Meet the Team
Our team of facilitators and mentors are all former CFOs and Finance Directors from across the globe. Drawing from their wealth of experience within and beyond the realm of finance they aim to collectively revolutionize corporate finance teams, making them more effective and efficient.
Dan Wells
Founder and CEO
Ex-KPMG equity partner and Deloitte audit engagement partner Dan Wells brings extensive experience in senior finance roles. He has delivered audit, advisory and M&A services to businesses worldwide. Dan is dedicated to helping finance functions by creating world-class community-led CFO development programs, team training, and powerful networks.
Kevin Appleby
COO & Podcast Host
Kevin is a chartered accountant who has worked as a CFO and management consultant. More recently, Kevin is involved in learning and development, teaching skills linked to business and financial transformation projects. Kevin's passion is to pass on his knowledge to as many people as possible and Kevin sees GrowCFO as a great place to do this.
Zoë Cooper
Sales & Marketing Lead
Zoë leads sales and marketing at GrowCFO, helping partners maximize visibility and generate high-quality leads within the CFO community. With over a decade in sales and digital marketing, she has built and trained large sales teams, founded an award-winning agency, and delivered international campaigns for leading property developers. Since joining GrowCFO in 2023, Zoë has focused on developing strategies that drive measurable growth for partners and create greater impact across the community.
Claire Gurpinar
Lead Program Coordinator
Claire manages program delivery at GrowCFO, leading high-impact events and initiatives in collaboration with strategic partners. She has a strong background in operations and team development, having previously worked as a Manager at HSBC, where she honed her skills in project management and learning and development. At GrowCFO, Claire combines her operational expertise with her passion for creating seamless, engaging experiences that deliver real value for both partners and participants.
Paula Kensington
Lead Mentor APAC
Paula established the CFO Conversations platform, advocating for performance that benefits all stakeholders, including the environment. She emphasizes a holistic approach to business outcomes. Paula is a professional mentor, executive coach and seasoned CFO with highly impressive experience at Regus, Keycorp and Chubb Security Services.
Ashley Vukovits
Lead Mentor North America
As an Executive Mentor based in the US state Indiana, Ashley has incredible CFO experience in both SMBs and large listed company, covering fundraising, M&A and company exits. Ashley mentors an impressive number of finance leaders and aspiring CFOs to help them grow professionally while also maintaining their personal goals and work-life balance.
Catherine Clark
Lead mentor Europe
Catherine Clark, an Executive Mentor with 25+ years as a CFO and Director, has empowered over 1,100 finance leaders worldwide. Her mentoring elevates confidence and leadership, drawing from her extensive experience. As a Chartered Accountant and thought leader, she engages with CFOs and C-Suite Directors, inspiring personal and professional growth.
Damian Smith
Lead Mentor Middle East & Africa
Damian Smith, a “recovering CFO” with 25 years of experience, a regional BN$ CFO, Regional Sales Director, and a leadership and systemic team coach, specializes in transforming finance teams and coaching senior finance leaders. Damian has worked for many flagship businesses including Sony, BlackBerry, Virgin Media, Telefónica and Vodafone.
CFO Mentors
Our mentors are all former CFOs and Finance Directors from across the globe. Drawing from their wealth of experience within and beyond the realm of finance.
Course Facilitators
Our expert facilitators are former FDs & CFOs from leading companies...
Meet GrowCFO Founder
Dan Wells
With over two decades of experience collaborating with finance leaders, Dan finds fulfillment in guiding talented individuals up the career ladder. Recognizing the formidable challenge of ascending to the CFO role, his career ambition revolves around crafting world-class community-driven CFO training programs and support networks. These initiatives are designed to ensure individuals never experience isolation or lack support in their roles.
Engaging with numerous finance leaders weekly, Dan assists in overcoming their most pressing challenges. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of topics, including soft skills, leadership, imposter syndrome, communication, relationship building, gravitas, influencing, personal brand development, resilience, value enhancement, and impact. He actively participates in public speaking engagements, chairing webinars, facilitating workshops, and serves as a leading commentator within the CFO profession.
Ready to transform your finance team?
Book your free consultation with GrowCFO today and empower your finance team to confidently navigate today’s financial landscape.
