In this insightful episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa interviews Todd Shores, Fractional CFO and Director with Creative Planning Business Services, to explore how a fresh financial lens and a team-based approach can transform operations for Iowa manufacturers. As workforce challenges and financial complexity continue to mount, Todd brings clarity on how outside expertise can fill critical gaps—whether temporarily or as a long-term strategic advantage.
Todd shares how a Fractional CFO model provides more than just accounting support. It offers access to a collaborative team of experts across disciplines—finance, tax, HR, IT, and business operations—ready to help organizations scale, stabilize, or recover. Whether a company is in leadership transition, considering acquisition, or dealing with ERP implementation headaches, Creative Planning delivers enterprise-level services without full-time costs.
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From building better dashboards to leveraging AI and ERP systems for real-time decision-making, Todd emphasizes the importance of integrated tools and expert guidance. He also highlights how organizations benefit when financial strategy becomes part of a collaborative executive team, especially during periods of disruption or growth.
Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of what it looks like to bring on a trusted external partner—and why Creative Planning’s holistic, no-silo model is helping manufacturers move forward with confidence. Whether you’re facing turnover, growth, or simply seeking better clarity, this episode offers timely insights to help you lead more effectively with the right financial tools and people in place.






