Chief Financial Officer

This food production business ($100m) has recently been carved out from a large public company by private equity following a long-standing history as a contract manufacturer for nationwide brand. They now need an excellent CFO to help build a standalone entity, create all finance and accounting framework whilst working directly with the PE fund to devise long term operational strategy. The incumbent must be an expert in the industry and have private equity experience. It is pivotal to the success of the business that the incoming CFO can be a strategic leader with the board and work closely with the executive members.

Responsibilities:

• Develop long-term financial strategies aligned with the company's vision and objectives.
• Lead on all M&A activity.
• Lead on building a standalone entity.
• Identify all future target acquisitions.
• Lead the monthly integration of financial data from the separate legal entities.
• Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process, providing insightful financial analysis, and identifying opportunities for cost optimization and revenue growth.
• Develop and implement financial models to assess investment opportunities, pricing strategies, and potential acquisitions.
• Lead on the inorganic growth, planning and executing on two acquisitions a year.
• Oversee the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, ensuring compliance in line with regulatory requirements.
• Provide regular financial performance updates to the executive team and private equity investors, highlighting key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial trends.
• Conduct in-depth financial analysis, risk assessments, and scenario planning to support strategic decision-making.
• Monitor and manage cash flow, working capital, and liquidity to ensure the business's financial stability and to optimize capital allocation.
• Establish and maintain relationships with financial institutions to secure financing and banking services that align with the company's needs.
• Implement and maintain robust internal financial controls and policies to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
• Work with the audit and compliance teams to facilitate external audits and ensure adherence to all reporting and regulatory requirements.
• Act as the primary liaison with private equity investors, providing financial updates, responding to inquiries, and building strong relationships to instill confidence in the business's financial management.
• Identify and manage financial risks, implementing risk mitigation strategies to protect the business from potential adverse impacts.
• Build and lead a high-performing finance team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. An MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
• Must have proven experience in food production industries.
• Experience as CFO in a private equity backed business.
• Strong M&A experience
• Strong financial acumen and strategic thinking skills, with a track record of driving financial performance and contributing to business growth.