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Becky N. CPA, Chicago, IL

Becky N. CPA, Chicago, IL

Chief Financial Officer

Highlights: Mergers & Acquisitions, System Implementations, IFRS, Business Process Improvement, Leadership

CURRENTLY AT

Northstar Aerospace

Becky is available for hire

Hire Becky

Becky is a versatile, dynamic leader that is not only strategic, but can make a quick switch to tactical issues. Her success is attributed to her philosophy of breaking down workflows into hard processes and standardization. Her experiences in large global companies to PE-held mid-market, gives her a unique perspective of what can work practically in different sized organizations.

Skills: Mergers & Acquisitions, System Implementations, IFRS, Business Process Improvement, Auditing, Financial Analysis, and Accounting, SAP & Oracle expert level

Work Experience

MSeed, Fractional CFO                                                                                       2023 – Present

  • Hired to handle bank negotiations for an existing LOC and bank audits for a privately held manufacturing company on the verge of violating their bank covenants
  • Directed staff in clean-up of back-log of 12 months of transactions and ERP system conversion that had some major glitches causing reporting and inventory valuation errors.
  • Set in place with the help of MSeed a new Controller, who was successfully onboarded, along with a Staff Accountant.
  • Continues to advise and review financials quarterly for company.

Northstar Aerospace, Chief Financial Officer                                                  2021 – Present

  • Lead Accounting, Financial reporting and Technology shared service team of 25 for 3 plant locations and HQ.
  • PE owned company responsible for financial health and strategic finance decisions for organization.
  • Evaluate and implement a new ERP system, Blackline tool and various other process improvements.
  • Manage Program Finance for compliance with DOD.

Wastebuilt Environmental Solutions, Chief Financial Officer                          2019 – 2021

  • Led the sale of the business, including reviewing proposals, giving presentations and
  • Led Accounting, Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable functions for $90 million multi-site refuse parts distribution, whole goods sales, and refuse vehicle service repair organization.
  • Completed three open financial statement audits and bank audit while enterprise was in forbearance, allowing enterprise to extend forbearance agreement and ultimately recapitalize with strategic buyer.
  • Primary source of data schedules and financial diligence process during strategic acquisition, handling several diligence calls with Buyer, Investment Banks and third-party auditors.
  • Responsible for accurate accounting records and reducing 45-day month-end close cycle to 5 business days
  • Produced and prepared SBA Loan Application package for $2.4mm PPP Loan during COVID-19. Produced all subsequent documentation for full forgiveness of loan.
  • Provided daily asset-based-loan (“ABL”) calculations during forbearance to receive ongoing cash flow.
  • Reduced AR Aged 90 days from >$2mm to <$0.1mm in six months via strategic monitoring and customer outreach with less than $10k write-offs.
  • Provided clarity on true profitability of Parts sales linked to supplier rebates, resulting in Company expanding product offerings with GP that was higher than originally assessed.

Sparton Defense, Director of Business Systems & Analysis                            2017 – 2018

  • Developed and integrated a strategy for ERP solutions, meeting Compliance, Finance and Operations needs while mitigating the types and number of solutions necessary to maintain a balanced and expected ROI.
  • Integration director for all Mergers and Acquisitions activity from a business and process development side. Promoting integration, automation and responsibility at the source.
  • Developing tools that allow for external financial reporting while meeting the requirements of DFAR and CAS and producing automated government reporting and audit tools.
  • Leading a team of expert Key Users and support organizations for the integrated template.

Sr Business Architect (July 2016 – July 2017)

  • Led a business team of Process Owners in the design and implementation of Oracle ERP solution supporting both financial and operational needs of a Fully CAS Compliant defense contractor.

