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Victor Barnes
Chief of Connected Planning at Anaplan - Driving Business Performance with Agility - Board Member - Executive Coach
Victor C. Barnes: A Journey Through Leadership and Finance
Professional Background
Victor C. Barnes, CPA, MBA, is a distinguished digital CFO, accomplished storyteller, and dedicated coach with over 26 years of extensive experience across various Fortune 50 companies. He has successfully navigated diverse markets, cultures, and business models, leading integrations for major business acquisitions and innovating complex change deployments.
Currently serving as the Chief of Connected Planning at Anaplan, Inc., Victor has taken the helm in advising companies on their transformational journeys towards a more connected enterprise. His focus is on helping organizations maximize value through Anaplan’s cutting-edge Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions, truly redefining the art of what’s possible in the industry.
Before his tenure at Anaplan, Victor retired from The Coca-Cola Company in November 2020, where he made significant contributions over a remarkable 26-year career. His last position was Global CFO of The McDonald’s Division (TMD), where he led initiatives that not only streamlined operations but also made the division a digital pacesetter within The Coca-Cola Company. Under his guidance, the TMD team modernized its planning and collaboration capabilities, setting a new standard within the corporation.
Victor’s leadership style is shaped by his background as an elite basketball coach, emphasizing teamwork, unselfish play, and the importance of acknowledging contributions from all team members. This philosophy has translated into his professional life, fostering an environment where transformed businesses are poised to seize growth opportunities efficiently.
Education and Achievements
Victor’s academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Northern Illinois University and an MBA with a focus on Finance and Strategy from the prestigious Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. These credentials reflect a deep understanding of financial intricacies and strategic business management, which he has applied in practical settings throughout his illustrious career.
Throughout his time with The Coca-Cola Company, Victor honed his financial acumen, gaining invaluable experience that spans various functions, from commercial finance to regional controllership. His notable achievements include leading the financial strategy for some of Coca-Cola’s most innovative packaging initiatives and serving as the financial expert in crucial partnerships with global brands such as Disney, MLB, and NBA.
Notable Achievements
Victor is known for mentoring and coaching his former team members, ensuring their ongoing success with granular SKU-level growth initiatives, marketing spend visibility, workforce planning, and the integration of annual operating and three-year plans. His commitment to the development of others underscores his belief in strong leadership and the importance of nurturing talent.
As a visionary leader, Victor played a pivotal role in the post-merger integration and structuring of company entities during Coca-Cola's Africa Bottler acquisition, demonstrating his capability to manage complex financial situations across multiple countries. His role as Regional Controller for sub-Saharan Africa involved overseeing international tax and statutory governance, showcasing his adaptability in diverse financial environments.
Victor’s deep exposure to various industries, from manufacturing and electric utilities to entertainment retail and commodities, allows him to bring a unique perspective when considering the financial strategies of companies navigating today’s challenging landscapes.
In addition to his operational expertise, Victor actively contributes to various organizations and initiatives, serving as a member of the Board of Directors at Shentel. His involvement signifies his commitment to fostering growth and success beyond his immediate responsibilities.
With a strong foundation as a Big 4 CPA and experience in Internal Audit at both Disney and Coca-Cola, Victor has built a robust skillset that equips him to meet the evolving demands of the business finance world. His analytical prowess, strategic thinking, and passion for storytelling further enhance his ability to translate complex data into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Victor C. Barnes stands as an exemplar in the field of finance and leadership, embodying the spirit of innovation and collaboration that drives business success. His career journey continues to inspire those around him, as he champions a connected approach to planning and execution that maximizes value across enterprises. With each new challenge, Victor remains steadfast in his mission to guide organizations toward a more integrated and successful future.
