Most CFOs taking on expanded roles.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Chief financial officer - Brief article

Extraordinary chief financial officers know no boundaries. Today's CFO is a top-notch accountant, problem-solver, and business strategist, as well as an influencer in human resources and information technology. Some 85% of CFOs interviewed by Robert Half Management Resources, Menlo Park, Calif., indicate that, over the past three years, their roles have expanded outside of traditional accounting and finance, with HR and IT the most commonly cited areas.

CFOs were asked, "Which one of the following areas outside of traditional accounting and finance responsibilities, if any, has your role expanded into most over the past three years?" Their responses: human resources (21%), information technology (19%), operations (18%), marketing (17%), sales or business development (10%), none/role has not changed (14%), and do not know (one percent).

"While tackling increased compliance and regulatory pressures, as well as internal controls and tax...