Role Overview for Chief Financial Officer with a Mid-Market Industrial Distributor – Atlanta, GA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, private equity-backed, mid-market industrial distributor in their search for a dynamic and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Based in the vibrant business hub of Atlanta, GA, this is a pivotal executive leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Our client is a well-established leader in their sector, known for a commitment to quality, customer service, and operational excellence. With a strong foundation and aggressive plans for organic and inorganic growth, they are seeking a CFO who can serve as a true strategic partner, helping to navigate the complexities of a rapidly scaling enterprise.
The ideal candidate is more than a financial gatekeeper; they are a forward-thinking business leader with a proven track record of driving financial performance, enhancing operational efficiency, and providing insightful guidance to the executive team and board of directors. You will be responsible for the entire financial apparatus of the organization, from accounting and control to strategic planning, treasury, and M&A integration. This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance high-level strategy with meticulous execution. You will be instrumental in building a best-in-class finance function, implementing scalable systems and processes, and fostering a culture of accountability and data-driven decision-making across the company. If you are a seasoned financial executive with experience in the industrial distribution or manufacturing sectors and a passion for driving value in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Financial Officer with a Mid-Market Industrial Distributor – Atlanta, GA
The Chief Financial Officer will direct and oversee all financial activities of the corporation, providing strategic leadership and hands-on management. Key responsibilities are segmented into the following core areas:
Strategic Financial Leadership & Planning
- Act as a key strategic partner to the CEO, board of directors, and senior leadership team, providing critical financial and operational insights.
- Lead the annual budgeting and long-range strategic planning processes, establishing financial targets and key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with the company’s growth objectives.
- Develop and maintain sophisticated financial models to support strategic initiatives, capital allocation decisions, and potential M&A activities.
- Provide insightful analysis of financial results, including variance analysis, trend identification, and forecasting, to guide business decisions and drive profitability.
- Effectively communicate the company’s financial performance and strategic direction to investors, lenders, and other key stakeholders.
Financial Operations, Accounting & Control
- Oversee all accounting operations, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring the timely delivery of comprehensive financial statements and reports.
- Ensure robust internal controls are in place to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
- Lead the implementation and optimization of financial systems and ERP platforms to improve efficiency, enhance reporting capabilities, and support scalability.
- Coordinate and manage the annual external audit process, ensuring a clean and timely audit opinion.
Treasury, Cash Management & Capital Structure
- Manage the company’s liquidity and capital resources, including developing and maintaining a comprehensive 13-week cash flow forecast.
- Oversee all treasury functions, including banking relationships, debt management, and covenant compliance.
- Develop and execute strategies for optimizing the company’s capital structure to support growth while managing risk.
- Manage relationships with lenders, investors, and other financial partners to ensure access to adequate and cost-effective capital.
- Implement effective risk management strategies, including oversight of the company’s insurance programs and management of foreign exchange and interest rate risk where applicable.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) and Integration
- Play a key role in the M&A process, from target identification and financial due diligence to valuation, negotiation, and deal structuring.
- Lead the financial integration of acquired companies, ensuring a smooth transition of financial systems, processes, and reporting.
- Develop and implement post-acquisition plans to realize synergies and achieve targeted financial returns.
Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance and accounting team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Structure the finance organization to effectively support the needs of a growing and evolving business.
- Set clear goals and objectives for the team, providing regular feedback and professional development opportunities.
Requirements for the Chief Financial Officer with a Mid-Market Industrial Distributor – Atlanta, GA
We are seeking a candidate who meets the following criteria:
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required.
- An MBA from a top-tier institution and/or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is strongly preferred.
Experience
- A minimum of 15 years of progressive financial leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a CFO or VP of Finance role.
- Significant experience within the industrial distribution, manufacturing, or a related B2B product-centric industry is essential.
- Proven track record of success in a mid-market, private equity-backed environment, with a deep understanding of the associated reporting, covenants, and value-creation levers.
- Demonstrable experience leading the full lifecycle of M&A transactions, including due diligence and post-merger integration.
- Experience managing relationships with banks, auditors, and private equity sponsors.
Skills & Competencies
- Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop talent.
- Strong strategic thinking and business acumen, with the ability to translate complex financial concepts into actionable business strategies.
- Advanced financial modeling, budgeting, and forecasting skills.
- In-depth knowledge of modern ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, Epicor, SAP) and business intelligence tools.
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building relationships and credibility with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
- A hands-on, ‘roll-up-the-sleeves’ mentality combined with the ability to think strategically and see the bigger picture.
- Highest level of integrity, ethics, and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results-orientation.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
Competitive Base Salary
A compelling base salary commensurate with experience.
Executive Bonus Program
A significant annual performance-based bonus potential tied to company and individual goals.
Equity Participation
A meaningful equity stake in the company, providing the opportunity for significant long-term wealth creation.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous PTO policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid holidays.
Professional Development
A budget for continued learning, certifications, and executive coaching.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
How to Apply
This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
