Chief Financial Officer

Chief Financial Officer

Sierra Energy

Sierra Railroad - Sierra Group of Companies

About Us

Sierra Railroad is a pioneer in the energy, freight, and passenger rail industries. With Sierra Energy, Sierra Northern Railway, Mendocino’s Skunk Train, Sacramento’s River Fox Train, and Ventura’s Sunburst Train, we embody the essential spirit of California, our home since the 1800s: bridging history with sustainability, connectivity, innovation, and growth while providing valuable services to California’s businesses and helping craft memorable experiences for its residents and visitors alike.

Sierra Energy is committed to a zero-waste future through its development of FastOx® gasification, a technology that turns unwanted trash into clean energy without burning or process emissions. The company continues to advance its technology and test new applications for gasification at its Sierra Energy Research Park in Davis, California and at its commercial demonstration facility in Monterey County, California.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and execute financial strategies to support business growth, operational efficiency, and long-term profitability.
• Oversee financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and risk management to ensure fiscal sustainability.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to the CEO and executive leadership team to drive strategic decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and financial reporting obligations.

Financial Operations & Risk Management

• Lead financial operations, including accounting, treasury, tax, and internal controls.
• Monitor financial performance, analyze key business metrics, and implement strategies to improve profitability and cost efficiency.
• Oversee capital expenditures, asset management, and investment strategies to optimize financial resources.
• Manage financial risk, including credit exposure, insurance policies, and regulatory compliance.

Corporate Governance & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to GAAP, SEC regulations, and industry-specific compliance standards.
• Collaborate with external auditors, tax advisors, and regulatory agencies to maintain financial integrity.
• Implement and enforce internal controls to mitigate financial risks and enhance operational transparency.

Stakeholder & Investor Relations

• Serve as a key liaison with investors, financial institutions, and external stakeholders.
• Lead capital-raising efforts, debt financing, and investor communications to support growth initiatives.
• Present financial reports, forecasts, and strategic recommendations to the Board of Directors.

Operational & Industry Leadership

• Partner with operations teams to optimize financial efficiency across energy and railroad entities.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives, negotiate contracts, and oversee financial aspects of supply chain management.
• Lead financial aspects of mergers, acquisitions, and expansion projects within the industry.

Qualifications

• 5 years of progressive financial leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a CFO or senior finance role.
• Experience in the energy, transportation, railroad, or heavy infrastructure industries preferred.
• Strong knowledge of financial regulations, tax laws, and corporate governance.
• Expertise in financial modeling, investment analysis, and risk management.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to drive financial and operational excellence.
• CPA, CFA, or MBA preferred.