In this episode of FP&A Tomorrow, host Paul Barnhurst talks with Andrew Hull, a seasoned finance leader in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry. They explore the role of FP&A professionals in driving business results, navigating inflation, and transitioning from traditional budgeting to impactful analytics.

Andrew Hull is a financial executive with over two decades of experience in CPG. Currently the Vice President of Finance at UNFI Canada, Andrew has a proven track record of partnering with business leaders to deliver results through strategic insights and principled financial analysis. With a competitive spirit and passion for team leadership, Andrew shares his unique approach to FP&A, analytics, and the importance of actionable storytelling.

Expect to Learn:

• The three pillars of great FP&A: technical skills, storytelling, and actionable decisions.
• Why Andrew advocates for changing FP&A to “FA&P” and focusing more on analytics.
• Lessons learned from leading finance during the pandemic.
• Key metrics for success in the distribution industry, including variable margin and truck utilization.
• Practical advice for accelerating budget processes and focusing on analytics that drive results.

Here are a few relevant quotes from the episode:

• "The most value FP&A can add is when we take complex data and distill it into actionable insights." - Andrew Hull
• "Variable margin is the backbone of understanding financial performance in a distribution business."- Andrew Hull
• "A one-page visual with clear recommendations is the best way to communicate with executives."- Andrew Hull

In this episode, Andrew Hull shared a wealth of knowledge for FP&A professionals including rethinking the role of analytics to the importance of actionable storytelling. His practical advice on managing inflation, leading during a crisis, and accelerating the budgeting process offers valuable lessons.

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In Today’s Episode

[01:59] - Meet Andrew Hull

[02:50] - Redefining Great FP&A

[06:46] - Career Highlights in CPG

[10:35] - Leading Finance at UNFI Canada

[18:55] - Managing Inflation with Analytics

[22:24] - The Art of Storytelling in FP&A

[35:47] - Revolutionizing the Budget Process

[51:20] - Beyond Work: Hobbies and Passions

[58:07] - Closing Thoughts