Chief Financial Officer role for a family-owned industrial tech firm, focusing on growth, cash management, and cultural transformation.
THE PORTFOLIO COMPANY
The company, founded over a century ago, initially specialized in manufacturing asphalt and oil-based paints. Over the years, the company shifted its focus to the low-slope asphalt roofing market, becoming a primary supplier of high-grade roof cements and coatings in its region. It has since continued to expand, focusing on coatings, adhesives, and sealants, with a strong emphasis on professional-grade products for contractors.
Currently managed by the third generation of the founding family, the company is expanding its network of distributors and applicators across North America. It aims to innovate within the CASE (coatings, adhesives, sealants, and epoxies) sector, particularly in roofing products, with a buy-and-build strategy that includes integrating several other businesses.
THE PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM
This Private Equity firm specializes in acquiring and developing differentiated manufacturers in the Industrial Tech sector. These portfolio companies produce highly engineered products with mission-critical applications that enhance health and security. The firm leverages deep operational expertise to provide strategic advisory, financial capital, and management support, helping companies achieve next-level growth. Key sectors include advanced manufacturing, specialty chemicals, and RF/microwave devices. Committed to being more than just business owners, the firm embraces its role as stewards of a healthier and more secure future.
THE CULTURE
The company was previously family-owned and is currently light on resources. Major cultural changes are needed, particularly in moving away from the founder mentality. The company needs direction and a strong leader to guide them through these changes.
VISION
What does success look like in this role?
· Integrate the acquisitions.
· See through the exit.
· Guide the company through a tight situation.
· Command, control, and continuation of business operations.
· Help rebuild the company.
THE ROLE
· Manage entire financial reporting portfolio: P&L, balance sheet, cash flow, budgeting, KPIs, lender reporting.
· Lead acquisition integration and support.
· Act as primary partner to CEO for strategic planning and multi-year growth goals, annual budgets, departmental goals, and continuous improvement.
· Oversee corporate partnerships, licensing, and acquisition opportunities, as well as exit/sell-side due diligence.
· Attract, retain, and develop high-performance Finance, Accounting, and Administrative Team.
· Ensure GAAP compliance and uniform financial practices across the company.
· Deliver timely, accurate reports and presentations to CEO and executive team.
· Collaborate cross-functionally to drive profitable growth.
· Coordinate annual budget process and financial forecasts.
· Manage working capital and capital expenditures effectively.
· Support facilities planning and negotiation, including leases and build-out costs.
· Lead post-acquisition integration efforts.
· Manage banking and shareholder relationships.
· Drive continuous improvement across FP&A, IT, and cash management.
· Conduct internal financial audits and ensure accuracy in financial and tax reporting.
KEY SELLING POINTS OF THE ROLE
· Exciting buy-and-build strategy.
· Strong systems and processes.
· The previous CFO put in great cash and financial management systems.
· Strong forecasts and pipeline.
KEY CHALLENGES FOR THE ROLE
· Manage cash with precision and discipline.
· Navigate the business through a financially constrained situation.
YOUR BACKGROUND
The successful individual will be able to demonstrate experience in the following:
· PE experience preferred but not essential; must understand monthly and reporting requirements.
· Ideally from Industrial Manufacturing (Building Products) or Chemical sectors.
· Experience with exits and cash management.
· Background as a Controller could be relevant.
· Experience managing investor relationships.
· At least 10 years in multi-site financial leadership.
· Expertise in M&A integration and sell-side exit processes.
· Strong executive presence and communication skills.
· Proven track record in recruiting, team building, and mentorship; acts as a cultural change agent.
· Cooperative business partner in high-growth, multi-site enterprises.
· Deep knowledge of modern ERP systems (preferably SAP).
· Strategic leadership with expertise in CAPEX, buy-side, and sell-side M&A.
· Proficiency in Controllership, FP&A, IT Management, DCFA, and M&A Accounting.
· Ability to manage complexity through influence.
· Successful track record in profitably scaling businesses.
· Experience optimizing ERP systems.
· Flexible in roles, able to lead and delegate or step in as a "player" as needed.
· Proficient in computer skills, CRM, ERP, Microsoft Office, etc.
YOUR CHARACTERISTICS
The successful individual will display the following characteristics:
· Diligent CFO.
LOCATION
Chicago - https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Chicago
COMPENSATION PACKAGE
Basic Salary: $200,000 - $220,000
Bonus Package: 30%
Equity: Yes
401k: Yes
Healthcare: Yes
Raw Selection is an executive search firm working exclusively with Private Equity firms and their portfolio companies across Europe & North America.
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