WILLIAM T. BEST, C.P.A.
Burlington, ON
*********@*****.*** 905-***-****
Results-oriented, hands on accomplished leader with an inherent ability to see the broad picture as well as a proven record of performance in a high-paced International environment. Strong financial acumen and leadership skills to easily bridge the gap amongst all business units while driving organizational improvements and implementation of best practices.
Demonstrated strength in leading the successful negotiation, funding and integration of strategic acquisitions. Proven track record of developing strategic solutions to business problems. Strong focus on quality, accuracy and timeliness.
A strong communicator and mentor known for motivating staff to peak performance. Excellent interpersonal skills, recognized for capabilities in resolving complex issues in cross-functional areas such as Finance, Sales, HR, Legal, Information Technology, Customer Service, Distribution, and Operations.
Finance
-Revenue and Profit Optimization
-Inventory Management
-Treasury and Cash Management
-Risk Management
-Compensation Strategies
-International Financial Accounting Standards
Operations
-Target Acquisitions
-Manufacturing and Distribution
-Business Systems Implementation
-Customer Relationship Management
Leadership
-Strong Entrepreneurial Skills
-Reorganization and Restructuring
-Merger and Acquisition Integration
-Performance Improvement and Talent Management
-Change management
ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Key member in re-establishing relationship with significant Chinese distribution rights holder. I rebuilt the personal trust required to keep the distribution right without a contract.
Lead the successful defense of a significant patent infringement case.
Key member of the Mergers and Acquisitions Executive Negotiation Team. Strategically targeted and successfully integrated 2 acquisitions within one month of each other resulting in a $1 million gain over book value for the shareholders
Investigated financial inconsistencies in a potential acquisition target and successfully avoided risk and liability for shareholders
Implemented and launched a transportation group analysis, achieving increased distribution flexibility and a savings of $150,000 per year
Created a unique business plan utilizing our new distribution model efficiencies to successfully win sole distribution for Lowes Canada
Responsible for creation of collaborative relationship with a customer avoiding a $200,000 bad debt and turning their company into a profitable sales territory
Lead the organization in a search, review and implementation of a fully integrated MRP software package, resulting in significant administrative savings and enhanced financial data reports
Led and mentored functional teams through significant corporate change enabling smooth transition and engaged employees
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
dormakaba, RCI, Cambridge, ON September 2014 - Present
dormakaba is a multinational public Company listed on the Swiss Exchange (DOKA). dormakaba is a leader in Access Control hardware and programing worldwide. Revenue estimates for Canadian team 2016 are in excess of $ 150,000,000
Director of Finance and Operations
Spearhead the financial stability of the organization; identifying and mitigating business and operational risks. Accountable for regulatory and internal governance; financial and operational aspects of the business including cash management, taxes and tax planning, customer service, distribution, human resources and information technology. My main focus is supporting research and innovation of software and new products to ensure the sustainability of the Corporation.
Key contact of Chinese distribution rights holder. Make trips to China on a regular basis to support this key business relationship. Distribution rights account for 80% of sales.
Accountable for all R&D project management ensuring ROI and market relevance.
Present Financial results to European leadership on regular basis
Foreign exchange risk management strategies
Member of key Non-Finance Operational decision making leadership teams
Built and led an exceptional team of financial professionals
Led consolidation and overall management of acquired installation facility
Accountable for all functions in organization including: Accounting, Human Resources, Credit, Information Technology, and Capital Allocation
Responsible for managing company position and negotiations with regulatory bodies including: Legal and compliance issues around Patents.
Consolidated USA located warehouse back to Canada
Nicholson and Cates Limited, Burlington, ON November 1998 - 2014
Nicholson and Cates is a multi-divisional, privately owned organization that distributes lumber and building products in North America and China. Revenue estimates for 2013 are in excess of $ 100,000,000. Nicholson’s utilized Asset Based Lending.
Chief Financial Officer
Member of key Non-Finance Operational decision making leadership teams
Led consolidation and overall management of acquired production facility
Accountable for all functions in organization including: Accounting, Human Resources, Credit, Information Technology, and Capital Allocation
Responsible for managing company position and negotiations with regulatory bodies including: US Customs, Canada – USA softwood lumber dispute
Launched and managed the Corporate Transportation Group
Implemented financing strategies to prepare the company for growth
Wilson Laboratories Inc., Burlington, ON October 1992 – May 1998
Wilson, formerly a privately owned company, is a leader in Canadian manufacturing and distribution of both Consumer Home and Garden and Commercial Turf Products. Wilson is currently marketing nationally under both C.I.L. and Wilson’s brand names.
Financial Controller
MacGillivray Partners, Hamilton, ON September 1989 – October 1992
Senior Auditor
Responsible for the evaluation of the accuracy and content of financial records and GAAP compliance of clients
EDUCATION:
Chartered Accountant – achieved top 10% in Canada, 1992 U.F.E. results 1992
Honours Bachelor of Business Administration, Brock University 1989