Director of Finance- Aerospace Manufacturing

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.

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.

$/yr - $/yr

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.

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• CPA or MBA strongly preferred
• Hands‑on experience with DCAA audits and FAR Part 31 cost allowability
• Quick Books 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: Phoenix, Arizona
• Work Arrangement: In‑office position only (no remote work)
• Travel: Minimal; occasional travel to Mexico operations may be required

• Competitive salary range: $180,000 - $210,000
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Sick and Vacation Leave

Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, 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.