As often -- but not always -- is the case when a CFO has a former CFO for a boss, Gray considers it an aide to the relationship. "Tom understands the CFO role, so I believe he has more confidence in what we do as a group," Gray says. "Also, Tom wants to be the CEO, not the CFO. Each of us knows what we need to do in our respective roles to make the company successful."

The physical split between the CFO's and CEO's desks? That makes no difference in this linked-up world, he adds. "Tom is here in Los Angeles at least every other week. He maintains a constant presence in all of our markets meeting with our consultants, clients and team," according to the finance chief. "When he is not here in our offices, we are in constant contact and we have used video conferencing technology for years, which helps to diminish the distance issue."