Pioneers in private markets: Passing on the baton
21.07.2025 – Articles
In the fast-paced world of private markets, the role of the CFO has evolved dramatically. What was once seen as a primarily operational function has transformed into a more strategic and proactive business partner, with CFOs taking on the mantle of driving growth and innovation.
A recent conversation with Steve Darrington, former CFO and CRO of Phoenix Equity Partners, and Matthew Maguire, CFO of Park Square Capital, provided valuable insights into this evolution and what the future holds for up-and-coming finance professionals in the industry.
The evolution of the CFO role
The transformation of the CFO’s role has been nothing short of revolutionary. In the past, the focus was largely on manual processes, tax, audit, and finance operations. Over the last decade, however, CFOs have shifted from being mere scorekeepers to becoming strategic co-pilots in their firms. This shift in responsibility has been driven by increasing complexity in the industry, the rise of new technologies, and a growing emphasis on data-driven decision-making.