Leading Through Change: Adaptability, AI, and Strategic Leadership

Change is inevitable, but how leaders respond to it defines their success. Whether facing an economic downturn, technological disruption, or global uncertainty, businesses rely on leaders who can navigate the unknown with confidence. In our latest Future Focus CXOs podcast episode, we spoke with Jordan MacKinnon, VP & CFO at Sysco Canada, about the evolving role of finance leaders in times of transformation. From steering through the chaos of the pandemic to preparing for Artificial intelligence’s impact on finance, Jordan shares his insights on adaptability, emotional intelligence, and the mindset needed for long-term career growth.

Steering Through Uncertainty: Lessons from the Pandemic

Taking on a leadership role is always a challenge, but doing so during the pandemic was like driving a high-performance car in a snowstorm—exciting, but full of unknowns. For Jordan, the key to navigating this period wasn’t about making grand, sweeping changes overnight. Instead, it was about building structure, engaging the right people, and focusing on small, meaningful wins.

Rather than attempting to fix everything at once, he prioritized solving core business challenges and fostering collaboration. This approach not only improved sales and margins but also built trust within the organization. As credibility grew, leadership became more open to larger investments and strategic initiatives.

The biggest takeaway? Progress happens in stages. By focusing on steady, incremental improvements, businesses can create momentum, even in the most uncertain times.

AI’s Role in Finance: An Opportunity, not a Threat

If the pandemic was a test of resilience, AI is the next big disruptor—one that’s arriving fast and leaving many professionals wondering where they stand. According to Jordan, AI is now a dominant topic in CFO discussions, shifting the conversation from leadership strategies to how AI will reshape the future of finance.

The reality is that Artificial intelligence will integrate into finance functions, from Excel to ERP systems, automating tasks that once required manual effort. But while AI can enhance efficiency, Jordan believes that the human element—strategic thinking, relationship-building, and decision-making—will remain irreplaceable.

Many companies still lack a clear AI strategy, often hiring a Director of AI without fully integrating AI capabilities into their operations. Jordan’s advice? Don’t just watch AI happen—engage with it, learn the tools, and position AI as an enabler, not a replacement. Businesses that embrace AI thoughtfully will make better, faster decisions and stay ahead of the curve.

The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Financial Decision-Making

While finance is often associated with numbers, Jordan emphasizes that strong financial leadership is about more than just data—it’s about people. Every financial model impact individuals, whether employees, customers, or stakeholders. That’s why emotional intelligence, particularly empathy and listening skills, is critical for finance leaders.

Instead of simply presenting numbers, effective finance leaders engage stakeholders, understand their concerns, and align financial insights with real-world business needs. By creating a dialogue between finance and operations, businesses can make decisions that are both data-driven and people-centered—leading to better alignment and trust across the organization.

Career Advice: Stop Chasing Titles, Start Prioritizing Learning

For many professionals, career success is measured by titles and salary jumps. But Jordan shares a different perspective—growth comes from learning, not just climbing the corporate ladder.

Early in his career, he was tempted to pursue a CFA to break into banking. However, instead of simply chasing a designation, he took a step back and asked: Why do I want this? That shift in mindset led him to explore alternative paths, ultimately landing leadership roles that aligned with his strengths.

His advice for professionals, especially in the Artificial intelligence era? Think five years ahead. How can AI enhance your role? How can you integrate new technologies into your work? By prioritizing learning and adaptability, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success—titles and salary will follow.

Jordan’s leadership journey serves as a powerful reminder that success isn’t about resisting change—it’s about embracing it. Whether leading through a crisis, integrating AI into finance, or mentoring future leaders, the key is to stay adaptable, continuously learn, and prioritize collaboration.

For CXOs and aspiring leaders, the future of business will be shaped by those who can turn uncertainty into opportunity.