An in-depth look at FP&A-related topics that are developed via interviews with finance professionals. Presented as quarterly case studies with practical applications and tools to help you make informed decisions about key FP&A methods.
AFP FP&A Guide to Building an FP&A Function
Build a World-Class FP&A Function from the Ground Up
The decision to establish an independent FP&A function often arises when business demands outgrow what a general finance resource—working part-time on planning and analysis—can support. It may be driven by declining profitability, a need for greater financial foresight or a desire to strengthen accountability among managers.
The AFP FP&A Guide to Building an FP&A Function outlines the essential steps to take, the key questions to ask and shares five case studies that show how companies across a range of sizes, industries and circumstances have approached this critical challenge.
“FP&A’s mission is to drive the right decisions in the company.”
— Anders Liu-Lindberg, Co-founder, Business Partnering Institute
Your Roadmap to a Strategic FP&A Function
Whether you're a startup, mid-sized firm or global enterprise, the guide provides stable advice and adapts to different stages of FP&A maturity. It goes beyond budgeting and forecasting to position FP&A as a driver of business value using real-world examples. It includes questions, models and checklists to help users assess readiness and plan effectively.
4-Step Framework to Jumpstart FP&A
1. WHY – Define the Mission
Clarify FP&A’s role in driving decisions and supporting strategy.
2. WHAT – Build the Processes
Design workflows that meet business needs and enable agility.
3. WHO – Hire and Train the Right People
Mix internal expertise with external talent to elevate team performance.
4. HOW – Align Technology and Data Architecture
Use systems that create time, reduce manual work, and deliver faster insights.
Avoid the biggest pitfalls:
- Getting stuck in cycles without impact
- Rushing to implement technology too early
- Failing to align with accounting, IT, or business units
Questions to Build On
The guide provides a strategic checklist across six dimensions: Situation, Mission, Processes, Org Structure, People and Technology. The questions and guiding prompts can help leaders assess readiness, define goals and gain lift-off for FP&A transformation.
Key Insight: Thoughtful planning and stakeholder alignment are essential for long-term success.
Real-World Case Studies
Venture-Stage Tech (SmallCap):
Aligned tech, finance, and data teams to support performance with automation and KPI focus
Sabra (MidCap):
Shifted from compliance to business advisory roles by hiring business partners embedded in P&Ls
Convergint (LargeCap):
Scaled FP&A from scratch to stabilize margins and boost performance during growth
Fujitsu (Global):
Built FP&A to connect HQ and BUs with training, stakeholder buy-in, and best practice benchmarking
Aramco (MegaCap):
Used FP&A to instill financial accountability and investor transparency after going public
Who Should Use This Guide
The guide is ideal for professionals involved in finance leadership, strategic planning and operational performance.
> Chief Financial Officers
It offers frameworks for building political support, structuring teams, and integrating FP&A into the finance office.
> Finance Leaders & FP&A Managers
It provides step-by-step guidance on team formation, process design, technology selection, and stakeholder engagement.
> Controllers & Accounting Leaders
It helps define hand-offs, data consistency, and integration between accounting and FP&A.
> Business Unit Leaders & Operational Executives
It encourages business leaders to engage with FP&A as strategic partners and co-design processes that meet operational needs.
> Technology & IT Leaders
It helps to clarify the role of IT in enabling FP&A capabilities and aligning tech investments with finance strategy.
> Consultants & Advisors
It provides a structured approach and case studies to guide client engagements.