Position Overview:
Korn Ferry is seeking a VP Finance & Controller for our client, one of the fastest growing business units of a multi-billion-dollar global manufacturer and solutions provider known for delivering innovative, energy-efficient technologies for customers across residential and commercial markets.
This is a pivotal leadership role reporting directly to the Division GM and functionally to the Segment CFO, with oversight of Finance, Pricing, and IT.
As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, this role will lead an overall team of 25+ and serve as a strategic partner in driving business performance across North America. The position oversees all financial reporting for the division, including monthly close, forecasting, analysis, and long-range planning. It also provides indirect leadership to a shared services team. Responsibilities include developing annual operating plans through a collaborative, bottom-up approach and continuously monitoring short-term business trends, ensuring alignment with company policies.
This is a hands-on, high-impact opportunity to shape financial strategy, champion the adoption of Power BI, and influence cross-functional initiatives in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment.
Location:
West Columbia, SC area (hybrid position - 4 days in office)
Measurements of Success:
The VP's goal is to increase the division’s profitability as well as sales; and to bring consistency and standardization to forecast and closing accuracy.
Key Responsibilities:
Partner with the General Manager and Business Unit Leadership to develop and execute strategies across product, manufacturing, distribution, operations, sales, and marketing that align with key business priorities.
Analyze financial and operational data to support strategic planning and decision-making, providing insights that shape the business strategy.
Collaborate with sales, marketing, and operations teams to drive growth initiatives, including business case development for HRP-specific product programs.
Establish and maintain robust financial processes to ensure compliance with GAAP, SOX, and internal accounting policies.
Ensure timely and accurate financial close and forecasting processes in alignment with corporate policies.
Oversee financial operations and cost analysis for the company’s South Carolina-based manufacturing plant.
Monitor and analyze gross margin, product line profitability, inventory performance, pricing effectiveness, and SKU rationalization.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives across finance, pricing, and IT functions to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Manage and develop the Finance, Pricing, and IT teams, fostering a high-performance culture.
Champion the adoption of Power BI across the organization, designing and enhancing dashboards and reports to improve financial visibility and enable data-driven decision-making.
Oversee credit policy adherence and ensure proactive cash flow forecasting to support business needs.
Lead the development of the Annual Operating Plan and Long-Range Strategic Plan.
Qualifications:
15+ years of progressive experience in accounting and finance, including 5+ years in a leadership role.
Proven background in both FP&A and Accounting within the manufacturing sector, with experience at both corporate and plant levels.
Full P&L ownership for a business unit, division, or plant.
Strong commercial acumen with the ability to translate financial data into strategic business insights in a fast-paced environment.
Advanced Power BI skills for building interactive dashboards and driving data-informed decision-making.
Proficient with ERP systems; SAP experience is a strong asset.
Results-driven, hands-on leader with a track record of performance in dynamic, performance-based settings.
Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and develop high-performing teams.
Skilled in managing complex business processes and adapting to evolving market conditions across North America.
Effective in matrixed organizations, with strong cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities.
Experience with mergers and acquisitions is an asset.
Strong analytical and presentation skills; able to simplify complex topics for operational impact.
Committed to continuous improvement and process simplification.
Organizationally savvy with the ability to influence at all levels.
Positive, balanced demeanor with executive presence and leadership potential to advance to a VP of Finance role.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance;
MBA, CMA or CPA or equivalent preferred.
SE# 510729668