Role Overview for CFO, Portfolio Company with a PE-backed Food Manufacturer – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to lead the search for a strategic and operationally-focused Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for a high-growth, private equity-backed food manufacturing company based in the greater Minneapolis, MN area. This is a pivotal executive leadership position, offering a unique opportunity to partner directly with the Chief Executive Officer and the private equity sponsor to drive significant value creation and shape the future of the organization.
Our client is a well-established and respected player in the food manufacturing industry, known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With a recent investment from a leading middle-market private equity firm, the company is poised for an accelerated phase of growth, both organically and through strategic acquisitions. The new CFO will be a cornerstone of this growth, acting as a true strategic partner to the leadership team and a key liaison to the Board and investors.
This is not a traditional, back-office accounting role. We are seeking a dynamic leader who can transcend the numbers to provide insightful analysis, strategic guidance, and forward-looking leadership. You will be instrumental in professionalizing the finance function, implementing scalable systems and processes, and building a data-driven culture that supports rapid growth. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in a private equity environment, a deep understanding of manufacturing operations (specifically cost accounting and supply chain), and the executive presence to influence key stakeholders. You will play an integral part in everything from daily operational finance to long-term strategic planning, M&A execution, and ultimately, positioning the company for a successful exit. Success in this role requires a hands-on approach, a relentless focus on detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, results-oriented environment, underscoring the CFO’s critical role in driving value creation.
Key Responsibilities of CFO, Portfolio Company with a PE-backed Food Manufacturer – Minneapolis, MN
The CFO will be responsible for the entire spectrum of financial management and strategic planning. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership & Executive Partnership
Serve as a key member of the executive team, providing financial leadership, strategic counsel, and data-driven insights to the CEO, Board of Directors, and PE sponsor. Drive the annual strategic planning process and contribute to the development and execution of the company’s long-term growth objectives.
Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)
Lead the development of robust financial models, budgets, forecasts, and long-range plans. Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics to drive performance and accountability across the organization. Provide insightful variance analysis and actionable recommendations to management.
Private Equity Sponsor Management
Act as the primary financial interface with the private equity sponsor. Oversee the preparation of monthly and quarterly reporting packages, board materials, and investor communications. Ensure compliance with all debt covenants and reporting requirements.
Operations & Manufacturing Finance
Develop a deep understanding of the company’s manufacturing operations. Oversee and enhance the cost accounting system, providing visibility into product and customer profitability. Partner with the operations team to identify and execute on cost-saving and efficiency initiatives related to supply chain, inventory management, and capital expenditures.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
Play a lead role in identifying, evaluating, and executing potential add-on acquisitions. Lead financial due diligence, develop integration plans, and ensure the successful financial consolidation of acquired entities.
Accounting, Controls & Reporting
Oversee all accounting operations, including A/R, A/P, GL, and payroll. Ensure the timely and accurate delivery of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Design, implement, and maintain a robust system of internal controls to safeguard company assets. Manage the annual external audit process.
Treasury & Cash Management
Manage the company’s liquidity and capital structure. Oversee cash flow forecasting, working capital management, and banking relationships. Optimize the company’s debt facilities and ensure compliance with all covenants.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance and accounting team. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the department.
Systems & Process Improvement
Evaluate and optimize financial systems, including the ERP. Lead initiatives to leverage technology to automate processes, improve reporting capabilities, and enhance data analytics to provide better business intelligence.
Risk Management & Compliance
Oversee the company’s risk management framework, including insurance programs. Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal tax and regulatory requirements.
Requirements for the CFO, Portfolio Company with a PE-backed Food Manufacturer – Minneapolis, MN
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and strategic finance executive with a proven track record of success in a similar environment. Specific qualifications include:
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required. A CPA designation and/or an MBA is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive financial leadership experience, with at least 5 years serving as a CFO, VP of Finance, or Controller in a dynamic organization.
Private Equity Experience
Prior, direct experience as a senior finance leader within a private equity-backed portfolio company is a firm requirement. You must understand the cadence, reporting demands, and value-creation mindset inherent in a PE environment.
Manufacturing Industry Expertise
Significant experience within a manufacturing environment is essential, preferably in the food & beverage, CPG, or a related industry. A strong command of cost accounting, inventory management, and supply chain finance is critical for success.
M&A Track Record
Demonstrable experience in mergers and acquisitions, including financial due diligence, modeling, and post-acquisition integration.
Technical Skills
Strong technical accounting skills (GAAP) and advanced financial modeling and analysis capabilities. Experience with modern ERP systems and business intelligence tools is required.
Leadership Qualities
A hands-on, ‘roll-up-your-sleeves’ leader with a strong executive presence. Must be able to effectively build, manage, and mentor a high-performing team.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills. The ability to distill complex financial information and communicate it effectively to a wide range of audiences, including the Board, investors, lenders, and employees.
Strategic Mindset
Proven ability to think strategically and act as a true business partner to the CEO, contributing to all facets of the business beyond the finance function.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and compelling compensation package designed to attract and retain a top-tier executive. This includes:
Competitive Base Salary
A strong base salary commensurate with experience and market standards.
Annual Performance Bonus
A significant annual bonus potential tied to company and individual performance metrics.
Equity Participation
A meaningful equity stake in the company, providing the opportunity for significant wealth creation upon a successful exit event.
Comprehensive Benefits
A full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
Retirement Plan
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate.
Professional Development
Support for ongoing professional development and executive coaching.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive search firm for this confidential opportunity. To be considered for this exciting CFO role, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications. We encourage you to explore our work and learn more about our Private Equity CFO Practice to understand our deep expertise in placing transformative leaders like you. All inquiries and applications will be held in the strictest confidence. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this career-defining opportunity with you.
