Business Unit CFO – Manufacturing
Chicago Area
Bell & Associates has been retained to recruit a Business Unit CFO for an established manufacturing organization in the Chicago area.
This is a highly visible finance leadership opportunity with responsibility for the full accounting and finance function of a significant operating business. The Business Unit CFO will work closely with senior leadership and serve as a key partner in driving financial performance, operational improvement, and long-term growth.
We are looking for someone who brings the technical foundation of a strong Controller combined with the commercial mindset and leadership capabilities of a CFO.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the accounting and finance function for a sizeable manufacturing business
- Partner with senior leadership on business strategy, financial performance, and growth initiatives
- Own financial reporting, accounting, internal controls, budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning
- Provide financial analysis and insight to support strategic and operational decision-making
- Partner with Operations and Commercial teams on profitability, pricing, margins, cost management, and business performance
- Oversee manufacturing finance activities including cost accounting, inventory, variance analysis, and operational reporting
- Lead the budgeting and forecasting process and provide clear visibility into business performance
- Evaluate capital investments and other strategic business opportunities
- Drive improvements in financial processes, reporting, controls, and overall finance effectiveness
- Lead, coach, and develop the finance organization while building a strong culture of accountability and collaboration
Ideal Background
- 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience
- Strong manufacturing or industrial experience
- Previous leadership experience as a Controller, Division/Business Unit Controller, Finance Director, or similar finance leader
- Strong combination of accounting/controllership and FP&A/business finance experience
- Experience with manufacturing accounting, including cost accounting and inventory
- Strong understanding of GAAP, financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management
- Demonstrated ability to partner effectively with Operations, Commercial, and senior leadership
- Proven people leadership and team development experience
- Strong executive presence with excellent communication and influencing skills
- CPA and/or MBA preferred
This opportunity is particularly well suited for a finance leader who wants to be close to the business. The successful candidate will be equally comfortable digging into financial results, partnering with operational leaders, developing their team, and helping senior leadership make better business decisions.
Location: Greater Chicago Area
Industry: Manufacturing
