It’s certainly a sign of the times when constant questions stream in around the exact same issue … job searching when you’re over 50. Most Chief Financial Officers ARE 50+ (or nearly there) and very few CFO positions are filled by those under 45. In fact, in a recent survey by executive search firm consultants, the average age of top-level executives last year was 48.9, up from 45.7 in 2007.
And yet, the angst continues. And with good reason.
- There are only so many senior finance positions.
- Competition for those positions is tough.
- CFOs don’t always have solid networks or networking skills.
- Many finance execs have never had to search in these “new” times.
There are a few roadblocks … but they are not insurmountable.
Age Discrimination …
Technology Dinosaurs …
Jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none …
Read the full article at AFP Online.
Cindy,
Nice article, it reminds us to focus on the value proposition.
However, I will add, your first two bullets: a)there are only so many senior finance positions, and b)competition for those positions is tough, can very possibly mean even that is not enough.
No question, David. That’s why it is so CRITICALLY important to always be looking / open to hearing about new opportunities while you’re still employed. It takes a whole lot of stress off of the search process.
Thanks for your kind words and for reading and posting! Have a great weekend!