Job Title: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)or Controller with Progression to CFO

Location: Winona, MN
Industry: Manufacturing – Metalware
Job Type: Full-time- On Site- Non Remote
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Company Overview

We are a growing manufacturer of high-quality metalware containers, serving both domestic and other North American markets. Our company takes pride in precision craftsmanship, efficient production, and strong customer relationships. As we continue to scale operations, we are seeking a strategic and hands-on Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead our financial planning and management functions and support growth through rigorous analysis, modeling, and financial discipline. Training for this position will be provided for by the company’s retiring CFO for a period of approximately three months.

Position Summary

The CFO /Controller will be a key member of the executive team, responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the business, including accounting, budgeting, cash flow management, financial modeling, ERP oversight, and strategic planning. This is a high-impact, hands-on leadership role ideal for a finance executive with experience in manufacturing environments and a strong grasp of ERP systems like Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision). This position leads a department of three people with 2 direct reports.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Strategy & Planning

• Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with the company’s operational and growth goals.
• Partner with the CEO and senior leadership team on strategic planning, investment decisions, and operational improvements.
• Use financial modeling and analysis to evaluate business scenarios, growth opportunities, and capital projects.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Modeling

• Lead the annual budgeting and rolling forecast processes.
• Build and maintain detailed financial models to support decision-making (e.g., revenue forecasting, cost analysis, margin improvement, capital planning).
• Use data from Microsoft Dynamics NAV to support modeling, forecasting, and KPI tracking.
• Conduct scenario planning and sensitivity analysis to support financial resilience and flexibility.

Accounting, Reporting & Compliance

• Oversee accounting operations including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, fixed assets, and month-end/year-end close.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with GAAP and tax regulations.
• Leverage Microsoft Dynamics NAV to maintain financial integrity and improve reporting workflows.
• Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, and financial institutions.

Cash Flow & Cost Management

• Monitor cash flow and working capital; forecast liquidity needs and funding requirements.
• Lead cost accounting and margin analysis to support operational efficiency.
• Drive cost-saving initiatives in partnership with operations and procurement.

ERP & Systems Oversight

• Ensure optimal use of Microsoft Dynamics NAV to support financial operations, reporting, and data integrity.
• Partner with IT and operations to enhance system utilization, reporting capabilities, and integration with production and inventory workflows.

Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate financial and operational risks.
• Oversee insurance programs, vendor contracts, and financial controls.
• Ensure compliance with state and federal tax laws and reporting requirements.

Team Leadership

• Build and lead a capable finance and accounting team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making across the organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (CPA or MBA preferred).
• 7–10+ years of progressive finance leadership experience, with at least 3+ years in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Advanced proficiency in financial modeling and forecasting.
• Preferred experience with Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision), including reporting, budgeting, and integration with manufacturing modules.
• Strong skills in excel, formula development, and data management.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory valuation, and manufacturing performance metrics.
• Hands-on experience managing budgets, cash flow, audits, and compliance.
• Excellent analytical, leadership, and communication skills.
• Comfortable working in a lean, entrepreneurial environment.

Why Join Us?

• Directly influence the financial direction of a growing company.
• Work with a team that values craftsmanship, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Take ownership of a finance function where your modeling and systems skills will have an immediate impact.