Financial Planning Chief

JAMES PHILLIPS

Fort Myers, Florida

516-***-**** ****************@*****.*** www.linkedin.com/in/jamesphillipsnyc

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Results-driven Finance Professional with over 20 years of experience delivering measurable financial growth, operational excellence, and strategic leadership. Proven track record of enhancing profitability through effective cost management, innovative financial systems, and robust risk mitigation strategies. Renowned for building and leading high-performance finance teams, optimizing capital allocation, and driving sustainable business growth across diverse industries. Adept at navigating complex negotiations, securing financing, and achieving transformative business outcomes.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Global Business CFO

Deloitte, New York, NY. July 2017 – Present

Trusted advisor to the CEO and COO for a billion dollar business line, guiding strategic decision-making and financial planning.

Achieved 9% CAGR in revenue growth and significant cost reductions through strategic financial planning and analysis (FP&A).

Designed and implemented a 3-year global business improvement plan, driving a 10% revenue increase during the pandemic.

Built and mentored a high-performing finance team, fostering a collaborative, accountable, and productive work culture.

Led a team in developing financial dashboards featuring AI-powered forecasting tools, providing actionable insights and interactive visual graphs.

Developed data-driven financial models that influenced global strategy and exceeded business objectives.

Chief Financial Officer

FDR Services, Hempstead, NY. May 2016 – July 2017

Led a financial turnaround of a family-owned business, securing $50M in financing, including term loans and credit lines, to drive strategic growth initiatives.

Negotiated the successful sale of underperforming assets, reducing costs while retaining 65% of associated revenue.

Collaborated with local government to secure tax abatements, resulting in substantial long-term savings.

Designed a wealth management plan for the founding family, aligning investments with long-term financial goals.

CFO / COO

Pier59 Studios / Art and Fashion Group, New York, NY. August 2011 – May 2016

Drove financial transformation, turning a holding company from annual losses to over $3M in profit within two years, with sustained growth thereafter.

Successfully acquired and integrated a model and talent agency with $10M projected revenue, enhancing the portfolio’s value.

Identified and closed an underperforming entity, saving $800K annually.

Led strategic asset protection and estate planning for a family office with global holdings.

Chief Financial Officer

Art Partner, New York, NY. June 2007 – August 2011

Developed and executed a comprehensive ten-year financial plan for a top global creative agency, which involved international tax planning and successfully changing the owner's residency status, leading to the optimization of overall financial operations.

Expanded operations into Asia-Pacific and Spain, leveraging financial models and market analysis to drive international growth.

Implemented a multi-currency FX trading strategy, generating over $1M in profits.

Overhauled financial systems, saving hundreds of hours in billing and closing processes.

Director of Worldwide Financial Operations

The NPD Group, Port Washington, NY. April 2006 – June 2007

Managed a $50M budget, optimizing capital planning and securing favorable financing terms.

Established a Business Unit Accountants team, empowering departments to meet aggressive growth targets, contributing to 15% revenue growth.

Designed and implemented a company-wide forecasting and budgeting process.

General Manager / Controller

Crossroad Publishing Company, New York, NY. June 2002 – April 2006

Reduced expenses by 18% through supplier negotiations and procurement optimizations.

Increased profits by 15% by leading an e-commerce initiative and revamping distribution operations.

Enhanced operational efficiency by streamlining company-wide processes.

EDUCATION

Nassau Community College, New York — Accounting and Finance

State University of New York, Old Westbury, New York — Business Administration and Finance

AFFILIATIONS & LEADERSHIP

Member, Association of Finance Professionals

Leader, Inclusion Council of New York for People with Disabilities and Allies

Mentor, NextGen Leaders Program

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