VP Finance Recruitment
Find exceptional Vice Presidents of Finance who drive operational excellence, lead high-performing teams, and deliver the financial insights your business needs
Start Your VP Finance SearchOperational Financial Leadership
A Vice President of Finance is the operational backbone of your financial function. While a CFO provides strategic vision, your VP Finance ensures flawless execution—delivering accurate reporting, managing day-to-day operations, building capable teams, and driving process improvements.
Our VP Finance recruitment practice focuses on identifying financial leaders who combine technical excellence with strong operational skills and team leadership capabilities. We understand that owner-managed businesses need VP Finance professionals who are hands-on, adaptable, and committed to building scalable financial operations. For hard-to-find senior talent, our headhunting services can target passive candidates who aren't actively looking.
Core VP Finance Responsibilities
Financial Reporting
Own monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting. Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with accounting standards. Provide management with actionable insights.
Budgeting & Forecasting
Lead annual budgeting process, maintain rolling forecasts, conduct variance analysis, and provide financial guidance to department heads.
Team Leadership
Build, develop, and manage accounting, FP&A, and finance operations teams. Provide mentorship, training, and performance management.
Process Optimization
Streamline financial processes, implement automation, improve efficiency, and establish best practices across the finance function.
Controls & Compliance
Maintain robust internal controls, ensure SOX compliance (if applicable), manage audits, and safeguard financial integrity.
Systems Management
Oversee financial systems including ERP, consolidation tools, and reporting platforms. Drive system implementations and upgrades.
VP Finance vs CFO: Understanding the Difference
VP Finance Focus
- Internal financial operations and execution
- Day-to-day management and oversight
- Financial reporting and analysis delivery
- Team supervision and development
- Process improvement and efficiency
- Systems implementation and management
- Budget and forecast coordination
CFO Focus
- Strategic financial planning and vision
- External relationships (banks, investors, board)
- Capital raising and M&A leadership
- Board and ownership communications
- Business transformation initiatives
- Overall financial strategy development
- Enterprise risk management
Key Insight: Many growing businesses hire a VP Finance before a Chief Financial Officer, or use a VP Finance to complement their CFO. The VP Finance handles operational details while the CFO focuses on strategy. Some organizations have a VP Finance report to the CFO; others have the VP Finance serve as the top financial executive. For mid-sized organizations, a Director of Finance may be the right level before growing into a VP Finance role.
What Makes an Exceptional VP Finance?
Technical Excellence
Strong foundation in accounting principles (GAAP/IFRS), financial reporting, consolidations, and technical accounting. Professional designations (CPA, CA, CMA) typically required.
- Deep knowledge of accounting standards and compliance
- Experience with complex accounting transactions
- Proficiency in ERP systems and financial software
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Leadership & Communication
Proven ability to build and lead teams, with excellent communication skills to present financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
- Team building and talent development capabilities
- Clear, effective communication with all levels
- Collaborative approach to cross-functional work
- Mentoring and coaching mindset
Operational Excellence
Track record of improving processes, implementing controls, driving automation, and scaling finance operations for growth.
- Process optimization and efficiency mindset
- Experience implementing financial systems
- Strong project management capabilities
- Focus on continuous improvement
Owner-Managed Business Fit
Understanding of entrepreneurial environments with ability to work effectively in dynamic, growth-oriented businesses.
- Comfort with hands-on involvement when needed
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing needs
- Entrepreneurial mindset and problem-solving
- Cultural alignment with owner values
Ready to Hire Your Next VP Finance?
Connect with our VP Finance recruitment specialists and find the perfect operational financial leader