The FP&A function has been previously seen as the ‘keeper of the spreadsheets’: building budgets, producing reports and checking that the numbers add up. But the finance function has evolved and technology is enabling FP&A teams to build an active and strategic role in shaping the future of their organisation.
At ICit, we believe this shift begins with mindset. When finance teams adopt a forward-looking approach, supported by the right tools, they become the engine of smarter, faster, data-driven decision-making across the business.
Here’s what that mindset looks like in practice.
From reporting to partnering
The most effective FP&A teams are joining the boardroom conversations, offering critical input that gives the CFO and C-Suite teams insight, not just data – helping to shape and drive business decisions at the most senior level. A true finance partner knows that every number tells a story. Ask why performance looks the way it does, and how the business can respond. The closer FP&A gets to decision-making, the greater its influence.
From measuring to driving impact
Insight is only valuable when it changes outcomes. That’s why modern FP&A teams focus on impact. They can play a significant part in identifying risks early, modelling opportunities and influencing strategy before it’s set in stone. When finance can forecast accurately, challenge assumptions and quantify trade-offs, it becomes a competitive advantage. Tools like Workday Adaptive Planning allow teams to scenario plan in real time, turning data into action.
From curiosity to confidence
Curiosity is the hallmark of great FP&A. Don’t stop at “what happened?” Dig into “why?” and “what next?” This analytical curiosity leads to smarter forecasting, faster adaptation and ultimately, stronger business performance. Finance professionals who stay curious build credibility. They’re presenting figures but they’re also uncovering insight that drives confidence across the business.
The ripple effect of great FP&A
When FP&A teams perform at their best, the impact is felt far beyond finance.
- In sales, finance helps optimise pricing for margin, not just volume.
- In operations, FP&A highlights cost-saving opportunities before they become issues.
- In HR, it guides workforce planning that matches business cycles and growth.
Great FP&A protects AND drives profitability.
Habits that elevate your FP&A game
- Strategic finance teams share common habits:
- They insist on a seat at the table for every major decision.
- They translate complex data into clear business stories.
- They always link analysis back to outcomes that matter: revenue, margin, and growth.
FP&A is becoming the engine of strategic performance and with platforms like Workday Adaptive Planning, finance teams can move beyond manual processes to deliver faster insight and greater agility.
Ready to modernise your firm’s FP&A?
ICit: Your Partner in Building the Modern FP&A Function At ICit, we help finance teams evolve from spreadsheet-heavy reporting to agile, insight-led planning. As a platinum Workday Adaptive Planning partner, we’ve supported hundreds of organisations on their journey to smarter, more strategic FP&A.
If you’re ready to elevate your FP&A function and build a true business partnership, get in touch and make finance the growth engine your organisation needs.
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We hold a range of in person events and live webinars, where we share our planning insights and expertise and demonstrate our partners’ solutions. Take a look at the schedule, see what’s coming up and register to attend an event. See Events
