Vice President of Finance

EWI is the leader in materials sciences and the go to experts that many of the country’s largest and most innovative organizations call to assist with their most difficult assignments.  Our business success relies on strong execution and continuous improvement – driven by the expertise and teamwork of our employees.  We are always searching for exceptional candidates to join the EWI team and be a part of our forward-thinking, innovative, best-in-class organization!  We have a rich history in the community and are and are proud to call Columbus our home. 

Reporting to the President & CEO, the VP of Finance serves as advisor and business partner to the Executive Team, EWI’s Affiliate Partners and Board of Directors in the development and execution of effective financial planning and operations.  The VP of Finance tracks and provides timely reports of financial metrics to management team to support business decisions and strategic direction.  This person will provide management and leadership to the finance and project controls teams of the business in support of the strategic and operational goals. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Financial Strategy: 

• Exercises agility to drive profitability.  Develops, recommends and executes short- and long-term financial strategies that support achievement of the stated outcomes of the Corporate Strategic Plan
• Negotiate and execute all major financial transactions
• Provide overall strategic guidance with proactive involvement with plans, projects, and programs of the business.

Financial Management:

• Ensure the effectiveness and integrity of all accounting and financial reporting systems and compliance obligations are fulfilled
• Ensure the integrity and efficiency of capital, cash, receivables and payables management
• File and pay key performance indicators and metrics that appraise operating performance in terms of profitability, performance against budget and other matters relating to the fiscal soundness, legal compliance and operating effectiveness

People Management:  

• Undertake workforce planning; implement Talent Management initiatives to engage, support, and develop employees; make effective and appropriate hiring and termination decisions; coach and provide regular performance feedback to staff; manage and document performance issues and act when necessary
• Ensure the performance management program is executed in a consistent and fair manner
• Create a work environment that supports and aligns with our core values and the desired culture of the organization
• Recognize managers and employees for business contributions and successful execution of set business priorities; support the on-going development of team members; make compensation decisions consistent with the compensation program

Controls:  

• Establish the effectiveness and integrity of enterprise and business unit controls to safeguard assets; ensure that all contractual relationships are properly documented, controlled and obligations are met; guide major contract negotiations

Budget: 

• Lead preparation of operating budget; provide monthly review of financial performance against objectives with Executive Team and Associates
• Support the development and tracking of key performance metrics for the organization and each business unit.

External Relationships: 

• Directs external relationships with banks, accountants, attorneys and state agencies; represent the organization as requested by the President/CEO

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Outstanding working knowledge of accounting principles related to GL, U.S. GAAP, financial statement preparation, and financial closeout monthly and year-end
• Proficient with ERP software platforms to manage business
• Adept with developing dashboards, KPIs and analytics in support of business operational excellence
• Strong computer skills - MS Office, Salesforce, as well as data visualization and reporting platforms such as Power BI Application
• Proficient with complex Excel spreadsheets with formulas
• Proficient with establishing and maintaining internal control processes
• Strong administrative and people management skills to set direction, assess talent needs and select and develop talent as supervisor of a team of diverse professionals
• Positive attitude and eagerness to take on management challenges and quick to learn new skills
• Ability to manage professional relationships with the legal community and legal matters
• Anticipate future consequences and trends accurately; has a broad knowledge and perspective to evaluate multiple aspects of complex issues to create competitive and breakthrough strategies and plans
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills to handle multiple tasks within a high-volume, dynamic work environment
• Ability to take an independent stance and challenge the CEO and other executives/managers while maintaining respect and confidence
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and employees

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or similar field
• CPA designation is required

EXPERIENCE:

• Twelve (12) to fifteen (15) years of corporate financial leadership
• Ten (10) years of management responsibility of accounting/finance teams
• Experience with treasury and cash management
• Experience securing capital considered a plus

EOE/M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status

 Accommodations

Individuals who need reasonable accommodations under the ADA in order to participate in the search and/or application process should contact Human Resources at (614) 688-5000.