helping others avoid the mistakes I made,” he says.

For finance professionals who are now in leadership roles, becoming a mentor allows them to contribute to the growth of the industry. Mentoring others not only strengthens their legacy but also enriches the finance community, ensuring that future leaders are equipped with the skills and insights needed for success. This culture of mentorship creates a supportive network that benefits both mentors and mentees, fostering a collaborative and resilient finance sector.

Conclusion

Mentorship has been a cornerstone of success for many Zimbabwean CFOs, offering guidance, confidence, and strategic insights that have shaped their careers. From building confidence and navigating organisational politics to developing a strategic mindset, mentorship provides finance professionals with the tools they need to excel. For aspiring finance leaders, seeking out mentorship can be a transformative step, opening doors to new opportunities and helping them realise their full potential. As today’s CFOs pass down their knowledge, they pave the way for a new generation of finance professionals to thrive and lead with confidence.