UPM – The Biofore Company, Director of Financial Services, Americas         2008 – 2016 

  • Managed teams responsible for Financial Reporting ($3B in revenue) for the Americas Region in both IFRS and all local statutory reporting principles (US and Canadian GAAP)
  • North American lead in all M&A activity. Responsible for on-site asset and management transitions.  Developed and implemented a global transition plan for all M&A financial activity
  • Tax planning and asset management for $300M of Deferred Tax Assets in US and Canada
  • North American Transfer Pricing Manager responsible for policy, pricing and agreements. Global Operational Transfer Pricing BPO fluent in both US482 / OECD Guidelines
  • North American Manager for all regional implementations of global ERP solutions including SAP and OTM
  • Member of the Global Financial Services Management board designing and advancing the vision of financial shared services including Global Transactional Services, Global Closing and Reporting and Local Country Finance
  • Corporate Director and Board member, North American legal entities, Regional Risk Management Director, Pension Fiduciary Board Director

UPM Financial Controller, Closing and Reporting (2006-2008)

  • Managed the financial closing and reporting processes for the Americas region in both IFRS and local statutory reporting principles
  • Managed the internal control environment thru SOX certification and ongoing audits of both operational and business controlling areas
  • Led and partner with both Internal/External Audit teams for financial and internal control audits
  • Managed all external tax and customs audits including: state level sales and use tax, Canadian governmental and provincial VAT tax, and US and Canadian customs audits and clearance
  • Finance Implementation manager for global ERP solutions focusing on legal operating models, transfer pricing controls and financial reporting integration.
  • Responsible for business and financial analysis of transfer pricing methodologies and operating profitability
  • Treasury Manager responsible for regional banking relationships and cash pooling
  • Regional Transition Manager for the development and implementation of Financial Shared Services concept focusing on centralization of Global Transaction services and Regional Closing and Reporting. Centralizing AP, AR and CM to Tampere, Finland while regionalizing Closing and Reporting to a central location within the Americas responsible for GL, CO, AA, and Monthly, Interim and Annual reporting.
  • Responsible for reducing monthly closing cycle times to 4 workdays and Annual reporting reduced to 7 workdays including external audit and full tax provision preparation.

UPM Accounting Operations Manager (2003 – 2006)

  • Responsible for the Accounting operations team for the US Sales Company, responsible for General Ledger, Asset Accounting, Cash Management, Accounts Payable, Travel Expense and preparation of interim financial reporting packages.
  • Designed and Implemented SAP FICO Module including business process designs, creation of period end closing template, implementation of the new SAP cash pooling and internal banking transactions and led the team to develop a global chart of accounts.
  • Designed and implemented T/E corporate and PCard program.  Program included proprietary interfaces for automated cash reimbursement, monthly corporate card transactional posting and processing, and automated accounting reclass processing.
  • Led pilot for shared services in a region by centralizing cash management and accounts payable processing for all US and Canadian legal entities.

Fairrington Transportation Services, Financial Controller                           1999-2002       

  • Managed Finance, Human Resources, IT and Order Entry teams for a mid-size privately held 3PL in the bulk mail industry. Finance teams included A/P, A/R, Revenue, Invoicing and General Ledger.
  • Transitioned company from cash to accrual basis to improve efficiencies and maximize tax benefits
  • Responsible for financial analysis and reporting for operational and services entities
  • Built logistics profitability model to enable the NLRB to understand industry labor needs
  • Implemented a proactive customer oriented collections process bringing DSO from 48 days to 32 days
  • Member of the Executive Management Team
  • Implementation Manager for operational and financial ERP solutions, including a proprietary order fulfilment solution designed by my team to be marketed externally for 3PLs. System included integrated EDI track and trace, document imaging, 24 hour procure to pay process for carriers, electronic invoicing and cash application.
  • Designed and developed a real time scanning and inventory control system for the Warehouse to use to ensure accurate loading and tracking of warehouse inventory moves without leaving the forklift.

