Our client has Retained The Carlisle Group to conduct a search for a VP of Finance. Our client is a very well-respected Property & Casualty Insurance organization.

This is an executive level management position responsible for the overall operations of the Finance Department through the exercise of professional accounting skills applied to various functions including financial planning, quarterly closings, and preparation of management information that enables leadership to successfully execute on business strategies.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Responsible for the preparation of company financial reports in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and corporate requirements.
• Prepares and disseminates other periodic financial and operating information and analyses as requested by management, corporate and CEO.
• Responsible for the preparation of monthly/quarterly divisional plan versus actual variance reports, balance sheet and operating statement account analysis and cash flow analysis.
• Responsible for cash management analysis and reporting. Includes responsibility for maintaining cash management relationship with bank. Periodic review of existing and new services offered on cash accounts and managing the cost of these services.
• Responsible for maintenance, integrity and accuracy of all general and subsidiary ledgers and for control of chart of accounts.
• Works with external auditors and provides needed information for the annual subsidiary and benefit plan audits.
• Responsible for accurate monthly/quarterly closing in accordance with corporate deadlines. Responsible for monthly, quarterly and adhoc reporting to corporate.
• Responsible for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and documenting policies and procedures for an efficient and effective system of internal accounting control to assure the integrity of accounting information and the safeguarding of company assets. Responsible for monthly/quarterly internal account review and documentation.
• Responsible for the planning, coordination and preparation of divisional, corporate and consolidated plans. Provides technical assistance to managers in the preparation of sales, operating, capital and personnel budgets. Responsible for periodic forecast updates.
• Responsible for preparation and documentation of all year-end adjusting, closing and consolidating entries. Also coordinates and/or prepares all year-end account analyses and related worksheets to facilitate the annual independent audit of the company’s financial statements.
• Responsible for the performance and evaluation of various Accounting Department personnel. Makes recommendations regarding the hiring, transferring, promotion and counseling of Accounting Department personnel in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Takes advantage of opportunities for professional growth and continued education.
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality and a professional demeanor in the performance of duties. Keeps the Chief Executive Officer closely advised regarding the performance of duties.
• Performs other duties as required.

Work Experience

• Minimum of 15 years progressive accountancy or finance experience within the Property/Casualty insurance industry. Minimum three (3) years of experience within a publicly traded company.
• Minimum of five (5) years management/supervisory experience.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor Degree in Accounting or Finance from an accredited college or university.

Special Skills & Knowledge

• Solid technology, analytical and management skills with a preference for activities involving accuracy and timeliness.
• Excellent time management skills to meet required deadlines.
• Strong business and financial acumen and ability to present financial items clearly and concisely.
• Leadership skills including business collaboration, people skills, thought leadership, and managerial skills
• Experience with building financial plans and analyzing key performance metrics.
• Ability to communicate, verbally and in writing, with associates, clients and other business contacts. Preference for activities involving accuracy, attention to detail and timely completion.
• Proficient with SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.

Physical Requirements

• Work performed in an office environment including interaction with people and technology while sitting or standing for extended periods of time. The office environment may also include light to moderate noise caused by phones, printers, typing, talking etc.
• Visual ability to read from the computer screen and printed materials and dexterity to use a keyboard and mouse.
• Ability to communicate clearly with clients and associates in person and over the telephone.