Andy Woo, MBA

Leaders have started increasing their investments in team retreats to build a strong culture, a strong sense of belonging, increase employee engagement. YES – can’t underestimate the value in making these investments on a regular basis, especially for dispersed teams. Building a STRONG CULTURE is not enough – it is imperative to make it the OPTIMAL CULTURE to drive the behaviors and actions your teams take when you are not looking. Complement team retreats with the following ACTIONS. 1️⃣   Define the OPTIMAL CULTURE for your organization. 2️⃣   Roll out ongoing cultural TRAINING for your team. 3️⃣   Incorporate culture into your TALENT LIFECYCLE activities. https://lnkd.in/gURvMNCY

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🚀 New to Leadership? Here’s How to Avoid Micromanaging🚀 Nobody wants to be a micromanager, but when you’re new to leading a team, it’s a trap that’s easy to fall into. The pressure to prove yourself to your direct reports while delivering strong outcomes can sometimes result in an overly hands-on leadership style. Here are three reflection questions to help you identify and stop micromanaging behavior: 1. Are you always giving your team “advice”? If you constantly propose solutions and action items for your team, you might be verging on micromanagement. Encourage your team to develop their own solutions by asking open-ended questions and listening to their ideas. 2. Do you need to approve every decision your team members make? Bottlenecking is a form of micromanagement. Audit your approval processes and delegate lower-stakes tasks to build trust and empower your team to work autonomously. 3. Do you consider feedback a one-way street? Make feedback a two-way conversation. Recognize strengths, seek opinions, and treat mistakes as learning opportunities. This approach builds trust and fosters a supportive environment. As a new leader, control doesn’t equate to success. Use these questions to check yourself and build a better approach as you develop your leadership style. 🌟 #Leadership #TeamManagement #NewLeader #AvoidMicromanagement #EmpowerYourTeam

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Ever Wondered What Makes Some Emerging CPG Brands Succeed and Others Fail? 🚨 Spoiler alert: It’s not always about the secret sauce or the flashy packaging. Often, it boils down to something that doesn’t get as much limelight but is crucial—strategic financial modeling. At Balanced Business Group, we're passionate about the nuts and bolts of financial forecasting that helps food and beverage brands thrive. Why is strategic financial modeling a game-changer? 🚦 Clearer Path: It transforms your big ideas and ‘what-ifs’ into a clear roadmap filled with actionable steps. 🤓 Smarter Decisions: Ever faced a tough decision and wished you had a crystal ball? Well, a solid financial model is pretty close, giving you the insights to choose wisely. 👩‍💻 Investor Magnet: Show potential investors you’re not just playing shop but are serious about your business growth. A sharp financial model does just that. 📉 Ready for Anything: Whether it’s a sudden trend or an economic dip, your financial model keeps you two steps ahead, ready to pivot without panic. Here’s the bottom line: Winning in the food industry is as much about strategy and planning as it is about taste and trends. And while we can't help with your recipes, we can definitely make sure your financial planning is on point. Check out our blog post for more details. The link is in the comments.

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What an incredible couple days at The Beverage Forum! It was a privilege to hear from industry giants like Gavin Hattersley; game changing retailers (Tom Brennan of Casey's, Jesus Delgado-Jenkins of 7-Eleven, and Phil Markert of Albertsons Companies to name just a few); and inspiring brands like BeatBox, poppi, The Equitea Co., and so many more. There were a few recurring insights across the panels that resonated with what I've seen launching a new beer brand: 1. The importance of authenticity. This has to go beyond just the brand message and must be reflected in how the brand shows up at retail, how it makes its product, and how it speaks to consumers, regardless of channel. 2. The need to meet your consumers where they are. We're all busy, and convenience is key. If it's too hard to get a product (it's chronically out of stock, it's not in the expected channels, the packaging makes consumption too hard), fans, no matter how rabid, will opt for substitutes. 3. The increasing pace of innovation. Consumers are demanding variety and retailers are shifting their models to provide that. New brands have ever smaller windows to prove they have a right to stay. 4. Packaging is paramount! We learned this the hard way at EIGHT Brewing Co. As a new brand, your packaging has to work hard at retail - not only invoking the brand, but communicating your value proposition to potential consumers quicky and effectively. Thanks to the entire LA Libations team for putting on such a great event. I'm already looking forward to next year! In the meantime, here's Robert Downey Jr., co-founder of happy™, commenting on the mind-blowing competitiveness of the beverage industry.

