Archive for the ‘Finance & Accounting’ Category

SEARCH OBJECTIVE:

Our client has retained Resource Executive Search to lead a highly Confidential search for the position of Controller. This multi-billion dollar company has provided distribution, service and commitment to the retail and Wholesale Grocery Industry for over 60 years. Located in the South central region of the United States, our client is known for a tradition of high integrity and customer service. Our client services the retail grocery and wholesale independent grocery businesses. To serve those diverse customers, the company operates multiple distribution facilities (20) and it’s own fleet of tractors and trailers.

The company is currently undergoing a positive transformation to become more process oriented, efficient and value added for their growing customer base. The addition of multiple senior executives from top companies across the industry has created momentum and excitement for our client, their customers and their vendors. This position will be a central and critical position on the leadership team and will be expected to deliver systemic process and leadership to shape the growth and future design of the business.

THE POSITION:

The Controller will report to the CFO and will be responsible for the production and delivery of accurate and timely financial statements in a properly functioning internal control environment. This leadership role will require a strong knowledge base of accounting in the grocery industry segments mentioned above. The hired candidate will recognize that the first 24 months of employment will require critical attention to tactical operations including evaluating process and the timely delivery of a comprehensive set of controls and budgets as well as evaluating current staffing and future talent development opportunities. The design and implementation of best practices to deliver outstanding performance both now and in the future will encapsulate this positions objective during the first two years.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB:

• Enhance and ensure a proper functioning internal control environment throughout the organization.

• Timely and accurate production of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

• Manages the day-to-day activities of A/R, A/P, inventory control, payroll, fixed assets, retail accounting and general ledger accounting through a support staff of approximately 65 employees.

• Coordinate the provision of information to external auditors for the annual audit.

• Development of proper organizational structure for the accounting department to enable an efficient and effective operating department.

• Implement efficiency based strategies that drive departmental operating efficiency and effectiveness.

• Review, investigate, and correct errors and inconsistencies in financial entries, documents and reports. Perform analytical analysis to determine trends, estimates and significant changes.

• Partner with management to provide financial and operational reporting needed for the effective management decision-making and management of day-to-day operation.

• Ensure timely and accurate regulatory compliance and filings with local, state and federal governments.

• Research accounting issues and propose recommendations for accounting treatment. Be able to defend accounting recommendations to senior management and outside consultants.

• Streamline and simplify accounting chart of accounts and intercompany/ interdepartmental accounting.

• Hire, train, develop and evaluate staff. Take corrective action as necessary on a timely basis and in accordance with company policy.

• Provide leadership for the accounting staff by establishing organization and accountability through effective communication.

• Participates from time to time in various Executive Committees.

• Ad hoc work as required CFO.

REQUIREMENTS

• 12-15 years experience in wholesale grocery related accounting operations, holding progressively more responsible positions (size and complexity) throughout his/her career.

• Developed a high level of expertise in leading complex accounting and finance operations in a fast growth company.

• Worked in an environment that utilized state of the art technology systems to support operations.

• Has had the opportunity to be a key player in identifying system needs, selecting vendors/solutions, and implementing new systems.

• Held positions within an organization that utilized metric Scorecards/Dashboards to benchmark performance.

• Experience as a change leader in previous roles

• A proven reputation for developing leaders within his/her accounting team

• Developed a reputation for being results driven with the discipline focused on continuous improvement.

• Thorough knowledge of Information Systems and ability to work effectively with the CIO as required.

EDUCATION: BBA Accounting or Finance. CPA is required.

IDEAL PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

• Strong analytical, numerical and reasoning abilities

• Participative management style-advocates team concept

• The capability and backbone to provide honest and reasonable dissent, while taking an unpopular stance if necessary for the good of the business.

• Well-developed interpersonal skills, ability to get along with diverse personalities.

• Clear, mature communication style and self-manages behavior appropriately.

• Ability to establish credibility and be decisive-but able to recognize and support the company’s overall plan and priorities.

• High level of persistence and endurance. Does not get discouraged and encourages other peers/staff during a crisis or chaotic situation.

• Continuous Improvement is imbedded in his/her thought process

• Respects & appreciates people, can celebrate the “win” of others

 

For More Information Please Contact:

Tom Healy 781-837-8113

President tom@tchresource.com

Resource Executive Search www.tchresource.com