The course was a timely kickstarter. It made financial concepts fresh again, deepening their impact through the immersive environment and opening up new perspectives by applying them in my classmates' diverse business contexts.
In the fast-paced world of corporate finance, adaptability and continuous learning are essential. For Ollie Farnsworth, Chief Financial Officer of Tourism Holdings Limited (thl), taking on a finance leadership role meant equipping himself with the right tools and perspectives to drive value creation. His search for an immersive, high-impact learning experience led him to INSEAD’s Finance for Executives programme.
A Dynamic Career Path
Ollie’s professional journey has been anything but conventional. With a background that spans strategy, operations, and leadership roles across the globe—including positions in Auckland, Beijing, Shanghai, Chicago, Atlanta, and New York—his career is marked by versatility and growth. He was recognised as New Zealand Young Executive of the Year at the 2021 Deloitte 200 Business Awards and has built a reputation for driving change and innovation.
Before stepping into his current role as CFO, Ollie served as Chief Transformation Officer at thl, focusing on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), cost efficiencies, and strategic planning. In transitioning to the finance function, he sought a programme that would sharpen his skills and reinforce his ability to lead with confidence.
Why INSEAD?
"As part of my onboarding as CFO, I was looking for an immersive finance programme that focused on value creation and would allow me to brush up on the necessary tools. My CEO is an INSEAD alumnus and a big advocate for the school, so it was the natural choice!"
INSEAD’s Finance for Executives programme stood out for its balance of rigorous financial insights and real-world application. Designed for senior executives needing to refine their financial decision-making, the programme offers a deep dive into financial management, valuation, and performance analysis, all within a dynamic and collaborative learning environment.
An Incredible Experience
Ollie recalls the programme fondly: “I feel like I took eight months of lessons in eight days. It was very intense, but the environment was perfect for learning.”
The combination of world-class faculty, a diverse cohort of senior executives, and an immersive setting at the Fontainebleau campus made the experience truly impactful. “The teaching faculty were incredible—a great mix of knowledge, insight about our businesses, and good humour,” he shares.
A particular highlight for him was learning from Professor Urs Peyer, whom Ollie describes as “one of the best teachers I’ve experienced.”
Beyond the classroom, the programme provided invaluable networking opportunities. “We had classmates from the UK and Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Australasia. There were CEOs, senior executives, and entrepreneurs—each bringing a unique perspective.” These relationships have continued beyond the programme, with participants staying connected and exchanging insights.
Immediate Impact on Leadership
The programme gave Ollie fresh perspectives and practical tools to excel in his CFO role. “The course was a timely kickstarter. It made financial concepts fresh again, deepening their impact through the immersive environment and opening up new perspectives by applying them in my classmates' diverse business contexts.”
It also reinforced his philosophy on lifelong learning: “The world is too dynamic for us to stand still. Pushing myself in my career and in life is essential.”
Life Beyond Finance
Outside of work, Ollie enjoys spending time with his young family, staying fit, and unwinding as an improv comedian—a testament to his belief in the “opposite worlds” concept, where engaging in activities outside one’s expertise fosters personal growth.
A Recommendation for Leaders
For executives considering the Finance for Executives programme, Ollie’s endorsement is unequivocal: “100%. If you’re looking for a programme that condenses months of learning into a short, powerful experience, this is it.”
Are you ready to elevate your financial expertise and drive strategic impact in your organisation?
Join the INSEAD Finance for Executives programme and gain the insights, tools, and networks to lead with confidence.
Find out more: INSEAD Finance for Executives
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