Master Budget Creation That Actually Works

Learn the systematic approach to budget planning that leading CFOs use. Build financial frameworks that adapt to real business challenges and drive measurable results.

Explore Our Program
Financial planning and budget analysis workspace
Marcus Thornfield, Senior Finance Educator

Marcus Thornfield

Senior Finance Educator

Learning from 20 Years of Real-World Experience

Marcus spent two decades as CFO for mid-market companies before transitioning to education. He's seen every budget disaster you can imagine — and more importantly, he knows how to prevent them.

His approach cuts through academic theory to focus on what actually works in practice. You'll learn the systems that have helped dozens of companies avoid cash flow crises and make better strategic decisions.

"I teach the budgeting methods I wish someone had shown me 15 years ago. No fluff, no theoretical frameworks that fall apart under pressure — just practical tools you can implement immediately."

Three-Module Progressive Learning

Each module builds on practical skills you'll use immediately. Start with fundamentals, then advance to complex scenarios and strategic planning.

1

Foundation Systems

Master the core components of budget architecture. Learn to build flexible frameworks that scale with business growth and adapt to changing market conditions.

2

Advanced Forecasting

Develop sophisticated prediction models that account for seasonal variations, market volatility, and business cycles. Handle uncertainty with confidence.

3

Strategic Integration

Connect budgets to business strategy. Create financial plans that support long-term goals while maintaining operational flexibility.

Real Companies, Real Challenges

Every lesson draws from actual case studies. You'll work through the same budget challenges that companies face during expansion, economic downturns, and market transitions.

  • Build budgets using actual company data and scenarios
  • Practice variance analysis with real-world examples
  • Learn crisis management techniques that preserve cash flow
  • Develop rolling forecast systems that adapt to changing conditions
  • Master stakeholder communication for budget presentations
Business professionals collaborating on budget planning

Your Learning Journey

Our structured approach takes you from budget basics to advanced strategic planning over six months of intensive, practical training.

Months 1-2

Foundation Building

Master the fundamentals of budget structure and financial modeling. Learn to build robust frameworks that handle complexity without breaking down.

Months 3-4

Advanced Techniques

Develop sophisticated forecasting skills and scenario planning capabilities. Practice with challenging case studies that mirror real business situations.

Months 5-6

Strategic Implementation

Focus on leadership and communication skills. Learn to present budgets effectively and gain stakeholder buy-in for your financial plans.

Ready to Transform Your Budget Skills?

Our next cohort begins in September 2025. Limited to 24 participants to ensure personalized attention and meaningful interaction with instructors.

Modern finance workspace with budget analysis tools