Here, in no particular order, is a roundup of 6 a.m. CFO features from 2023 that are as authentic as they are unique.
From different corners of the corporate finance landscape and the globe, this group reveals their character in recounting the first few hours of their day. Sprinkled throughout are vignettes of their life experiences and hobbies, giving us a glimpse into their personalities, motivations, and leadership styles.
1. Anthony Rose, Kapitus
From living by the phrase "no agenda, no attenda" when it comes to morning meetings, to pre-scheduling emails late at night to be sent out early morning, Rose demonstrates his proactive approach to getting things done.
A spin teacher, father, and CFO, Rose's mornings are his time to start the workday at his own pace.
2. Veronika von Heise-Rotenburg, Everphone
Apart from her morning routine tending to her chickens and preparing matcha and cashew milk lattes, the Berlin-based finance leader highlights how she checks emails as early as 2 a.m., has dogs at her company's office, and is working toward a comeback as an ultramarathon runner.
Whether she is baking for her Munich team, helping out with office chores, or in the middle of an intermittent fast, von Heise-Rotenburg’s steps towards a happy and healthy lifestyle have helped her focus the finance team on its accomplishments during times of stress.
3. Mark Smolenski, Medcor
While CFOs love to say they're shooting for growth, Smolenski takes the phrase to the next level.
He talks about why morning walks with his dogs are some of the most cherished parts of his day, how he took up marksmanship, and how his competitive nature led him to train with Navy SEALs and members of Delta Force.
4. Kevin Bueso, Regional Transportation Authority
Formerly the CFO of McHenry County, Illinois, Bueso is now finance chief of the agency that oversees the city of Chicago's suburban commuter rail system. While his mornings consist of strong coffee, his personality is "the most laid-back CFO you will come across," he says.
Bueso highlights how his journey from Honduras, self-made paintings, and photos of his young family throughout his office power his commitment to public service and work-life balance.
5. Jack McCullough, the CFO Leadership Council
Cue the music.
McCullough's signature entrance, usually accompanied by a classic rock hit, is a warming reminder of the humility of CFO Leadership Council events. As a tremendous presenter, leader, and person, his mornings of hard work at the office and the gym are exactly what we'd expect.
And, if you plan on getting a flat tire on your car, do it on the way to meet with McCullough. He'll change it for you at no cost.
6. Jonté Harrell, Zen Ledger
From West Point to CFO of a cryptocurrency tax accounting software platform, Harrell has a work experience few could recreate. His mornings consist of jogs along the Miami boardwalk, prioritizing his day using the Eisenhower-Covey Matrix, and tea — a drink he became fascinated with after living and working in both Hong Kong and London.