In today’s volatile global landscape, the role of the Chief Financial Officer is undergoing a profound transformation.

Once seen primarily as a financial steward, the modern CFO is now at the heart of strategic decision-making, digital transformation, investor relations, and organisational leadership.

At Eton Bridge Partners, we’ve had a front-row seat to this shift. Each year, through our CFO Pathways Report, we delve into the real data behind CFO appointments across the world to better understand how and why finance leaders rise.

This year’s CFO Pathways Report 2025 offers our most comprehensive analysis to date – covering 6,400 CFO appointments across 10 major global markets.

So, what did we find?

Key trends from this year’s report:

Internal promotion is back in vogue

In markets like the UK, US, and Australia, we saw a renewed emphasis on developing and appointing CFOs from within a sign of maturing leadership pipelines and boards prioritising cultural continuity.

Diversity is on the agenda (but is one of many factors)

Boardrooms are placing a growing emphasis on building diverse leadership teams. That focus is starting to show; in 2024, 26% of global CFO appointments were female, with China leading at 30%. But along with diversity, boards also still need track records – particularly in funding rounds, exits, M&A, and complex transformations. Diversity is no longer an afterthought, but experience is still paramount.

Private equity continues to set the tone

In the UK, US, Germany, and Sweden, PE-backed businesses are driving significant CFO demand and looking for commercially sharp, execution-focused leaders with funding and exit experience.

Sector experience remains key, but isn’t everything

While most hires come from within the same industry, those who can clearly articulate how their skills translate across sectors are increasingly standing out.

First-time CFOs are making gains, selectively

It’s not yet a wave, but boards are more open to exceptional first-timers, particularly in high-growth or transformation environments. That said, the bar remains high.

Why this matters:

For aspiring CFOs, this report offers clarity on what boards are looking for, and where the opportunities lie.

For businesses planning their next hire, it provides critical benchmarks across age, sector, gender, and ownership models.

And for investors and advisors, it gives a window into how leadership is evolving in the context of PE, digitalisation, and global market shifts.

Whether you’re plotting your next move or hiring the next finance leader, this report is designed to help you make informed, forward-looking decisions.

Wherever you are on your CFO journey, please do get in touch, we’d love to talk.

Find out more about our specialist Finance practice.  

Download the latest CFO Pathways Report 

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