Centennial is partnering with a long-established, privately held food manufacturing company to recruit a strategic and hands-on Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This organization produces shelf-stable and ready-to-eat food products for both commercial and institutional customers and is known for its operational reliability, values-based culture, and steady growth.

This role is tasked with leading financial strategies to revitalize company performance, realize goals set in the strategic plan, and employee actions to improve EBITDA. The CFO will report directly to the CEO and serve as a true business partner—providing both vision and execution across the full range of financial operations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic and Financial Leadership

• Lead all financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and long-term capital strategy
• Provide analysis and guidance on liquidity, investment priorities, and deleveraging plans
• Partner with the CEO on pricing, margin optimization, and business case development
• Monitor debt levels and ensure compliance with covenants and regulatory standards
• Support board reporting, scenario modeling, and financial insights that drive decision-making

Operational Oversight and Modernization

• Oversee financial reporting, cash flow management, and internal controls
• Implement and lead an ERP system to enhance reporting and operational efficiency
• Strengthen cost controls, inventory accuracy, and visibility into COGS and labor data
• Ensure readiness for audits, tax planning, and compliance with GAAP and government contract requirements
• Improve inventory management through more frequent cycle counts and tighter reconciliation processes

Team Development and Culture

• Build and lead a high-performing finance and accounting team
• Guide the team through leadership transitions, coaching, and career development
• Foster a collaborative culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement
• Promote cross-functional trust and strong internal communication
• Set a clear example of integrity, responsiveness, and professionalism across the business

External Relationships and Representation

• Serve as the company’s financial representative with lenders, auditors, and strategic partners
• Build and maintain relationships with customer stakeholders at all levels, including C-level and VP decision-makers
• Represent the company at key meetings, industry events, and external engagements

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field required
• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in finance and accounting, with at least 10 years in senior leadership roles
• Experience in food manufacturing or a similarly complex, product-based industry
• Exposure to government contracting is preferred
• CPA, MBA, or advanced degree in finance or accounting preferred
• Demonstrated success in ERP implementation, cost management, and capital planning
• Strong command of GAAP, risk management, and regulatory compliance
• Effective communicator who can influence across departments and leadership levels
• Energetic and detail-oriented, with the ability to balance strategic priorities and day-to-day execution
• Proficient in Excel, Google Workspace, and financial systems
• Willing to travel as needed to build relationships and maintain operational visibility