Chief Financial Officer

Chesapeake Search Partners has been exclusively retained by our client in Timonium, MD to conduct a search for a CFO. The Chief Financial Officer is a key executive partner responsible for financial strategy, operational efficiencies, M&A execution, and investor relations. This role requires a growth mindset focused on creating long-term value for all stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have multi-unit andor franchise experience along with a background in capital markets and Mergers & Acquisitions.Key Responsibilities: Financial Strategy & Growth PlanningKey member of the executive leadership team, partnering with all business areas and the board of directors to drive value creationStrategic and financial partner to the Chief Development Officer, leading analysis and underwriting for new site development while continuously improving data-driven site selectionDevelop, execute, and optimize financial strategy by expanding EBITDA margins, identifying growth opportunities, managing capital structure and operation efficiencyLead the exit process, including preparing for a sale, optimizing financial performance, and maximizing investor and management returnsDrive forecasting, budgeting, and financial modeling to support growth, M&A, and capital allocation decisionsOversee capital planning and financial strategyEnhance KPI reportingLeverage data and technology to drive insights, optimize profitability, and support decision-makingIdentify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining operational excellenceAnalyze financial trends and provide actionable recommendations to maximize revenue and profitabilityMergers & AcquisitionsLead financial due diligence, valuation, and integration effortsCollaborate with the executive team on deal structuring, financing arrangements, and post-merger integration strategiesIdentify and assess acquisition targets to accelerate growth and create synergiesAccounting, Compliance & Risk ManagementOversee financial reporting, accounting, audits, and corporate compliance across multiple jurisdictionsManage state-specific tax, payroll, banking, and regulatory requirements for all locationsOversee risk management strategies to safeguard financial stabilityImplement internal financial controls to mitigate risks and prevent fraudMulti-State Financial Operations & Cash Flow ManagementOversee financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital expenditures across all locationsManage cash flow, optimize working capital, and ensure timely franchise royalty and marketing fee paymentsStrengthen cash flow forecasting, treasury management, and vendor negotiationsWork with lenders, investors, and financial institutions to secure funding for growth and expansionFranchisee & Corporate RelationsAct as the primary financial liaison with corporate offices to ensure compliance with franchise financial expectationsOversee royalty payments, advertising fund contributions, and other corporate financial obligationsProvide financial reporting and insights to franchise stakeholders, investors, and executive leadershipLeadership & Team ManagementLead and develop a high-performing finance and accounting teamCollaborate with Directors of Operations and Regional Managers to provide financial insights that drive performance improvementsContinuously improve reporting systems and controls to support future exit or recapitalization strategiesImplement financial training programs for operational leadership to enhance fiscal responsibilityDemonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion that embraces the contributions of all team membersEmbrace a service culture as an empathetic servant leaderStrive to be world class, humorous, inspirational, and memorable in every actionBelieve in and promote the company's core values, business philosophies, core purpose, and brand promiseEducation & Experience:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business (MBA andor CPA preferred)15+ years of financial leadership experience in a multi-unit retail, franchise, fitness, or hospitality environmentProven experience managing multi-state financial operationsStrong knowledge of GAAP, tax regulations, and financial reportingExpertise in franchise finance, private equity, and corporate financial structuringProficiency in financial software (e.g., Great Plains, QuickBooks, NetSuite, or similar platforms)Strategic mindset with strong leadership and communication skillsExcellent oral and written communication, interpersonal, presentation, and facilitation skills with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organizationStrong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlinesDemonstrated ability to collaborate with cross-functional teamsAbility to analyze data and metrics to measure outcomes and make data-driven decisionsAbility to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environmentPlease contact Patrick Fitzgerald at Chesapeake Search Partners to learn more!

Created: 2025-03-02