I am a controller at a non-profit, and will be participating in the interview process for hiring a new CFO - my next boss. I currently have neither the experience or desire for the position, however, I would like to have some input in who is hired. Of particular concern, is how and to what extent the incoming CFO will be able to integrate the sometimes conflicting needs of operations and the accounting department. The accounting department wants to be supportive of operations, and yet at the same time expect them to follow proper procedures, policies, time lines, etc. so accounting can complete its tasks on time and safe guard the company's assets.
What would be approriate questions to ask if I am interviewing my next boss - the CFO?
Answers
My suggestion is to try to connect & build rapport with the person. Try to get a feel for their personality and their background, as this will help you understand and work with them, should they become your future boss. I have been in the position twice where I was able to "interview" by future boss, but unfortunately I didn't really have input into their hiring- i.e. I gave my input, but it wasn't taken seriously. One was an egomaniac (which was obvious in the interview) who had numerous people fired and quit within the first year of her hiring. The other was also not a good fit, and left less than a year after being hired. The new boss will have a huge impact on your life- so take the opportunity to begin building the relationship, even starting in the interview.