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In the current inflationary environment, where costs continue to increase, Zuora has decreased our overall audit fees by 7% by working closely with our auditors to gain efficiencies. The efficiencies are possible because of Zuora Revenue. Not only have we decreased audit fees, but I’m able to be more agile in supporting the needs of the business. Learn more about how our upgraded Zuora Revenue implementation streamlined our operations: https://lnkd.in/esRbnv89

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Navigating the impacts of Implementing a New ERP System I'm excited to share a recent accomplishment that has been a game-changer for our company. I led the implementation of a new ERP system, transitioning from QuickBooks Online to a more robust solution. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding, significantly transforming our finance and purchasing operations. Positive Impacts on the Implementation: Enhanced Financial Management: Now, we have advanced financial reporting and analytics at our fingertips, helping us make better decisions. Streamlined Purchasing: Our purchasing process is more efficient, with better visibility and control, leading to cost savings and improved vendor relationships. Improved Compliance: The new system has strengthened our compliance with regulations and internal policies, reducing risks and ensuring accuracy. Operational Efficiency: Automating routine tasks has freed up our team to focus on strategic initiatives and innovation. Scalability: The ERP is scalable, making it easier for us to grow and adapt to changing market demands. This experience has not only enhanced my knowledge in ERP systems but also sharpened my project management, problem-solving, and leadership skills. I'm excited about the future and how I can continue leveraging technology to drive business success. #ERP #DigitalTransformation #ProjectManagement #Finance #Purchasing #Leadership #ChangeManagement

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The Fractional CFO Power Skills Mastermind course exceeded my expectations and is a Maven Top 100 Course.  Carl Seidman, CSP, CPA and Amy Vetter, CPA, CSP, CGMA, RYT provided a wealth of knowledge and insights that deeply enhanced my understanding of the Fractional CFO role. The course covered all aspects of starting or growing a Fractional CFO / Client Accounting and Advisory (CAS) business from personal branding and pricing to technology and client experience. Key Highlights: - Positioning and Specialization: Building expertise and strong personal brand. - Finance Technology: Leveraging the latest tools and technologies in finance. - Client Management: Handling client relationships and managing personalities. - Dynamic Data Management: Techniques for managing and presenting dynamic financial data. - Strategic Financial Mapping: Creating financial strategies and tracking key performance indicators. - Marketing and Pricing: Effective strategies for marketing and pricing your services. - Cherished Advisor Journey: Improve your communication skills and learn the journey to becoming a cherished advisor. The interactive and engaging format, with breakout sessions and active involvement, ensured practical knowledge and meaningful conversations. The experiences shared by Carl and Amy were invaluable. This course is perfect for aspiring Fractional CFOs, CAS professionals, CPAs, and FP&A advisors or those looking to improve their existing fractional advisory practice. I highly recommend it for its comprehensive and practical approach to building a successful business. As a Maven Top 100 Course, it is offering a 25% discount (ends Sunday June 9th). Use the code MAVEN100 at checkout. The next cohort kicks off on July 15th!  Don’t miss this incredible opportunity. Check out the course: The Fractional CFO Power Skills Mastermind by Carl Seidman, CSP, CPA and Amy Vetter, CPA, CSP, CGMA, RYT, at Maven #ProfessionalDevelopment #FractionalCFO #CAS #Consulting #Leadership #CPA #CFO #Maven

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Throughout a family business's early years, most families pour all of the energy and financial resources into the business to establish it. Once established, however, how do you diversify your family's assets to make your family more resilient to ever changing environments? Join CSUF Center for Family Business on June 25th as Dana Telford leads a panel exploring how to transform your family business into a family enterprise. Registration information in the first comment below

