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The paper draws on the latest findings of the Ernst & Young ITEM Club quarterly forecast.

It concludes that the main challenge for the CFO during this period of uncertainty is to satisfy themselves and reassure the board that the current business plan is realistic and achievable.

Jock Lennox, partner and chair of Ernst & Young's CFO programme, says, "These are exceptional times. Now is the time to think about the worst case scenario ahead of time and have a plan ready to deal with it.”

The ITEM Club forecast shows a ‘net, net’ positive picture, but the context is one of considerable uncertainty.

Lennox explains that the leading CFOs will be those who are able to sort through their priorities to stay on top of their forecasts and provide the confidence to support growth opportunities.

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Related links

• Deloitte
• Ernst & Young ITEM Club
• CFO programme ITEM Club forecast Spring 2008