CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Company Profile
Headquartered in Norwalk, CT, our client is a very profitable, mid-sized diversified consumer products and services company with revenue approaching $200 million. They are comprised of four relatively autonomous businesses, each of which has carved-out unique niches in very competitive marketplaces. They are a financially-sound, employee-owned company that maintains an entrepreneurial culture which has been instrumental to their success. An experienced and tested senior management team, coupled with long-standing client relationships developed through years of proven performance, has them poised for significant future growth.

The Role:
Chief Financial Officer Reporting to the President, the Chief Financial Officer will assume responsibility for all cash management, finance, financial reporting, accounting, tax and insurance matters. As a key member of the senior leadership team, the CFO will assist in developing and implementing a strategic direction that will drive continued growth and market penetration, while providing reliable and consistent financial information that is necessary to make business decisions. In close coordination with the divisional CFO's and Presidents, the CFO will:

• Maintain existing banking relations and evaluate external financing opportunities on an as needed basis.
• Participate in the annual strategic planning activities.
• Lead the development of the annual budget and monthly forecasts.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual consolidated financial statements. Provide detailed analysis on the variations from budget and prior period balances. Coordinate the external audit.
• Continuously review the company-wide internal control framework. Implement any changes that will strengthen the soundness of the control environment.
• Assist in the preparation of federal, state and local tax filings. Design, plan and implement tax savings strategies.
• Oversee and review all insurance relationships and work to identify cost savings opportunities while minimizing exposure.

Candidate Profile & Qualifications
The chosen leader will be a proven performer at the Senior Financial Officer level and be at ease in a fast-paced and entrepreneurial environment. He/She will be a CPA and/or MBA, possess strong business acumen and have recent work experience within the consumer products, distribution or retail industries. It is critical that the selected candidate be a team player who is apolitical, but yet who also understands the political nuances of any organization. In addition, the selected candidate will be adept at balancing the strategic-level responsibilities of a CFO role with the need to "roll up the sleeves" and perform many of the day to day accounting functions.

Compensation
The chosen executive will have a base salary in the high $100K's and be eligible for an annual bonus of 25%. Additionally, he/she will participate in the annual employee stock ownership plan.