JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive executive search for a strategic and results-driven Chief Financial Officer (CFO) on behalf of our client, a premier, rapidly expanding industrial equipment lessor headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This is a critical leadership position for an individual with a deep understanding of capital-intensive industries and a proven track record of financial stewardship and strategic guidance. Our client is a market leader known for its innovative leasing solutions, robust portfolio, and commitment to customer success. As they embark on their next phase of significant growth, they require a CFO who can not only manage the complexities of their current financial landscape but also architect the financial framework that will support their future ambitions. This executive will serve as a key business partner to the Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors, influencing every facet of the organization’s strategy and operations.
Role Overview for Chief Financial Officer with an Industrial Equipment Lessor – Milwaukee, WI
The Chief Financial Officer will be a cornerstone of the executive leadership team, responsible for the comprehensive financial health and strategic direction of the company. This role transcends traditional accounting and reporting; it demands a forward-thinking leader who can provide insightful analysis, drive operational efficiency, and masterfully manage the company’s capital structure to fuel growth. You will oversee all aspects of finance, including accounting, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), treasury, tax, risk management, and investor relations. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on yet strategic leader, capable of mentoring a high-performing team while simultaneously engaging in high-level strategic discussions with the board and external stakeholders. Success in this role will be measured by your ability to optimize financial performance, mitigate risk, secure advantageous financing, and provide the data-driven insights that guide the company toward sustained profitability and market leadership in the competitive industrial equipment leasing sector.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Financial Officer with an Industrial Equipment Lessor – Milwaukee, WI
Strategic Financial Leadership & Planning
Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and executive team, providing critical financial insights, analysis, and recommendations. Lead the development and execution of the company’s long-term financial strategy, including M&A analysis, capital allocation, and strategic growth initiatives.
Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)
Direct the annual budgeting process, periodic forecasting, and long-range financial planning. Develop and maintain sophisticated financial models to support decision-making. Oversee the creation of insightful performance reports, dashboards, and KPIs for management and the board.
Accounting & Reporting
Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of all financial reporting in accordance with GAAP. Oversee the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes. Manage all accounting operations, including A/R, A/P, GL, payroll, and revenue recognition.
Treasury & Capital Management
Manage the company’s capital structure, including debt facilities, equity, and leasing arrangements. Oversee cash flow planning, forecasting, and daily cash management. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with banks, lenders, and other financial partners to ensure access to capital for equipment acquisitions and operational needs.
Risk Management & Compliance
Develop and implement a robust framework of internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity. Ensure compliance with all federal, state, local, and industry-specific financial regulations. Oversee the company’s insurance programs and manage relationships with external auditors and tax advisors.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber finance and accounting team. Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth. Structure the team for optimal efficiency and scalability as the company grows.
Technology & Process Improvement
Evaluate, implement, and optimize financial systems and software (ERP, BI tools) to enhance reporting capabilities, improve efficiency, and provide greater business insights. Drive process improvements across all financial functions.
Stakeholder & Investor Relations
Serve as a primary point of contact for lenders, investors, and board members. Prepare and present comprehensive financial reports, presentations, and analyses to the Board of Directors and other key stakeholders.
Industry Expertise
Maintain a deep understanding of the economic drivers and best practices within the equipment finance industry. Stay current on trends and regulations by engaging with resources like the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA).
Requirements for the Chief Financial Officer with an Industrial Equipment Lessor – Milwaukee, WI
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. A CPA designation and/or an MBA is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in finance and accounting, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., CFO, VP of Finance, Corporate Controller) responsible for the full scope of financial operations.
Industry-Specific Knowledge
Demonstrable experience within the equipment leasing, specialty finance, asset-based lending, or a similar capital-intensive industry is essential. A thorough understanding of lease accounting, portfolio management, and debt financing in this context is required.
Technical Acumen
Deep expertise in U.S. GAAP, financial modeling, budgeting, and forecasting. Proven success in managing complex capital structures, including negotiating and maintaining debt covenants with various lenders.
Leadership & Communication
Exceptional leadership skills with a proven ability to build, motivate, and manage high-performing teams. Superior communication and presentation skills, with the ability to distill complex financial concepts for non-financial audiences.
Strategic Mindset
A strategic and analytical thinker who can move seamlessly between high-level strategy and hands-on execution. Must possess strong business acumen and the ability to contribute to broad business decisions.
Systems Proficiency
Experience with modern ERP systems, financial planning software, and business intelligence tools.
Personal Attributes
Unquestionable integrity, ethics, and credibility. A proactive, adaptable, and resourceful problem-solver with a strong sense of urgency and ownership.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
- A competitive executive base salary commensurate with experience.
- A significant annual performance-based bonus opportunity.
- A long-term incentive plan, including potential equity participation.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Substantial paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage.
- Support for professional development, continuing education, and industry certifications.
- Relocation assistance for an exceptional candidate, if required.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical Chief Financial Officer search. If you are a qualified and interested candidate who meets the above criteria, we encourage you to apply. To be considered, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exceptional opportunity with you.
