Vice President, Finance

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November 2023

THE COMPANY

 Our client is a prominent player in the retail industry, specializing in manufacturing and licensing quality products. With a focus on innovation, quality and brand excellence, this company operates globally, with a significant manufacturing presence in China and a substantial market share in the United States. Their diverse portfolio of brands reflects their commitment to delivering exceptional products to their clients. 

THE OPPORTUNITY

The successful candidate will be responsible for providing visionary leadership and strategic direction to support the company's growth and success. The candidate will work closely with the President, the management team and other stakeholders to execute the company's vision and achieve its financial and business objectives.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Develop and execute comprehensive financial strategies aligned with the company's global objectives.
• Provide strategic insights to support business growth and profitability within the retail sector.
• Oversee global financial operations, managing teams in Montreal, Canada, and the China manufacturing hub, ensuring effective communication and coordination.
• Lead annual budgeting and forecasting processes, collaborating closely with department heads to align financial plans with business goals.
• Monitor budgets and management accounts, investigate, and resolve variances.
• Generate timely and precise financial reports for executive leadership and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with international accounting standards and regulations, within the context of the retail industry.
• Develop and implement strategies to mitigate financial risks associated with currency exchange and international transactions.
• Provide essential financial insights for informed decision-making.
• Collaborate with executive team members to drive overall success in the competitive retail industry.
• Identify opportunities to enhance the finance team structure and processes, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial information.
• Oversee Human Resources, aligning strategies with corporate goals and implementing effective talent management.
• Provide strategic direction for the Information Technology department, ensuring technology initiatives align with business objectives.
• Oversee relationships with independent auditors, managing the audit process efficiently.
• Manage relationships with investors, partners, and banks.
• Present specific financial results and insights/recommendations to the President and the executive committee.
• Create key performance metrics, reports, and tools specific to monitor and inform stakeholders about financial performance.
• Establish and maintain a solid risk management plan tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities.

THE CANDIDATE

We seek a dynamic and globally minded leader for the position, requiring expertise in finance and an understanding operations within the retail industry across international landscapes, including the US, China, and Canada. The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record of executing comprehensive financial strategies, driving operational excellence, and fostering cross-cultural collaboration. Strong leadership in overseeing HR and IT functions, coupled with a deep understanding of retail dynamics, compliance, and financial risk management, is essential. The candidate should be adept at providing strategic insights, optimizing team structures, and contributing to the overall success of an organization on a global scale. 

EXPERIENCE, QUALIFICATIONS and ATTRIBUTES

• Proven track record of at least 10 years of executive leadership experience in retail, manufacturing and/or import business.
• Proven experience managing international financial operations, particularly in the US and in China.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong strategic thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Solid financial acumen and experience in budgeting and financial analysis.
• Visionary leadership with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve excellence.
• Ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. MBA or CPA designation preferred. 

COMPENSATION

A competitive compensation package will be offered. 

 For further information or to discuss your candidacy, please contact: 

Marie-Michelle Larouche                  Talya Tremblay

Human Capital Consultant                 Consultant

Richter Human Capital                         Richter Executive Search  

mlarouche@richter.ca                          ttremblay@richter.ca