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 offers the opportunity to lead financial strategies, modernize systems, and guide a high-performing finance team during a meaningful season of investment and transition. 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