Navigating the Financial Industry: Insights from Cody Chan, FP&A Manager at The Walt Disney Company

My journey to gaining deeper insights into the finance industry recently led me to Cody Chan, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in financial planning and analysis at major firms like PwC and The Walt Disney Company. Eager to understand the intricacies of a career in finance, I reached out to Cody via email to request an interview. He graciously accepted, and we scheduled our discussion for a Monday evening over Zoom.

In preparation for the interview, I compiled a list of questions focused on career growth, industry challenges, and the skills necessary to thrive in financial planning. My objective was to extract actionable advice and firsthand experiences that could guide young learner like myself.

Cody emphasized the importance of persistence and making small, calculated steps towards substantial goals. His career has been a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability, especially in navigating the complex landscapes of entertainment, technology, media, and telecommunications sectors.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the critical role of networking in the finance industry. Cody pointed out that building relationships isn't just about expanding one’s professional circle but about creating a support system that can provide guidance and open doors to new opportunities. He shared stories of how his network had been crucial during transitions and exploring new avenues within financial planning and analysis.

Moreover, Cody highlighted some practical tips for young finance professionals. These included staying abreast of industry trends, being proactive in taking on challenging projects, and continuously seeking to add value through innovative solutions. He also discussed the significance of mentorship, both in being mentored and in offering guidance to others, as a way to contribute to the finance community.

As I take the next steps in my academic journey at Harvard, I am particularly struck by Cody’s advice on being persistent and the importance of detailed, analytical approaches in finance. His encouragement to engage more actively in networking has motivated me to prioritize these efforts as I advance in my career.

I am grateful to Cody Chan for sharing his time and wisdom with me. His perspectives not only shed light on the intricacies of financial management but also inspired a deeper commitment to my career aspirations in finance.