Controlling 2013 Speaker Profile: Michael DeLeo, Finance Systems Manager at CareFusion, Inc.

This week we are profiling Controlling 2013 speaker Michael DeLeo, Finance Systems Manager at CareFusion, Inc.

How did you get your start with SAP and SAP Controlling?

I have worked in SAP my entire career, but my first role with exposure to CO was as a cost accountant in Villamarzana, Italy (a small town between Bologna and Venice).  It was my first role as an expat and my first role in cost accounting, but I was quickly exposed to the mechanics of CO and the nuance to its relationships with MM and FI.

What is one of the most important trends that you see currently in SAP Controlling?

In my current role, I am more involved with the planning and forecasting side of the cost and operational expense world.  The trends I’m seeing related to expense forecasting is a shift away from the traditional “deep-dive”, “line-by-line” budget process to more drivers-based and relational models, which are able to be compiled and consumed at a more rapid pace.  As such, from a systems perspective, automation and master data have become ever more important to managing such a process.

In your opinion, why does SAP Controlling matter?

Controlling represents the lifeblood of the company: operations.  Companies with SAP that leverage Controlling have a better insight into their operational foundation and are, thus, enabled to make more informed decisions.

How do you stay on top of Controlling topics? What resources do you regularly use?

Conferences like Controlling 2013 are a great way to stay in tune with what is going on in the Controlling community.

What was your most important take away from Controlling 2012? 

The conversation and perceived relevance of forecasting and budgeting was a reoccurring theme throughout the conference.  Understanding and managing actual results has improved at a more accelerated pace than the forecast / budget side of controlling, and the resulting gap has become more apparent in recent years.

Where is your favorite place to vacation and why?

I have no particular favorite, but I really enjoy beach vacations.  I think Lisbon, Portugal was probably one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited because of its modern urban landscape, friendly locals, and proximate gorgeous beaches.

Is there anything else that you would like to share?

I am excited to come back to Controlling 2013 as a speaker this year and look forward to meeting fellow attendees.