 

Amoco Corporation, Business Implementation Manager (1996-1999)

  • Managed the business implementation team for the global order fulfilment ERP solution for SAP integration. Business teams included pipeline operations/ measurement, production scheduling, accounting, revenue and tariffs.
  • Global Shared Services Design team member responsible for the definition and development of financial shared services including economics, site selection, function selection, roles and implementation.
  • Led the first Buy vs Build cross functional analysis team to determine the best practices for Amoco systems implementation going forward.
  • Partnered with external IT Consultants to design, develop, test, and implement the first fully integrated order fulfilment module. Started with a proprietary software base designed by an industry competitor and completed Fit Gap and Design analysis to determine ultimate scope of the project (this SW is today owned and integrated into standard Oil & Gas industry package within Oracle).
  • Led a team of Change Management and Training specialists to assist in the effective roll out of a companywide business process and systems change.
  • Developed own in house training model focusing on business process change and support.

Amoco Pipeline, Variable Cost Manager (1994-1995)

Amoco Pipeline, Revenue Team Lead (1991-1994)

Amoco Pipeline, Accounting Coordinator (1990-1991)

Amoco Supply & Trading, Staff Accountant (1990)

EDUCATION

BS Accountancy, Northern Illinois University, Dekalb IL

CPA, Illinois, 1990 (Top 1%)

 

Michael N. CPA, Chicago, IL

Michale N. CPA, Chicago, IL

Chief Financial Officer

Trusted C-suite partner – Providing the strategic direction for finance operations within private-equity backed companies.

Highlights: Healthcare, Multi-site, PE backed, Start-ups

PREVIOUSLY AT Elite Dental Partners

Michael is available for hire

Hire Michael

Consulting Highlights

Hold fiduciary responsibility and fiscal stewardship accountability – Expert at deconstructing and shining a light on complex performance problems to improve operational and financial results, developing innovative solutions to business crippling issues and delivering million dollar+ cost savings. Exceptional relationship builder, known for a lead by example management style, mentoring the team to build competencies and support advancement opportunities.

Work Experience

ELITE DENTAL PARTNERS | Chicago, IL  2020 – 2023

Chief Financial Officer (2022 – 2023)

Promoted to the C-suite and reported to the CEO and board of directors. Charged with providing the strategic direction for corporate finance and accounting for this private equity held company with 90+ dental offices in 12 states, generating $115M+ in annual revenue. Spearheaded financial reporting, treasury, financial planning/analysis, general accounting, AP, payroll, procurement, revenue cycle, and strategic initiatives. Established structure, streamlined processes, and set the stage for future growth to help the company navigate a post-COVID business reality. Managed a team of 3 direct reports and up to 50 indirect reports.

  • Led the annual budget process and developed periodic forecasting to provide data-driven insights for sound decision-making.
  • Developed ad hoc reporting, a monthly dashboard, board decks, doctor bonus and compensation plans, a 3-year strategic plan, and directed a 13-week and 14-month rolling cash flow.
  • Fostered banking relationship to secure favorable line-of-credit and debt-servicing plans and negotiated terms for liquidity.
  • Implemented risk management best practices, working with insurance brokers to ensure appropriate coverage, optimized the claims process, and increased cash controls.
  • Managed the real estate manager in the strategic negotiation and management of leases for the dental practices.

Accomplishments

  • Changed perception of finance as a siloed business function and cost center to be regarded as a trusted partner to the CEO.
  • Secured a $750K refund in overcharges from the operating bank, following in-depth analysis of the bank’s fee structure.
  • Initiated a transition to a new POS system and negotiated a $200K annual cost savings with the bank.
  • Centralized claims processing, increasing the velocity and quality of claims and improving cash conversion.

Vice President, Finance (2020 – 2022)

Recruited to lead the accounting and finance department and hold fiduciary responsibility to ensure the organization’s financial health and create a roadmap for revenue growth. Sought-after by the C-suite for financial clarity into business performance to facilitate value-based decision-making. Provided operational structure and consistency to navigate the effects of the pandemic. Implemented streamlined, repeatable processes, and built a high-performance finance team with 4 direct reports and 15 indirect reports.

  • Overcame a challenging business culture and built relationships with the C-suite to enhance effectiveness of the senior leadership team.
  • Directed the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process, delivering full financials at each office and corporate consolidations.
  • Maintained relationships with national vendors, including Henry Schein to optimize and reduce expenses, resolve payment issues, and improve service levels.
  • Provided financial due diligence on potential acquisitions, analyzing data to provide executive leadership with sound information.

