Director of Finance- Aerospace Manufacturing

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'll 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 culture of accountability and continuous improvement

Essential Qualifications

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

• Competitive salary range: $180 - $210K
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

• 401(k)
• Paid Sick and Vacation Leave

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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.