"The Future Focused CXOs" PODCAST - Episode 30

AI & Data Transformation in Nonprofits with Planned Parenthood's CFO

The Future Focused CXOs Podcast|Ilana Esterrich

Guest

linkedin

Ilana Esterrich,
CFO of Planned Parenthood

"The Future Focused CXOs"
PODCAST - Episode 30

AI & Data Transformation in Nonprofits with Planned Parenthood's CFO

The Future Focused CXOs Podcast|Ilana Esterrich

Guest

linkedin

Ilana Esterrich,
CFO of Planned Parenthood

The Future Focused CXO is the podcast for C-level executives aiming to scale their organizations, lead through transformative challenges, and stay ahead in adopting cutting-edge technologies like AI. Each episode explores actionable leadership strategies, insights on managing rapid organizational change, and real-world examples from top executives tackling the complexities of modern business operations.

In this episode of Future Focus CXOs, we had the pleasure of interviewing Ilana Esterrich, Chief Financial Officer of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Ilana shares her extensive career journey, the role of digital transformation in nonprofits, and the future of AI in business operations.

What you'll learn from this episode:
  • The challenges and opportunities in digital transformation, especially within nonprofit sectors.
  • How AI is being integrated into operations, even in less-developed systems.
  • The importance of balancing generational strengths for successful tech adoption and change management.
  • The role of data management and AI in driving business efficiencies.
  • Tips on leading through change while staying mission-focused.

Tune in for a deep dive into the intersection of technology, finance, and leadership from a seasoned expert.

Engage with our Latest Conversations Featuring Industry Experts!

The Future Focused CXO Episode 30: Show Notes

Digital transformation has become a defining factor in how organizations stay competitive, relevant, and efficient. For nonprofits, this shift can present unique challenges. In the latest episode of Future Focus CXOs, we had the privilege of speaking with Ilana Esterrich, Chief Financial Officer of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Ilana shared her insights on how Planned Parenthood, along with other nonprofits, is navigating digital transformation, integrating AI, and adapting to generational shifts. Let’s explore the key takeaways from our conversation.

Navigating Digital Transformation in Nonprofits

When it comes to digital transformation, nonprofits face a unique set of challenges. Unlike larger for-profit organizations with expansive budgets and tech teams, nonprofits must balance the mission-driven nature of their work with the need to adopt new technologies that can drive business efficiencies. For Planned Parenthood, the focus is not on flashy tech upgrades but on creating lasting value by enhancing operational processes and supporting the organization’s long-term goals.

Ilana explained that while technology investments may not always be a priority for nonprofits, there’s still a significant effort to modernize. At Planned Parenthood, the finance team is transforming into a strategic partner, helping the organization become more efficient, while also ensuring that technology supports the organization’s core mission. This transformation, however, is a careful balancing act—one that combines mission alignment with technological advancement.

Leveraging Generational Strengths

One of the most intriguing points Ilana touched upon was the role generational differences play in the workplace, especially during periods of digital transformation. In any organization, workforce diversity—particularly age diversity—brings both strengths and challenges. For organizations like Planned Parenthood, where employees range from Baby Boomers to Millennials and Gen Z, digital transformation must be approached with a nuanced understanding of each group’s strengths.

Younger generations tend to be digital natives, comfortable with new tools, technologies, and ways of working. But Ilana highlighted a crucial point: they may lack the historical knowledge and deep understanding of organizational processes that older generations bring to the table. Meanwhile, older generations possess invaluable experience but may be less inclined to embrace technology. For successful transformation, Ilana suggests that organizations must find ways to leverage the strengths of both groups, creating an environment where collaboration between generational cohorts leads to innovation.

The Future of AI in Business

AI is transforming industries across the globe, and its role in digital transformation is undeniable. In 2024, many organizations are exploring how AI can optimize operations, improve decision-making, and automate repetitive tasks. Ilana’s take on AI was grounded in practicality—while larger companies may have more advanced AI systems, nonprofits are starting to embrace AI in simpler, more approachable ways.

At Planned Parenthood, AI is being used to automate routine tasks, such as financial reporting and communication, allowing employees to focus on higher-level strategic work. But Ilana also made an important point: AI is still in its early stages, and its full potential is yet to be unlocked. As the technology evolves, we can expect AI to play a much larger role in areas like data analysis, forecasting, and even customer service. The future of AI in business is bright, but it’s important to remember that its effective use hinges on having clean, accurate data.

The Importance of Data Management

This brings us to another crucial topic Ilana discussed—data management. As AI becomes a more integral part of business operations, the quality of an organization’s data becomes even more important. AI can only deliver value if the underlying data is clean, accurate, and well-organized. Ilana emphasized that organizations must prioritize data management to ensure that AI systems can function effectively.

In her experience, the most successful organizations are those that invest in proper data governance systems. These systems help businesses ensure that their data is trustworthy, allowing AI to be used for more complex tasks like scenario modeling, benchmarking, and predictive analysis. AI’s potential is only as good as the data it relies on, and organizations that get their data management right will be better positioned to capitalize on AI’s transformative capabilities.

Leading Change Through Digital Transformation

Leading an organization through digital transformation is no small feat. Ilana shared that successful transformation requires not just adopting new technologies but also managing the people side of change. It’s about fostering collaboration across departments and ensuring that everyone—from IT to finance—is aligned on the organization’s mission and objectives.

At Planned Parenthood, the leadership team places a strong emphasis on cross-functional collaboration. By working closely with departments like IT and legal, they ensure that technology investments align with the organization’s values and mission. And while the pressure to make quick decisions can be intense, Ilana stressed the importance of balancing short-term needs with long-term strategic goals.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance in a High-Stress Role

One final point that Ilana discussed was the importance of work-life balance, especially for leaders in high-stress roles. As a seasoned executive, Ilana understands the pressure that comes with leading an organization through periods of transformation. However, she also recognizes that maintaining personal well-being is crucial for long-term success.

Drawing on her military background, Ilana shared how she learned the importance of setting boundaries and taking time for self-care. By prioritizing her well-being, she’s able to be more present, effective, and resilient in her leadership role.

Conclusion: Embracing Change with Vision and Strategy

Ilana Esterrich’s insights offer valuable lessons for CXOs navigating digital transformation, AI integration, and generational shifts in their organizations. Her approach highlights the importance of strategic thinking, data management, and a balance between embracing technology and staying grounded in an organization’s mission.

For those looking to lead their organizations through change, Ilana’s advice is clear: embrace digital transformation with purpose, leverage the strengths of all generations, and ensure that data management is a top priority. As AI continues to evolve, its potential to drive innovation and efficiency will only grow—but only if organizations are ready to embrace it.

For more inspiring stories and actionable strategies from top executives, subscribe to the Future Focused CXOs podcast on your favorite streaming platform:

  • amazon music
  • listen on spotify
  • apple podcast