In this episode James Kennedy sits down with Ben de la Cretaz, Partner and CFO at TechCXO. Ben brings a wealth of experience working with startups and growth-stage companies, particularly in the tech and biotech industries. As a fractional CFO and COO, Ben helps businesses set up the systems they need to scale successfully, all while focusing on finance, fundraising, and operations.
In this episode, James and Ben explore the challenges small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) face when it comes to purchasing and finance management. Ben shares invaluable hacks and strategies to help entrepreneurs make smarter purchasing decisions, optimize cash flow, and avoid common financial pitfalls.
Episode Highlights:
- From Academia to Entrepreneurship: Ben shares how he helps entrepreneurs fresh out of academia transition into the business world and turn their dreams into reality.
- Cash Flow Mastery: Ben talks about the importance of understanding how cash moves through a business, and how teaching this concept became his passion after stepping away from his dream of owning a restaurant.
- Strategic Purchasing for SMBs: Learn about the purchasing hacks Ben recommends for SMBs to save money and manage their cash flow more effectively.
- Fundraising and Growth: Ben discusses his role in guiding startups through fundraising and equity rounds, and the systems he puts in place to support rapid growth.
What You’ll Learn:
- Optimizing Purchasing for SMBs: Ben’s top tips for small businesses to manage purchasing, reduce costs, and boost profitability.
- Understanding Cash Flow: How SMBs can get a better handle on their cash flow and avoid running out of funds during crucial growth stages.
- Setting Up for Success: The systems and processes Ben helps startups implement to ensure long-term financial and operational success.
- Fundraising and Scaling: Insights into how Ben helps startups navigate fundraising rounds, equity deals, and strategic planning for growth.
Ben’s diverse experience allows him to share practical, industry-specific advice for business owners in these fields, covering everything from platform implementation and business intelligence to M&A and international operations.