VP/Director of Finance

About the role

We are looking for an accomplished finance executive to provide steady leadership for a manufacturing organization on the Michigan Lakeshore. This Long-term Contract position is designed for a hands-on leader who can strengthen financial planning, improve forecast accuracy, and bring greater structure to accounting and compliance activities. The role will guide a sizable finance team, support executive decision-making with reliable analysis, and help create a more disciplined operating rhythm within a defense-focused environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the finance organization by setting direction, building accountability, and supporting the development of a team of approximately 20 professionals.
• Strengthen financial planning and analysis processes by improving budgeting, forecasting, and performance reporting to deliver more dependable business insights.
• Oversee core accounting operations, including month-end close and financial reporting, while reinforcing consistency, accuracy, and timeliness.
• Direct compliance activities in a defense industry setting, ensuring readiness for audits and alignment with applicable regulatory and internal control expectations.
• Evaluate current team capabilities, identify organizational gaps, and recommend restructuring or skill development plans to improve effectiveness.
• Partner with senior leadership to translate financial results into actionable recommendations that support operational and strategic decisions.
• Manage financial consolidation and reporting requirements for a global parent organization, including disciplined support for control-oriented reporting practices.
• Use tools such as Infor Visual ERP, financial consolidation platforms, Power BI, and Excel to enhance reporting visibility and analytical rigor.
• Bring stability to the finance function during the contract period by refining key processes, reinforcing leadership presence, and creating a stronger foundation for long-term success.

Requirements

• Proven experience leading finance and accounting functions at the director or vice president level.
• Strong background in FP&A, including ownership of budgeting, forecasting, cash flow planning, and performance analysis.
• Demonstrated success overseeing accounting operations such as month-end close, financial reporting, and technical accounting matters.
• Prior experience in the aerospace or defense sector, with a clear understanding of compliance expectations and interactions with auditors.
• Ability to lead larger teams, assess organizational effectiveness, and coach managers through change and performance improvement.
• Familiarity with ERP and reporting tools, including Infor Visual ERP, Power BI, and advanced Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of control-focused reporting environments, including consolidation processes and structured compliance frameworks.
• Excellent communication and executive partnering skills, with the ability to present financial information clearly to business leaders.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance.
• Eligibility to enroll in the company 401(k) plan.