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Focus: Mastering finance in government

Government missions have become more complex amidst competing demands for efficiency and security. Likewise, transparency and accountability are on the rise as citizens expect greater insight into where their limited tax dollars are going.

When governments fail in their critical financial responsibilities, it undermines public credibility, perpetuates distrust, and makes citizens question whether public agencies are capable of performing their missions. In essence, poor financial management hurts the government brand.

Given these expectations, finance is now strategic. The finance group’s contribution must move beyond its traditional role of support function to play a key role as the enabler of the complex missions for which government leaders are increasingly responsible.

Deloitte recently surveyed more than 200 government leaders in 28 countries with the goal of understanding to what extent
governments are trying to make finance more strategic. The results highlighted significant gaps between current needs and capabilities but also a remarkable level of agreement about how government agencies need to strengthen and better integrate their finance capabilities.

For survey results as well as related perspectives on finance in government, see the reports below.

Featured content

 Mastering finance in government Mastering finance in government
This survey of more than 200 government officials around the world reveals to what extent governments must strengthen and better incorporate finance into their strategies.

Related content

 Finance transformation for the public sector Finance transformation for the public sector
The public sector is undergoing radical reform and finance is at the heart of the change. What steps are needed for governments to meet the ever-increasing demands?
 Four faces of the CFO Four faces of the CFO
This framework was designed to help CFOs understand and resolve much of the turmoil that has buffeted their roles, and their finance organizations.
 The finance talent challenge The finance talent challenge
This survey explores how CFOs can attract and retain the right finance talent to meet strategic needs.
 Financial insight Financial insight: Key for tough times
In this article published by Governing, Willim Eggers, Deloitte Global Research Director, Public Sector, explains how government officials are handicapped by their lack of good financial data.
 Breathing lessons for CFOs Book: Breathing lessons for CFOs
This book discusses the continuous challenges today’s CFOs face as they try to balance all of the demands that come with their position and offers practical advice to help them succeed at the things that really matter.
 Transforming the finance function of the public sector Podcast: Transforming the finance function of the public sector
Federal CFOs must find ways to balance their traditional finance reporting role with that of a strategist focused on contributing value to the overall organization.
Related links

CFO services
How we can help.

Deloitte thought leaders discuss issues facing the CFO
Finance issues in the news.

Federal Financial Management Solutions Center
Resources for federal CFOs.

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