Keller Executive Search
Director of Finance- Aerospace Manufacturing
Keller Executive Search, Phoenix, Arizona, United States, 85003
Director of Finance – Aerospace Manufacturing
Salary range: $180,000 - $210,000
This range is provided by Keller Executive Search. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Our client, a well-established aerospace manufacturing company, is seeking a Director of Finance to join their Phoenix-based operations.
As a global leader in pressure, temperature, and liquid flow switches and sensors, this ISO 9001 and AS 9100D certified company serves aerospace, defense, and industrial markets worldwide. The company maintains a family‑owned culture focused on stability, growth, and innovation.
The Director of Finance will serve as the senior accounting leader responsible for all financial reporting, compliance, cost control, and strategic financial support across Phoenix and Mexico operations. Reporting directly to the CFO and Board of Directors, this role oversees accounting, budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, tax filing, and financial compliance while supporting the company’s continued growth objectives.
This is a hands‑on leadership position that requires someone who can both execute controller‑level responsibilities and provide strategic financial guidance. You will directly manage a team including a Controller, Senior Cost Accountant, Accounts Payable Clerk, and Accounts Receivable Clerk, while also mentoring additional accounting personnel as the team grows.
The ideal candidate brings deep aerospace/defense manufacturing experience, government contracting knowledge, and a proven track record of financial leadership in a manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Own monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes
Prepare GAAP‑compliant financial statements with comprehensive operational reporting
Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long‑term financial planning for multi‑site operations
Manage 13‑week cash flow forecasting, working capital, and liquidity
Oversee ERP standard cost system and drive margin improvements through variance analysis
Provide pricing support for RFQs and long‑term contracts
Maintain DCAA audit readiness and coordinate external customer audits
Manage relationships with external CPA firms, banks, and insurance providers
Lead, mentor, and develop finance team while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
Requirements Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
10+ years of progressive accounting leadership experience
Minimum 4 years as a Controller or similar senior position in aerospace/defense manufacturing
Technical Expertise
Deep expertise in standard costing, labor burden, and WIP valuation for machined/assembled parts
Advanced user of ERP systems (Syteline, Epicor, Oracle, or equivalent)
Advanced proficiency in financial modeling and Excel (Pivot tables, lookup functions)
Strong working knowledge of GAAP, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting best practices
Experience with entity consolidation financial reporting
Core Competencies
Proven ability to lead financial strategy and support executive‑level decision‑making
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with ability to influence and collaborate across departments
Demonstrated success leading, developing, and retaining finance and accounting teams
Hands‑on approach with ability to execute controller‑level tasks while providing strategic oversight
Experience managing both local and international operations (Mexico) preferred
Preferred Qualifications
CPA or MBA strongly preferred
Hands‑on experience with DCAA audits and FAR Part 31 cost allowability
QuickBooks experience
Power BI experience
Prior success implementing paperless AP/AR systems
Experience with shop‑floor data collection systems
Familiarity with aerospace certifications and compliance requirements
Location & Work Environment
Location:
Phoenix, Arizona
Work Arrangement:
In‑office position only (no remote work)
Travel:
Minimal; occasional travel to Mexico operations may be required
Benefits
Competitive salary range: $180 - $210K
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
401(k)
Paid Sick and Vacation Leave
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non‑Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
Commitment to Diversity:
Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.
Reasonable Accommodations:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals.
Compensation Information:
Salary ranges are provided in the job post. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to employees in similar roles.
Compliance with Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws.
Workplace Harassment:
Harassment of any form based on protected categories is prohibited.
E-Verify Participation:
Participation may occur; details provided during the application process.
Privacy and Pay Equity:
California Residents: Privacy policy available on www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information available in the posting or during interview.
Pay equity analyses are conducted in accordance with applicable laws.
State-Specific Information:
Rhode Island: No salary history requests.
Connecticut: Wage range provided upon request.
New Jersey: No salary history inquiries unless voluntarily disclosed.
Veteran Status:
Equal employment opportunities for veterans.
Genetic Information:
No discrimination based on genetic information.
Local Laws:
Compliance with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices.
Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process.
