On me operating in waves....

During one of my low moments, I asked Jim why he didn't express confidence in my ability to handle the combined Web/Media role.  Was it my ability, or something else?

Jim explained that he has always believed in my ability to get things done.  I had developed an incredible command on the business and leaders enjoyed working with me.  This was the reason he was willing to consider relocating me.  But there were a few reasons for his hesitation:

One reason was that I operated (and maybe still do) in waves.  When I was in my upward trajectory, I could handle all aspects of the business and had many supporters in Cambridge.  But I was also sensitive to feedback and could be in a downward spiral, hard to get motivated, go quiet, etc.  In those times I needed to get a human connection and had to get motivated.  His tip to me was: as I work to become the CFO somewhere, I need to work on ensuring that my highs aren't too high, and my lows aren't too low.  A CFO has to be emotionally consistent and stable.

Other concerns at the time was my location handicap and the fact that one of the leaders (GB) didn't like me much.  Jim philosophically believed that while a finance leader doesn't need to be best friends with the business leader, it is important for the business leader to like the CFO.  Also that the CFO needs to be physically located next to the business leader.