The role of the CFO in a portfolio company—i.e., a company held by a private equity firm—is becoming increasingly strategic and critical to the success of the investment, as well as to ensuring the company achieves its goals with continuity and efficiency.

In this context, the CFO is not merely a financial and administrative officer, but a key partner in value creation.

The CFO must ensure rigorous financial control, transparent reporting, and effective liquidity management. At the same time, their role also involves forming a close, strategic partnership with both the CEO and the institutional investor, with the shared objective of creating real value that supports the company’s goals and aligns with the exit strategy.

Regardless of the portfolio company’s stage in its lifecycle—be it growth, consolidation, or restructuring—the CFO is expected to combine financial expertise, strategic vision, and strong operational execution.

Moreover, the CFO must build a high-performing finance team focused on results and execution speed, while fostering a performance-driven company culture based on KPIs, accountability, and agility.