Accomplishments

  • Built an exceptional procurement team to lead strategic vendor negotiations, which resulted in savings of $500K to $1M in the first year with continued YOY savings.
  • Negotiated approximately $200K in savings for dental office leases/rental renewals and divested 10 under-performing offices.
  • Established a preferred lab vendor designation and brokered pricing on clinical equipment to secure optimal financing terms.
  • Successfully secured unqualified audit opinions for 4 years (2018 – 2021) and 5 reports, which included the integration of 25 acquisitions into the company and annual 401(k) benefit plan audits. Led the completion of annual tax returns.
  • Saved $50K annually through analysis of cyber insurance policy providers and strategic negotiations with a new provider.
  • Created streamlined processes to reduce the monthly close from 22 to 10 business days.
  • Helped guide the accounting and finance department through COVID-19 restrictions and preserved 80% of the furloughed team.

SENIORWELL GROUP | Buffalo Grove, IL  2019

Vice President – Finance

Brought on board to turnaround the financial performance of this private equity backed healthcare company, operating in the red and managed accounting and finance functions, including the analysis of trends, costs, and profit results. Directed and managed a team of 10 and oversaw accounting, financial reporting, cash flow, modeling and forecasting, budgeting, AR, payroll, and revenue cycle.

  • Rapidly identified drastic issues with revenue cycle and engaged a consultant to reestablish financial performance of the company.
  • Implemented policies, systems, and operational best practices to improve risk management through increased cash controls and revenue and improved AR. Created analytical reports to measure results and increase visibility into business performance.

Accomplishments

  • Generated $250K+ in annual cost savings by restructuring the fleet vehicle program and optimizing workflow.
  • Accelerated revenue cycle process, leveraging sophisticated reporting tools and improved process management.

PHYSICIANS IMMEDIATE CARE LLC | Rosemont, IL  2016 – 2018

Controller

Directed all financial and accounting systems for this $100M private equity backed urgent care company with 43 clinics and 6 JV partnerships, leading financial reporting, annual tax returns, AP, and payroll, while directing and managing a team of 3.

Accomplishments

  • Professionalized and operationalized the company to improve clarity and minimize cash control risk.
  • Generated $400K+ in annual cost savings by restructuring reporting and maximizing use of technology.
  • Selected and implemented a travel/expense software which automated processes and increased internal controls.
  • Reduced reliance on temporary staff saving $80K annually by automating vendor data processes.
  • Collaborated with external audit and tax accountants, bankers, and attorneys to ensure adherence to compulsory filings.

NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE | Chicago, IL   2011 – 2015

Finance Manager, Northwestern Medical Group (2013 – 2015)

Project Manager, Finance, Northwestern Memorial HealthCare (2011 – 2013)

Promoted to Finance Manager to set the financial direction and support 26 multi-specialty clinics of the physician’s group, generating $150M annually through precise reporting and data analysis of monthly and year-to-date results.

UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES, INC. | Northbrook, IL   2006 – 2011

Finance Manager (2008 – 2011) | Lead Internal Auditor (2006 – 2008)

Supported operating groups by created customized reports for 11 service lines, improving financial analysis of actual to budget numbers. Key member of the Business Unit Restructuring team that developed a streamlined monthly reporting package.

EDUCATION

INDIANA UNIVERSITY | Kelley School of Business | Bloomington, IN, 2002

BS in Accounting , BS in Finance,  BS in International Studies, Business (3 Degrees/4 Years)

Certified Public Accountant

 

 

 

Gary V. New York, NY

Gary V.

Financial Expert

Highlights: Start-ups in the SAAS, FinTech, and Consumer Goods industries

PREVIOUSLY AT

Gary is available for hire

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Gary is an innovative finance and accounting professional with experience primarily in business, accounting, financial systems, planning, business planning systems, IT process integration, team building, and extensive cross-functional collaboration with internal and external resources.

