9 Topics
5 Days
45 Sessions
Programme Overview
Training Description
Session Objectives
- Understand the unique information needs of executives and the board. Translate complex financial data into a concise, strategic narrative. Master the art of communicating key trends and performance drivers. Design clear, compelling visuals that support your message. Structure a presentation that is both impactful and efficient. Anticipate and prepare for challenging questions from leadership.
About the Course
Masterclass: Communicating Budget Results to Executives and Boards is a practical, executive-focused training course designed to help finance and budgeting professionals transform complex financial information into clear, concise, and decision-oriented communications for senior executives, boards, and other high-level stakeholders.The course focuses on presenting budget performance, variances, forecasts, financial risks, resource requirements, and strategic implications with confidence and clarity. Participants will learn how to move beyond reporting numbers to telling the financial story behind the numbers, highlighting what matters most to decision-makers and recommending appropriate actions.Through practical presentation exercises, executive reporting scenarios, case studies, and simulated board discussions, participants will develop the skills to communicate financial results persuasively, respond to challenging questions, and influence strategic decisions.
Curriculum & Topics
9 Topics | 45 Sessions
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Workshop 1.1:
The mindset and priorities of executives and board members.
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Workshop 1.2:
The difference between reporting for operations versus governance.
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Workshop 1.3:
Identifying the key questions they want answered.
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Workshop 1.4:
Tailoring your message to their specific needs.
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Workshop 1.5:
The importance of a "big picture" perspective.
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Workshop 2.1:
Moving from data points to a compelling narrative.
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Workshop 2.2:
Identifying the core message in your budget results.
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Workshop 2.3:
Structuring your story with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
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Workshop 2.4:
Using analogies and real-world examples to clarify points.
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Workshop 2.5:
Emphasizing what the numbers mean for the business.
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Workshop 3.1:
The importance of a one-page summary or "dashboard."
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Workshop 3.2:
Highlighting key performance indicators (KPIs) and variances.
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Workshop 3.3:
The optimal level of detail for a summary document.
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Workshop 3.4:
Writing a powerful and persuasive introductory paragraph.
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Workshop 3.5:
Ensuring the summary can stand on its own.
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Workshop 4.1:
The principles of effective data visualization.
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Workshop 4.2:
Choosing the right charts and graphs for your message.
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Workshop 4.3:
Avoiding visual clutter and unnecessary detail.
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Workshop 4.4:
Using color and formatting to draw attention to key insights.
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Workshop 4.5:
The power of before-and-after visuals.
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Workshop 5.1:
Structuring your deck for maximum impact and flow.
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Workshop 5.2:
Creating a clear and concise presentation agenda.
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Workshop 5.3:
The "Rule of Three" for main points.
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Workshop 5.4:
Using speaker notes to ensure a smooth delivery.
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Workshop 5.5:
Time management during the presentation.
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Workshop 6.1:
Anticipating potential questions and preparing responses.
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Workshop 6.2:
The difference between an answer and a conversation.
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Workshop 6.3:
Techniques for gracefully handling questions you don't know the answer to.
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Workshop 6.4:
Staying calm and confident under pressure.
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Workshop 6.5:
Using Q&A to further demonstrate your expertise.
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Workshop 7.1:
Understanding the fiduciary duty of the board.
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Workshop 7.2:
The unique legal and governance context of board presentations.
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Workshop 7.3:
Reporting on strategic risks and opportunities.
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Workshop 7.4:
Preparing for committee-level discussions.
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Workshop 7.5:
The role of scenario planning in board-level dialogue.
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Workshop 8.1:
The difference between reporting on the past and communicating about the future.
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Workshop 8.2:
Clearly articulating assumptions and risks in your forecasts.
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Workshop 8.3:
Using a range of outcomes instead of a single number.
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Workshop 8.4:
The importance of building credibility in your predictions.
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Workshop 8.5:
Communicating potential funding needs and their rationale.
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Workshop 9.1:
The last-minute checks to ensure accuracy.
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Workshop 9.2:
Techniques for a confident and engaging delivery.
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Workshop 9.3:
The role of body language and vocal tone.
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Workshop 9.4:
Practicing your presentation with a critical colleague.
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Workshop 9.5:
Following up with a clear and concise summary of outcomes.