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4 key takeaways of how Navarro Culinary Connections aka Ian Navarro has skyrocketed his recognizability and gained *even more* credibility over the last 8 months -- And why you won't be able to escape me now either ;) We do things different. We do things the NEW or RIGHT way for our brand and our clients! Old way: - Bloated org website - Over-invest in visual branding - Build slow team consensus on what stories to tell and how - Spend months working with web agency to design and launch campaigns NEW way aka the RIGHT way: - Publish stories, articles, posts, and show process publicly...constantly. - Your brand is seen & felt through stories of impact - Built-in team expectations around looser agile storytelling, looser editorial control - Develop a storytelling TOOLKIT instead of looking to an agency for fancy assets that never get used. Authenticity > Polish

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5 Ways CFOs Can Transform Finance Operations

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We're witnessing the democratization of high-quality cocktails. Is this even a hot take?🔥 The surge in RTD cocktails and "Beyond Beer" beverages isn't just about convenience or flavor variety—it's a strategic response to a seismic shift in drinking culture. Younger consumers are redefining what it means to enjoy a drink, prioritizing premium experiences without the hassle. This trend pressures traditional beer and spirits brands to innovate or risk obsolescence. Brands must evolve rapidly or be left behind in a market that craves instant, yet sophisticated, gratification. Are you ready for the future of drinking? #Innovation #BeverageIndustry #RTDCocktails #GenZ #Millennials #MarketTrends

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I am re-reading Radical Candor as we are studying this book with my team, and Kim Scott mentioned a great HBR article about getting the best employees ideas, and how small ideas can add up to a huge competitive advantage: https://lnkd.in/gNxYJEXM. Here are some key takeaways: - Business leaders are always looking for the next breakthrough idea—the home run that will put them well ahead of the competition with one swing. Because of this, the systems and policies they put in place are aimed at big ideas. Few managers realize how severely limiting this is. In many important aspects of business—customer service, responsiveness, quality, and managing costs—you just can’t achieve excellence without getting the little things right. - What’s more, most small ideas stay proprietary, whereas big ones don’t. Big ideas are very visible to your competitors and are often countered or copied relatively easily. Because there’s no natural way for competitors to find out about them, small ideas can add up to a huge competitive advantage. - The right approach to generating ideas from your employees creates a virtuous circle. Employees become more engaged when they see their ideas being used. And managers, seeing the impact of employees’ ideas, give employees more authority— which leads to more and better ideas. - Learn to appreciate the power of small ideas. - What are some of the characteristics of an effective idea system? Ideas are actively encouraged—from all quarters. Submitting ideas is simple, and the evaluation of suggestions is quick and effective. Pushing decision making down to the front lines for as many ideas as possible leads to better decisions, faster implementation, and lower processing costs; it also frees up managers’ time. - Most employees have lots of ideas and would be thrilled to see them used. They take pride in contributing to the organization’s success. So the most effective form of idea recognition is to implement the ideas rapidly and to give credit to the employees involved. #innovation #petfoodindustry #bsmpartners #thoughtleadership

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Leaders, it’s time to embrace the power of asking questions. Instead of assuming we have all the answers, let’s openly seek input and collaborate with our teams. This approach builds trust, fosters innovation, and leads to better solutions. Expressing vulnerability isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength that connects us and drives progress. Let’s lead with curiosity and openness. #Leadership #Collaboration #Innovation

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Interesting article. I was an early adopter and continue as a strong advocate of directing payroll spend towards team members who exhibit problem-solving abilities while leveraging automation for routine tasks. Check out more insights on CFOs' enthusiasm for automation here: https://lnkd.in/eaJXmbNA

