Bridging the Talent Gap: IIM Calcutta Launches CFO Programme to Meet Rising Demand

Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, August 20th 2025 at 3:26 GMT by ThePrint
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The Indian business landscape is undergoing a rapid transformation, fueled by technological advancements and an increasingly complex global environment. This evolution has created a significant demand for skilled financial leaders capable of navigating these challenges – Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) who possess not only technical expertise but also strategic vision and leadership acumen. Recognizing this critical need, the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM Calcutta), in partnership with Emeritus, has launched a comprehensive CFO Programme designed to address this growing talent gap.

The programme, officially commenced on October 26th, 2023, aims to equip seasoned finance professionals with the advanced skills and knowledge required to excel in increasingly demanding leadership roles within organizations. It’s not just about mastering financial statements; it's about understanding how to leverage data analytics, drive digital transformation, manage risk effectively, and ultimately contribute to strategic decision-making at the highest level.

A Response to a Critical Need:

The launch of this programme underscores a broader trend: the escalating demand for qualified CFOs in India. As businesses grapple with economic uncertainties, regulatory changes, and disruptive technologies, the role of the CFO has evolved from a traditional accounting function to a pivotal strategic partner within the executive team. Companies are actively seeking individuals who can not only manage finances but also provide insightful guidance on investment decisions, risk mitigation, and sustainable growth strategies.

Emeritus, a global online education company known for its partnerships with leading business schools like IIM Calcutta, MIT Sloan, and Wharton, brings its expertise in delivering high-quality executive education to the table. Their platform facilitates a blended learning approach combining live virtual sessions with renowned faculty, peer-to-peer interaction, and self-paced learning modules. This ensures flexibility for busy professionals while maintaining a rigorous academic standard.

Programme Highlights: A Multi-Dimensional Approach:

The IIM Calcutta – Emeritus CFO Programme is structured around several key pillars designed to cultivate well-rounded financial leaders. These include:

Strategic Financial Management: Participants will delve into advanced topics such as capital budgeting, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and corporate restructuring, learning how to align financial strategies with overall business objectives.
Data Analytics & Business Intelligence: Recognizing the power of data in modern finance, the programme incorporates modules on leveraging analytics tools and techniques to gain actionable insights from financial data. This includes understanding key performance indicators (KPIs) and using them to drive informed decision-making.
Risk Management & Governance: The curriculum addresses the critical importance of risk management in today's volatile business environment. Participants will learn how to identify, assess, and mitigate various types of risks, ensuring organizational resilience.
Digital Transformation in Finance: The programme emphasizes the impact of digital technologies on finance functions, covering topics such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation. Participants will explore how these technologies can be leveraged to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making.
Leadership & Communication Skills: Beyond technical expertise, the programme recognizes the importance of leadership qualities. Modules focus on developing communication skills, negotiation tactics, and the ability to influence stakeholders effectively.

Faculty Expertise and Global Perspective:

The programme benefits from a distinguished faculty comprised of renowned academics from IIM Calcutta and industry experts with extensive experience in finance leadership roles. This blend of academic rigor and practical insights ensures that participants receive a comprehensive education grounded in real-world challenges. Furthermore, the online format allows for interaction with peers from diverse backgrounds and industries across India, fostering a valuable network of connections.

Addressing the Future of Finance:

The IIM Calcutta – Emeritus CFO Programme represents a significant investment in developing future financial leaders who can navigate the complexities of the modern business world. By combining rigorous academic training with practical application and leveraging digital learning technologies, the programme aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. It's a proactive response to the evolving demands of Indian businesses and a crucial step towards building a stronger, more resilient financial ecosystem within the country. The success of this initiative will likely pave the way for similar programmes across other leading business schools, further contributing to the development of a robust pipeline of qualified CFOs ready to lead organizations into the future.

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Bridging the Talent Gap: IIM Calcutta Launches CFO Programme to Meet Rising Demand