Skills: Revenue Recognition , Data Analysis, Audit Remediation, FP&A, SAP

Work Experience

 Consulting                                                                                 April 2017 – Present

  • Led finance organization as Director of Finance and Transformation at a FinTech company leading initiatives to enhance financial processes, technology, and strategies.   Enhanced utilization of existing finance and accounting technology stack, optimizing workflows, and driving efficiencies to the support the company’s growth.
  • Served as controller for a dual use AI SaaS startup leading the controllership function, playing a crucial role in financial management in handling the budgeting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards.   Additionally, contributing to building out the FP&A function and strategic decision-making by providing valuable financial insights to support the company’s growth.
  • Assisted a Fortune 100 company in audit remediation by implementing corrective actions, improving internal controls, and ensuring compliance with regulations.  Strengthened the company’s financial processes ensuring accurate and transparent financial reporting, and mitigated risks identified through the audit.
  • Led the controller and FP&A functions at family office overseeing budgeting and financial reporting.  Optimized the Finance and Accounting functions for the family’s portfolio companies.

 KPMG                                                                                          May 1991 – April 2017

 Associate Director, Finance and Accounting

  • Led the Northeast Engagement Management Coordinator(EMC) team (Audit, TAX, and Advisory). Team consisted of 40 team members and 6 direct reports.
  • Served as a key subject matter resource in the firm’s engagement accounting and risk management systems, within SAP (CRM, Engagement, Management and Billing) and CLEAS (Client/Engagement Acceptance and Set-up).
  • Served as a key liaison between senior leadership and the EMC organization to address engagement accounting issues. Met regularly with business leaders, including area practice leaders and area risk leaders.
  • Developed the strategies for our finance team through active involvement in the roll out of National Firm wide initiatives. Played a key role in the design and implementation of new procedures, special projects and strategies.
  • Developed and implemented standard operating procedures and processes for engagement, quality, and risk management within the Finance and Accounting organization.
  • Managed, planned and forecasted the team’s budget and yearly compensation packages.
  • Oversaw the recruiting, hiring, learning, development, mentoring and counseling of EMC staff and ensuring compliance with the Firm’s goal setting and performance management programs. Motivating the team to excellence and operational efficiency.
  • Participated in the Global Risk Compliance review. Led the Northeast Engagement Management Coordinator(EMC) team (Audit, TAX, and Advisory). Team consisted of 40 team members and 6 direct reports. Served as a key subject matter resource in the firm’s engagement accounting and risk management systems, within SAP (CRM, Engagement, Management and Billing) and CLEAS (Client/Engagement Acceptance and Set-up).
  • Served as a key liaison between senior leadership and the EMC organization to address engagement accounting issues Developed the strategies for our finance team through active involvement in the roll out of National Firm wide initiatives.
  • Played a key role in the design and implementation of new procedures, special projects and strategies. Developed and implemented standard operating procedures and processes for engagement, quality, and risk management within the Finance and Accounting organization. Managed, planned and forecasted the team’s budget and yearly compensation packages.
  • Oversaw the recruiting, hiring, learning, development, mentoring and counseling of EMC staff and ensuring compliance with the Firm’s goal setting and performance management programs. Motivating the team to excellence and operational efficiency. Developed Project Management Engagement setup template to facilitate the implementation of Sabrix.
  • Drove vision and strategy benchmarking for the existing roles within EMC organization. Supported the growth and career development of junior resources by serving as an informal mentor and, as assigned, a formal Counselor to my direct reports, providing them with regular career and professional development guidance. Member of the SAP testing team for the deployment and implementation of the new firm ERP system. Participated in the Global Risk Compliance review,

Manager, Finance and Accounting

  • Supported and assisted the NE Audit practice in exceeding their plans and cash goals.
  • Developed best practices for NYC Metro Audit and NY FS Audit reporting i.e. G/L reporting.

Senior Associate, Finance and Accounting

  • Performed and managed department project management office (PMO) functional tasks and performed day-to-day contract management activities

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree, Accounting, Fordham University, 1996