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Abraham Lincoln's timeless quote encapsulates a profound truth that resonates deeply with professionals (By the way, Lincoln has quotes for days!). Adversity, in various forms, is something we are accustomed to navigating in our roles. - Whether it's market volatility, economic downturns, or complex financial challenges, we demonstrate resilience and fortitude in the face of adversity. However, the real measure of our character emerges when we are entrusted with power. – When we hold the responsibility to make critical decisions that impact not only ourselves, but also our organizations, clients, and stakeholders. We often find ourselves in positions of authority, with the ability to influence financial outcomes and shape the direction of our organizations. This power comes with immense responsibility and requires a steadfast commitment to integrity, ethics, and moral principles. Lincoln's quote serves as a poignant reminder that power has the potential to reveal our true character – Whether we use it for the greater good or succumb to the temptations of self-interest and ego. It challenges us to introspect and evaluate our actions, ensuring that we wield power with humility, compassion, and a sense of duty to serve the best interests of those we impact. - In today's fast-paced and competitive business environment, where the allure of power and success can sometimes cloud judgment, Lincoln's words offer timeless wisdom. They encourage us to remain grounded in our values, guided by a sense of purpose beyond personal gain. By embracing the responsibility of power with integrity and ethical conduct we not only uphold the trust and confidence of our stakeholders, but also contribute to building a more equitable, transparent, and sustainable financial ecosystem. #leadership #AbrahamLincoln

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There’s something powerful in retreat. Symetra offers fully remote work, and no shortage of variety in our roles. That means we’re all working on different things, at different times, in different places. We try to get together periodically at HQ near Seattle. Last week, I joined the investment accounting team in an experiment. Our hypothesis: shared experiences create stronger bonds and improve collaboration. Our method: get everyone off their home turf and into something new. It worked. We spent 3 days learning, exploring, and eating together in New Orleans. Away from the ties of daily routines, everyone was free to spend focused time together. I watched relationships take root and grow. Conversations flowed from families and hobbies to industry and company strategy. Barriers were broken down, and I got candid, invaluable feedback and insight into the team, their capabilities, and their work. These outcomes were worth every penny (and, by choosing a lower-cost location, it actually fit into the typical budget). Our conclusion: never underestimate the power of retreat… it may just lead to victory. PS - Don’t sleep on the importance of a skilled retreat planner either. Raegan Wright clearly understood the assignment!

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- What is Tastry? 🍷 Tastry is an AI-powered virtual focus group that provides real-time visibility on the evolving consumer preferences across the U.S. We help wineries optimize production and increase sales using AI. - How does the partnership with Republic National Distributing Company work? 🤝 Wines are promoted in real time as buyers search for new products or replacements for out-of-stock items. Buyers are recommended your wines based on their most unique and competitive features and can make more confident purchasing decisions. - Why join the Sales Accelerator Program? ☑ We offer you exposure to RNDC’s growing network of retail buyers and through TastryAI, over $2,500 in advanced chemistry insights, and a window into flavor profiles, consumer preferences, and optimal pricing. You’ll also receive customizable marketing materials to showcase your wines’ unique qualities. ACTION: Message me directly and I will help you get started ▶ #wine #winesales #wineindustry #tastry

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Hot take: California's new labor laws are making us a better company.   Let me explain. There's been a lot of talk about how California has been overstepping and imposing very restrictive laws on businesses, especially on restaurants. They are incredibly challenging to comply with and overcome.   BUT what if rather than see it as just a headache to handle, what if we take it as an opportunity to be a better company and serve our people better? Something our VP of People Sherry Broesamle said really stuck out to me:   “Our goal is to be more than just compliant to all laws, regulations, and regulatory agencies but seek to bless and serve our employees."   A great example of this goal is SB 553, CA's new Workplace Violence Prevention Plan Law. Not gonna lie, complying with the new requirements from SB 553 has been time consuming in what we need to now report to the government.   But instead of doing the bare minimum to comply, I've seen our People and Operations teams go above and beyond to use this as a chance to dig up and expose every way possible to create a safer working environment for our people.   In this process, they found more ways to protect our team members and create a safer, better workplace. Every day we strive to serve our people better, and we're grateful that CA gave us an extra push to improve.   We've had to use a lot of resources to do this, but in the end, it will prove beneficial because serving our people is a winning business strategy.   So proud of our team for living and leading our core values of “Exemplify Love” and “Help Others Win”.   Sherry Broesamle Gregg Rotcher Ricardo Huerta

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