Vice President, Finance

Description

Position Summary:

The Vice President of Finance is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of JC Ford, ensuring the financial health and sustainability of the company while driving long-term growth. This role entails developing and implementing financial strategies that align with the company’s overall business objectives, managing financial risks, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations and standards. The Vice President, Finance, will lead a team of finance professionals, providing insights and guidance to JC Ford’s Executive Team and parent company, Middleby, on financial planning, analysis, and strategic initiatives. This position plays a critical role in supporting JC Ford’s expansion and operational efficiency in the competitive tortilla manufacturing industry.

Position Purpose: 

• Develop and implement financial strategies that support JC Ford’s long-term goals and enhance overall financial performance

• Lead the financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes to ensure accuracy and alignment with company objectives

• Manage financial risks and opportunities, ensuring the company maintains a strong financial position while pursuing growth initiatives

• Provide strategic financial guidance to the executive team, President, and parent company, facilitating informed decision-making and long-term planning

• Ensure compliance with all financial regulations, standards, and ethical practices, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability

• Lead the finance team in analyzing financial data, market trends, and business performance to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence

• Collaborate with other departments to align financial strategies with operational and sales initiatives, ensuring optimal resource allocation

• Support the development of pricing strategies, capital expenditures, and investment decisions that align with market opportunities and company goals

• Assist with quarterly and annual audits and tax preparation efforts, ensuring effective communication and collaboration on financial matters

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Ensure the complete, accurate, and timely preparation of financial statements, reports, and forecasts, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies

• Collaborate with the executive team to evaluate business opportunities, assess financial implications, and develop actionable strategies for growth

• Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to enhance internal controls, streamline operations, and ensure compliance

• Monitor industry trends, economic indicators, and regulatory changes to inform strategic financial planning and decision-making

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and professional development to the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability

• Ensure effective management of cash flow, inventory, and working capital to support operational needs and strategic initiatives

• Manage local Information Technology employees and contractors

• Serve as liaison to Corporate Accounting, Information Technology, Treasury, and Legal functions.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills, with a focus on enhancing financial performance and operational efficiency

• Extensive knowledge of budgeting, financial planning, analysis, and reporting, particularly within the food manufacturing industry

• Ability to analyze complex financial data and market trends, translating insights into actionable business strategies

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing stakeholders and fostering collaboration across departments

• Strong financial acumen, with a proven track record of managing budgets, forecasting financial performance, and optimizing resource allocation

• Proficiency in financial software, ERP systems, and data analytics tools to support financial decision-making

Qualifications and Prior Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; a CPA, CMA, or MBA is preferred

• 15 years of progressive experience in finance roles, with at least 10 years at the executive level within the manufacturing or food industry

• Financial leadership in a publicly traded company, including Sarbanes-Oxley experience, preferred.

• Proven track record of leading financial strategy, budgeting, and forecasting in a large-scale organization.

• Demonstrated ability to drive financial performance and operational efficiency in a fast-paced, competitive environment

• Experience with international finance and exposure to global markets, regulations, and compliance requirements

• Displays the highest level of integrity in all actions and decisions