Ep 304: Kingsley Afemikhe - Embedding Finance in the Heart of Innovation

Ever wondered how a chemical engineering mindset can supercharge
financial leadership? Join host Adam Larson as he sits down with
Kingsley Afemikhe, CFO of Shield AI, for a refreshingly candid
conversation about bringing engineering problem-solving to the
finance table. Kingsley shares his unique journey from a family
of chartered accountants in the UK to leading finance at one of
the most innovative defense tech companies in the U.S.


 


Listen in as Kingsley breaks down how first-principles thinking
helps solve complex accounting and finance challenges, reveals
what it’s like to manage rapid growth in the high-stakes world of
AI-driven national security, and offers practical tips on
building strong, agile finance teams. Whether you’re curious
about operating at the intersection of finance, technology, and
defense—or just want to hear firsthand how AI is reshaping
finance—this episode is packed with insights, stories, and
actionable advice. Don’t miss Kingsley’s take on earning your
seat at the table, embedding finance across organizations, and
fostering a culture of curiosity and empathy in fast-paced
environments.


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