Seniority Level Director
Employment Type Full-time
Job Function Accounting/Auditing
Industries Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing
#J-18808-Ljbffr
This range is provided by Keller Executive Search. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Our client, a well-established aerospace manufacturing company, is seeking a Director of Finance to join their Phoenix-based operations.
As a global leader in pressure, temperature, and liquid flow switches and sensors, this ISO 9001 and AS 9100D certified company serves aerospace, defense, and industrial markets worldwide. The company maintains a family‑owned culture focused on stability, growth, and innovation.
The Director of Finance will serve as the senior accounting leader responsible for all financial reporting, compliance, cost control, and strategic financial support across Phoenix and Mexico operations. Reporting directly to the CFO and Board of Directors, this role oversees accounting, budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, tax filing, and financial compliance while supporting the company’s continued growth objectives.
This is a hands‑on leadership position that requires someone who can both execute controller‑level responsibilities and provide strategic financial guidance. You will directly manage a team including a Controller, Senior Cost Accountant, Accounts Payable Clerk, and Accounts Receivable Clerk, while also mentoring additional accounting personnel as the team grows.
The ideal candidate brings deep aerospace/defense manufacturing experience, government contracting knowledge, and a proven track record of financial leadership in a manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Own monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes
Prepare GAAP‑compliant financial statements with comprehensive operational reporting
Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long‑term financial planning for multi‑site operations
Manage 13‑week cash flow forecasting, working capital, and liquidity
Oversee ERP standard cost system and drive margin improvements through variance analysis
Provide pricing support for RFQs and long‑term contracts
Maintain DCAA audit readiness and coordinate external customer audits
Manage relationships with external CPA firms, banks, and insurance providers
Lead, mentor, and develop finance team while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
Requirements Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
10+ years of progressive accounting leadership experience
Minimum 4 years as a Controller or similar senior position in aerospace/defense manufacturing
Technical Expertise
Deep expertise in standard costing, labor burden, and WIP valuation for machined/assembled parts
Advanced user of ERP systems (Syteline, Epicor, Oracle, or equivalent)
Advanced proficiency in financial modeling and Excel (Pivot tables, lookup functions)
Strong working knowledge of GAAP, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting best practices
Experience with entity consolidation financial reporting
Core Competencies
Proven ability to lead financial strategy and support executive‑level decision‑making
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with ability to influence and collaborate across departments
Demonstrated success leading, developing, and retaining finance and accounting teams
Hands‑on approach with ability to execute controller‑level tasks while providing strategic oversight
Experience managing both local and international operations (Mexico) preferred
Preferred Qualifications
CPA or MBA strongly preferred
Hands‑on experience with DCAA audits and FAR Part 31 cost allowability
QuickBooks experience
Power BI experience
Prior success implementing paperless AP/AR systems
Experience with shop‑floor data collection systems
Familiarity with aerospace certifications and compliance requirements
Location & Work Environment
Location:
Phoenix, Arizona
Work Arrangement:
In‑office position only (no remote work)
Travel:
Minimal; occasional travel to Mexico operations may be required
Benefits
Competitive salary range: $180 - $210K
Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
401(k)
Paid Sick and Vacation Leave
Equal Employment Opportunity and Non‑Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.
Commitment to Diversity:
Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.
Reasonable Accommodations:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals.
Compensation Information:
Salary ranges are provided in the job post. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to employees in similar roles.
Compliance with Laws:
Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws.
Workplace Harassment:
Harassment of any form based on protected categories is prohibited.
E-Verify Participation:
Participation may occur; details provided during the application process.
Privacy and Pay Equity:
California Residents: Privacy policy available on www.kellerexecutivesearch.com.
Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information available in the posting or during interview.
Pay equity analyses are conducted in accordance with applicable laws.
State-Specific Information:
Rhode Island: No salary history requests.
Connecticut: Wage range provided upon request.
New Jersey: No salary history inquiries unless voluntarily disclosed.
Veteran Status:
Equal employment opportunities for veterans.
Genetic Information:
No discrimination based on genetic information.
Local Laws:
Compliance with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices.
Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process.
Seniority Level Director
Employment Type Full-time
Job Function Accounting/Auditing
Industries Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing
#J-18808-Ljbffr