Finance & Business Café S4E2: UEFers uncover the professional pathway to becoming a CFO

The program addressed key questions and clarified the responsibilities of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) in cash-flow risk management, negotiation, and digital transformation strategy—while inspiring participants with practical career roadmaps. A unique highlight of this season was the expanded speaker model, welcoming high school students to share for the first time.

Season 4, Episode 2 broadened opportunities for high school students to take part as speakers

Attending the program were Dr. Hà Thị Thủy – Dean of the Faculty of Finance and Accounting, and Ms. Lê Kim Soa – representative of Trưng Vương High School, along with a large number of students.

The discussion became more dynamic with presentations by speakers representing two academic generations: Nguyễn Hoàng Thanh Mai (UEF student), Đậu Xuân Huấn (UEF student), and Tiêu Trấn Khang (Grade 12 student, Trưng Vương High School).

Faculty representatives presented certificates of appreciation to the speakers

In the main session, the speakers clarified real-world CFO responsibilities in cash-flow risk governance and financial negotiation. The discussion highlighted that CFOs are accountable for addressing short-term payment pressures, responding to cash-flow and exchange-rate fluctuations, and ensuring transparent, timely financial reporting for stakeholders—especially when partners require prompt information.

The speakers analyzed CFO roles and the essential skills required in practice

From a strategic perspective, the speakers also analyzed CFO leadership in solving cost-reduction challenges while sustaining quality and growth, and proposed practical approaches to address this issue. CFOs play a pivotal role when businesses invest in digital transformation, automate finance processes, and adopt emerging technologies such as blockchain.

Tiêu Trấn Khang gained early experience as a speaker and learned finance knowledge at UEF as expected

Concluding the session, the speakers shared their personal roadmap to becoming CFOs and summarized key soft skills—negotiation, digital/IT competency, and sharp critical thinking. The discussion underscored the fundamental differences between CEO and CFO roles and emphasized that CFOs must proactively prevent risks before issues arise.

Students engaged in discussion and Q&A with the speakers

Highlights from “Finance & Business Café” – Season 4, Episode 2

High school students joined as speakers for the first time

Interactive discussion and practical career insights

Q&A helped students clarify their career direction

 

 

 

Overall, the program provided a comprehensive view of the modern CFO—beyond managing money to becoming a strategic leader. It also offered valuable opportunities for both university students and high school students to gain stage experience, develop presentation and critical-thinking skills, and build a strong foundation for participating in future “Finance & Business Café” episodes.

Information and Communications Center