Institute of Florida School Finance
Florida School Finance Officers Association
The CFO’s Critical Role in Collective Bargaining
The CFO’s Critical Role in Collective Bargaining
During a presentation for the Florida School Finance Officers Association’s Institute of Florida School Finance, RumbergerKirk partner Leonard Dietzen presented “The CFO’s Critical Role in Collective Bargaining,” emphasizing that collective bargaining is not solely a legal or HR matter—it’s a vital component of financial strategy and decision-making.
He shared that a CFO’s involvement is essential to achieving agreements that are not only lawful, but also fiscally sustainable. He outlined several key responsibilities CFOs should prioritize throughout the bargaining process:
- Preparation before bargaining – Developing a strong understanding of current finances and potential impacts of proposed changes.
- Presenting financial realities to the board – Equipping decision-makers with accurate, transparent data to support informed choices.
- Staying actively engaged during negotiations – Playing a visible, informed role at the table to guide discussions with practical insight.
- Maintaining transparency with all stakeholders – Ensuring open communication builds trust and reinforces financial accountability.
His presentation underscored the importance of cross-functional collaboration and proactive leadership in achieving balanced, forward-thinking agreements.