Senior Finance Leader - Aerospace Manufacturing Sector #1508

We are partnering with a premier aerospace manufacturing organization in their search for a Senior Finance Leader to oversee their Phoenix-based financial operations.

This ISO 9001 and AS 9100D certified manufacturer is a worldwide authority in pressure, temperature, and liquid flow switches and sensors, supplying aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors globally. Operating with a family-owned ethos, the organization emphasizes stability, continuous growth, and forward-thinking innovation.

This Senior Finance Leader position represents the top-tier accounting executive accountable for financial reporting, regulatory compliance, expense management, and strategic fiscal planning spanning both Phoenix and Mexico facilities. With direct accountability to the CFO and Board of Directors, this executive will manage accounting operations, budget development, forecasting activities, financial statement preparation, tax compliance, and financial governance while advancing the organization's expansion goals.

This opportunity requires a tactical leader capable of executing controller-level duties while delivering strategic financial counsel. Direct supervision includes a Controller, Senior Cost Accountant, Accounts Payable Clerk, and Accounts Receivable Clerk, with responsibility for developing additional accounting staff as organizational needs expand.

The successful candidate will demonstrate extensive aerospace/defense manufacturing expertise, comprehensive government contracting familiarity, and documented success in manufacturing financial leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage 13-week cash flow forecasting, working capital, and liquidity
• Lead, mentor, and develop finance team while fostering culture of accountability and continuous improvement
• Prepare GAAP-compliant financial statements with comprehensive operational reporting
• Oversee ERP standard cost system and drive margin improvements through variance analysis
• Maintain DCAA audit readiness and coordinate external customer audits
• Provide pricing support for RFQs and long-term contracts
• Own monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes
• Manage relationships with external CPA firms, banks, and insurance providers
• Lead annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning for multi-site operations

Requirements

Education & Professional Background:

• Minimum 4 years as a Controller or similar senior position in aerospace/defense manufacturing
• 10+ years of progressive accounting leadership experience
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required

Technical Requirements:

• Strong working knowledge of GAAP, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting best practices
• Deep expertise in standard costing, labor burden, and WIP valuation for machined/assembled parts
• Advanced proficiency in financial modeling and Excel (Pivot tables, lookup functions)
• Experience with entity consolidation financial reporting
• Advanced user of ERP systems (Syteline, Epicor, Oracle, or equivalent)

Professional Capabilities:

• Experience managing both local and international operations (Mexico) preferred
• Demonstrated success leading, developing, and retaining finance and accounting teams
• Hands-on approach with ability to execute controller-level tasks while providing strategic oversight
• 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

Additional Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with shop-floor data collection systems
• Power BI experience
• Familiarity with aerospace certifications and compliance requirements
• CPA or MBA strongly preferred
• Prior success implementing paperless AP/AR systems
• QuickBooks experience
• Hands-on experience with DCAA audits and FAR Part 31 cost allowability

Location & Work Environment

• Travel: Minimal; occasional travel to Mexico operations may be required
• Work Arrangement: In-office position only (no remote work)
• Location: Phoenix, Arizona

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

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• Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
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• Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
• Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
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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. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.