Director of Finance

RHH202413

Architecture / Trades

THE COMPANY

Our client is a distinguished design firm noted for its creativity in achieving client goals. That creativity has distinguished their work for fifty years, earning them over 200 awards including the prestigious AIA Michigan Architecture Firm Award and numerous features in the international architectural press. Founded in 1968, they continue to build on their history of design excellence with a talented group of individuals who share a commitment to exceptional service and the highest standards of professional practice. The firm specializes in architecture, planning, interior design, historic preservation and adaptive reuse for corporate offices, mixed-use developments, multi-unit housing, parking structures, retail centers, and higher education facilities. They play a prominent role in the revitalization of The City of Detroit.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Director of Finance will be responsible for and report on strategic and tactical matters as they relate to GAAP, project accounting functions, budget creation and management, cost-benefit analysis, and forecasting. Our client is seeking a solution-minded, hands-on leader who will roll up their sleeves to coach and mentor a team. The Director of Finance prepares and/or directs the preparation of reports, which summarize and forecast business activity and the company’s financial position. The successful candidate will have demonstrated success in the areas of forecasting, budgeting, financial planning and analysis, income, expenses, earnings, cash flow management, and project accounting. The position incorporates essential duties and responsibilities in establishing efficiencies, systems, processes, and procedures. The Director of Finance will instill a sense of empowerment and accountability amongst the team. There also is a dynamic opportunity to assist in the implementation of the company’s new strategic plan.

This position reports directly to the Executive Team with one (1) direct report.

JOB DEFINITION

The ideal candidate will be passionate about the company’s mission and will actively participate both strategically and tactically in the company. Manage all accounting and finance functions, as well as assist with human resources and office administration. This leader must be highly knowledgeable in assisting with continuous refining of the accounts receivable and accounts payable system, including project tracking that streamlines efficiencies. Further, this includes the management of internal and external relationships as necessary to ensure compliance with regulatory and company standards. A strong communicator and skilled financial manager, they will produce thorough financial-status reports for the executive team to help improve operational efficiency and aid in continued optimization. As a value-added partner to the internal team(s), this leader will help elevate the business to the next level with a coach/mentor attitude. Additionally, this role will provide appropriate analysis, insights, and advice to the executive team in a manner that ensures good business decisions are made with timely, accurate, and relevant information.

SKILLS

The Director of Finance will be responsible for day-to-day accounting, direct treasury, audit, tax, real estate and insurance activities as well as maintaining accurate accounting records according to GAAP. They will partner with the Executive Team to provide support on planning initiatives through meaningful financial information planning and analysis.

Works with the Executive Team in the development of financial planning, budgets and business models to determine the prospective cost effectiveness and ROI.
Develop, implement, and execute aggressive but realistic annual plans targeted to increase accounting and finance efficiencies.
Lead financial and accounting efforts as it pertains to proposals, client invoicing, payroll, A/P and A/R.
Create and maintain ongoing reports, including monthly P&L statements, balance sheets and other internal financial reporting.
Interface with CPA firm, benefits consultant, HR consultants and 401K representatives.
Develop and maintain effective, long-term relationships with all internal and external stakeholders, including banking relationships.
Oversees accounts payable and accounts receivable.
Manage financial forecasting and planning processes while monitoring and reporting on the financial performance of the company.
Compile and analyze financial reporting packages, prepare monthly and annual operating budgets, consolidate statements, ensure timely and accurate reporting of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
Provide guidance to Principals on business transactions. Ensure timely and accurate reporting of monthly, quarterly and annual key financial performance indicators (KPI’s).
Track employee compensation and benefits packages.
Manage HR and payroll operations, including benefits administration, employee relations and new hire onboarding.
Analyzes cash flow, cost controls and expenses to guide business leaders.
Investigating and reporting on variance findings related to cash flow to the Executive Team.
Manage financial controls in accordance with the company’s procedures.

BACKGROUND EXPERIENCE

Proficiency with Ajera accounting software is preferred, but not required.
Experience working for a privately held or family business.
Blue collar executive with an owner mentality.
Proven creative problem-solving skills.
Preference will be given to candidates with experience in architecture, construction, trades and related industries.
Minimum of ten years of experience in senior-level finance or accounting positions.
Proven ability in finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles.
Ability to analyze financial data and prepare financial reports, statements, and projections.
Work requires professional written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
An open, honest, and respectful communication style tailored to varied audiences and must be approachable.
Confidence, engagement, proactivity and collaboration are essential.
Stellar work ethic; willing to work hard, in person to get the job done.
Proven ability to demonstrate the highest level of integrity with impeccable analytic and organizational skills.
Ability to adapt, prioritize and react quickly to changes; self-motivated, self-directed, and can handle criticism.
Team player with a sense of humor that knows how to make routine tasks fun.
“Open door” mentality, and likeable.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, Finance, or related discipline is required.

If you have these qualifications and are looking for a challenging career, please submit your Resume using the button below.

Todd Hohauser

CEO & Lead Consultant

Jodi Ellis

Director, Executive Recruitment