A first CFO role in Australia is a step in scope rather than title: you take on the board relationship, the investor narrative and the strategic calls, often while building the team underneath you. Where the CFO is also a director, statutory duties attach personally.
The step from finance leader to CFO
Moving into a first CFO role is as much about scope and influence as title. You take on the board relationship, the investor narrative and the strategic calls, often while still building the team underneath you. Where the CFO is also appointed a director or company secretary, that scope carries statutory duties that sit with the person rather than the role, which ASIC sets out in its obligations of company officeholders. Our job is to find you the business and the founder where the move sets you up to succeed, and our 2026 first CFO salary guide shows what the step is paying across tech, fintech and deeptech. Tom interviews people who have already made it every week on The CFO Track.
We help you navigate
- Stepping into a leadership mandate with real board and investor exposure
- Managing a growing team while still close to the detail
- Operating in fast-moving, evolving businesses without losing control
- Whether the role supports both your development and your long-term progression
Common questions
Do you work with finance managers stepping up to CFO?
Yes. We regularly partner with middle and senior finance leaders navigating the move into a first CFO or equivalent leadership mandate.
Can you help me assess whether a move is right for me?
Yes. We talk through the business, the founder and the scope honestly so you can decide whether the step up genuinely fits your goals.
What if I am not ready to move yet?
That is fine. We are happy to have an early conversation and keep in touch, so you are ready when the right first CFO role appears.