Chief Financial Officer

About The Job

Fractional Chief Financial Officer (Consulting): Hybrid
Salary: Based on experience
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About Morreale Communications

Founded in 2006, Morreale Communications has grown to become a leading strategic communications agency working at the intersection of business, media, policy and people. Driven by the desire to empower our clients by elevating their voices during times of change, crisis and opportunity, Morreale offers an integrated suite of solutions. Core capabilities include strategic message development, stakeholder engagement, branding and creative strategy, digital & social communications, diversity & inclusion, policy strategy and media relations. Morreale is a certified WBE/WBENC agency bringing unrivaled experience from a wide range of backgrounds to provide deep insights and counsel to our clients.

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About The Role

‍Our team enjoys summer hours, professional development opportunities and additional perks throughout the year. Morreale Communications works out of a custom office in Rosemont, IL. The office is within walking distance to shopping, dining and special events with free parking and transportation from the CTA Blue Line. While we will continue to offer a flexible work schedule, we are only considering candidates who are enthusiastic about being in the office to collaborate with their colleagues 2-3 days per week.

Morreale Communications is an award-winning woman-owned public relations firm with a specialty focus in the areas of Transportation, Infrastructure & Mobility, Health & Wellness, Energy & Utilities and Public Affairs.

We pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, innovation, and integrity in all aspects of our operations. As we continue to grow and expand, we are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to join our dynamic team.‍

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Position Overview

This executive role is key to supporting growth, leading financial operations, and driving long-term success across our business. The Fractional CFO will play a pivotal role in driving the financial strategy and operations of a well-established and growing female-owned public relations firm in Chicago. Reporting to the firm’s founder and Chief Executive Officer, you will be responsible for maintaining financial integrity, implementing best practices, and providing strategic financial guidance to support our continued growth and success. This person must be grounded in data-based metrics to analyze and report on current financial status while driving the leadership's vision for growth and expansion.

Priorities (first 30 days):

• Identify opportunities to maximize profit and reduce costs for the remainder of 2025
• Review current employee utilization targets and overall workforce capacity and set goals for 2026. Make recommendations to leverage existing resources and maximize productivity
• Project health: project review to ensure we are maximizing profit. Establish best practice and train project leads on how to properly manage and maximize project budgets
• Establish staff hourly rate sheets
• Support a PSA/ERP transition
  
  

Priorities (first 60 days):

• Project health: project review to ensure we are maximizing profit. Establish best practice and train project leads on how to properly manage and maximize project budgets
• Review accounting process and procedures, make recommendations for updates and improvements
  
  

Priorities (first 90 days +):

• Identify cost saving measures to reduce overhead and maximize profit
• Build 2026 forecast
• Establish 2026 annual operating budget
  

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Key Responsibilities

• Financial Analysis and Reporting:
• Make recommendations to optimize accounting team including the functions of payroll, invoicing, accounts payable, accounts receivable and insurance
• Conduct in-depth financial analysis to drive informed decision-making and strategic planning
• Meet regularly with CEO to report on financial statements, forecasting and strategic financial planning
• Prepare accurate and timely financial reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual statements
• Analyze financial data and trends to identify areas for improvement and cost-saving opportunities
• Present financial reports and analysis to senior management and stakeholders
• Work with project leads to routinely review project scope and budget to drive project health and budget goals
• Coordinate with contracted CPA on tax filings and reports
• Budgeting and Forecasting:
• Work with CEO to develop and manage annual budget that aligns with company growth plan and financial goals
• Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with department heads to develop comprehensive budgets aligned with organizational goals
• Monitor budget performance and variance analysis, providing insights and recommendations for corrective actions as needed
• Develop rolling forecasts to support long-term financial planning and decision-making
• Meet regularly with project leads on project forecasting and planning to ensure well-thought-out staffing and hiring plans that support existing client workloads and new client growth
• Internal Controls and Compliance:
• Establish and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
• Conduct regular audits and risk assessments to identify control weaknesses and implement appropriate measures to mitigate risks
• Stay abreast of changes in accounting standards and regulations, ensuring compliance and adherence to best practices
• Team Leadership and Development:
• Provide leadership and guidance to the finance team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Mentor and develop staff members, empowering them to achieve their full potential and contribute effectively to the organization's objectives
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes professional growth and development
• Establish and manage KPI’s and bonus packages for executive leadership
  
  

Position Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field; MBA or CPA preferred
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in financial analysis and control roles, preferably in a large organization
• Collaborator that enjoys mentoring and the development and implementation of process and procedures to advance financial objectives
• Deep understanding of financial principles, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements
• Proven track record of implementing best practices and driving process improvements
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data and trends
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey financial information effectively to diverse audiences
• Proficiency in financial software and ERP systems; advanced Excel skills required
• Demonstrated leadership experience with a focus on team development and performance management
• Must have the ability to work a hybrid schedule in the Morreale office 2-3 days per week
  
  

Joining Morreale Communications offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic and collaborative environment. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for finance and a drive for excellence, we invite you to apply for the CFO position and become part of our dedicated team. ‍

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How to Apply

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