Olivier Bisserier’s career is a testament to his expertise in driving growth and innovation. From his pivotal role in Booking.com’s global expansion to his forward-thinking approach to technology and leadership, Bisserier’s experiences offer a masterclass in modern financial strategy. In partnership with Airwallex, we delved into the key lessons from the conversation to highlight the strategies and mindsets that have defined his successful tenure and can inspire the next generation of business leaders.
Olivier Bisserier’s time at Booking.com was marked by rapid global expansion. One of his key strategies was anticipating and addressing potential friction points that could impede growth. This forward-thinking approach involved constant evaluation of processes, systems, and team capabilities to handle increasing volumes efficiently.
He recalls the significant challenge of entering around 20 new countries annually. This expansion required establishing local entities, managing diverse regulatory environments, and ensuring the platform was localised for each market. The proactive approach to identifying and eliminating growth barriers was critical to sustaining their growth trajectory.
In today’s tech-driven world, Bisserier emphasises the necessity for CFOs to be technologically adept. During his time at Booking.com, advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence were leveraged to automate manual processes, significantly enhancing operational efficiency. He believes AI’s future impact will be profound and unpredictable, making it crucial for CFOs to stay informed about emerging technologies.
Bisserier highlights the dangers of tunnel vision, especially for finance teams deeply entrenched in specific processes. In a high-growth environment, the business context is continually shifting, making it essential to regularly reassess and adapt. He advises fostering a mindset of curiosity, collaboration, and adaptability to avoid the pitfalls of tunnel vision.
Scenario planning and preparation are crucial skills for CFOs, particularly in an era of rapid business acceleration. Bisserier emphasises the importance of envisioning multiple potential futures and preparing for them by prioritising likely scenarios and building agile operations that can quickly adapt to changes.
For Bisserier the essential elements of successful scaling can be placed into four areas: customers, cash, business model, and people. Sustaining rapid growth requires consistently expanding the customer base, securing sufficient funds, implementing scalable business models and processes, and having a team capable of evolving their skills and leadership.
Bisserier offers a candid perspective on work-life balance, describing it as a misnomer for executives. He compares the demands of a leadership role to training for the Olympics, where personal time diminishes, and the focus shifts to balancing work and family commitments. Transparency, stress management, and a supportive environment are essential for maintaining this balance.
Comparing the CFO role to that of a professional athlete, Bisserier highlights the discipline, focus, and long-term vision required to excel. Adopting habits and mindsets akin to elite athletes helped him manage the intense demands of the job. This approach is crucial for building a world-class finance organization that supports and drives business growth.
Olivier Bisserier’s insights offer valuable lessons for aspiring and current CFOs, emphasizing the importance of vision, adaptability, and continuous learning in navigating the complexities of high-growth businesses. Click here to see the full interview.
