In this conversation, Eric R. Alexander speaks with Kay Lynn McLaughlin about the relationship between the CEO and finance team, drawing on McLaughlin's experience as a lender, controller, CFO, and CEO.

The conversation explores trust, transparency, accountability, disagreements, relationships with auditors and boards, communication within finance teams, the human meaning behind financial numbers, and the importance of protecting time for family.

• The CEO–CFO relationship and the complementary roles of strategic leadership and financial detail.
• Trust, transparency, accountability, and constructive disagreement between CEOs, CFOs, boards, and auditors.
• The importance of communication and relationships for finance professionals and leaders.
• The human side of financial leadership, including the people behind the numbers and the importance of family time.

Kay Lynn McLaughlin began her employment with the Plains Land Bank in March 2010. Ms. McLaughlin holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, as well as a Master of Business Administration degree and a Master of Public Accounting degree, all from West Texas A&M University. She previously served as a Loan Officer, Operations Manager, Controller, and Chief Financial Officer for Plains Land Bank, FLCA. She was promoted to Chief Executive Officer-Elect in March 2021, and has served in the role of Chief Executive Officer since October 2021.

For more about Eric: ericralexander.com; stewardleaderspodcast.com; sixarrowsconsulting.com.

Leadership is temporary. Stewardship is about forever.

To learn about Eric’s new book: Stewardship Leadership for Stinkin' Accountants: Serving as the CFO

See also the LinkedIn newsletter: Musings for Steward Leaders

Intro/outro music: "Fairest" performed and arranged by Eric, based on the hymn "Fairest Lord Jesus" (from a 17th century German hymn and folk tune).