Xero CFO Claire Bramley shares advice on transitioning to board roles

Claire Bramley, CFO of Xero, shared insights on transitioning from an operating role to a board position. Following her appointment to Upwork’s board, Bramley emphasized that successful CFOs seeking board seats must demonstrate enterprise-wide strategic thinking rather than focusing solely on finance expertise.

Bramley noted that the professional profile required for a board role differs from that of an operating CFO. She advised that candidates should highlight their ability to provide strategic value to a CEO and leadership team, moving beyond technical finance and governance to act as a broader business leader.