Renuka Nayani, Chief Financial Officer at Fundbox, is inspiring the next generation of finance leaders with her remarkable journey from software developer to a key player in financial leadership.
In a recent interview with CFO, Nayani shared insights from her career, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the importance of seizing opportunities to drive success in the financial sector.
Nayani’s path to becoming CFO was anything but conventional. Starting as a software engineer, she transitioned into finance, fueled by a passion for addressing financial inequities and empowering underserved businesses.
“My experiences early on defined my passion for bringing capital to those who need it most,” Nayani said. Her technical background now informs her strategic approach at Fundbox, a company dedicated to providing accessible financial solutions for small businesses.
Reflecting on her career, Nayani pinpointed a defining moment: accepting roles that pushed her beyond her comfort zone. “I was offered positions I wasn’t sure I was ready for, and I hesitated, fearing failure,” she admitted.
Yet, each challenge became a steppingstone, teaching her to trust her adaptability and seek support when needed. “Don’t count yourself out,” she advises aspiring finance leaders. “Hard work and asking for support will guide you through.”
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As a first-time CFO, Nayani faced hurdles, particularly in communication. “I’m an introverted numbers person by nature,” she said, noting the challenge of conveying complex financial data to diverse audiences, including employees, board members, and investors. Adapting her communication style to inspire confidence among non-finance stakeholders has been a steep but rewarding learning curve.
For those eyeing a CFO role, Nayani offers practical advice: “Getting your first CFO role is probably the hardest, but it’s a gateway to more opportunities.” She encourages professionals to seek roles at smaller organizations where they can gain diverse experiences, even if the position isn’t a long-term fit.
“If your current employer isn’t paving the way, look for a place where you can learn, take on challenges, and build your track record,” she added.
