Partnering for performance The Partnering for performance series explores ways in which CFOs can grow, protect and transform their organization by partnering with the leaders of different functions. In this — the fifth part of the series — we explore the relationship between the CFO and the chief executive officer (CEO). In particular, we focus on the contribution that CFOs are making to four vital strategic priorities: 1. Driving and enabling the shift to digital 2. Measuring performance against strategy 3. Redesigning the operating model 4. Developing M&A strategy Our findings are based on a global survey of 652 CFOs, conducted by Longitude Research on In this report behalf of EY, and a series of in-depth interviews with CFOs, CEOs and EY professionals. Executive summary 2 For more insights for CFOs and future finance The CFO and CEO: key allies in value creation 3 leaders, visit ey.com/cfo. Driving and enabling the shift to digital 10 Measuring performance against strategy 16 Redesigning the operating model 21 Developing M&A strategy 26 Survey respondent demographics 31 Other publications in this series 33 Contacts 34 Partnering for performance Part 5: the CFO and the chief executive officer 1