Chief Financial Officer

WAWONA FROZEN FOODS

ABOUT THIS COMPANY

Founded in 1963, Wawona Frozen Foods specializes in the growing and freezing of fresh fruit. As the pioneer in the frozen fruit industry, the company is an industry leader, producing many of America's favorite fruits including fresh frozen peaches, strawberries, pears, plums, and unique mixed fruit blends.

Building on its family heritage and upholding the highest standards of food safety with refreshing taste, texture, and natural sweetness, Wawona's fresh frozen fruit is as close to nature as possible. You can always count on Wawona for quality, consistency, and excellent service.

ABOUT THIS ROLE

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) will provide strategic leadership and oversight of all financial, accounting, IT, and business intelligence functions across Wawona Frozen Foods. Reporting to the CEO, the CFO plays a key role in ensuring financial health, managing risk, supporting capital financing, and optimizing operational performance. This executive role provides direct support to ownership, the Board of Directors, and senior leadership while driving long-term business planning and financial strategies.

DUTIES INCLUDE

Lead and manage finance, business intelligence, IT, and accounting teams.

Oversee month-end close, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.

Lead annual budgeting, strategic planning, and long-term forecasting.

Develop capital budgeting and rolling 12-month forecasting processes.

Advise on financial planning, cash flow projections, and capital structure optimization.

Ensure timely and accurate grower payments.

Maintain a strong risk and compliance framework across the company.

Build and manage relationships with senior management, auditors, banks, counsel, and insurance partners.

Document and proceduralize all finance-related processes.

Ensure robust internal controls to protect company assets.

Present financial performance updates at Board meetings.

Oversee product costing and pricing systems.

Develop and maintain KPIs and financial metrics.

Manage tax strategies and oversee audits with external auditors.

Ensure secure and cost-effective IT services and enterprise software.

Lead automation and process improvement initiatives to reduce non-value-add work.

Provide tactical financial solutions to unexpected challenges.

Work with leadership to build financial competency across the organization.

Regulatory, Safety & Compliance

Actively participate in Wawona Frozen Foods' Safety Program.

Comply with GMP, HACCP, Food Safety, Food Defense, and SQF policies and procedures.

Take action on safety, quality, or compliance concerns.

REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; MBA and / or CPA required.

Minimum 10 years of progressive finance or accounting experience with proven leadership.

Strong background in food manufacturing highly preferred.

Experience with Microsoft Dynamics, Navision, or Business Central.

Executive presence with proven ability to interact with investors, boards, and all organizational levels.

Strong communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.

Skilled in delegation, organization, and time management.

Proficiency in Microsoft 365, Adobe Suite, DocuSign, and related systems.

Flexible and adaptable to fast-paced, evolving environments.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

LOCATION

Primarily based in our corporate office.

BENEFITS

Competitive executive-level salary and bonus structure

Employee Assistance Program

Paid Sick Leave

Wawona Wednesdays, seasonal appreciation events, Employee of the Month recognition

Company apparel (t-shirts, hats), plus other executive benefits

WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY

Wawona Frozen Foods invests in its people, offering training, resources, and opportunities for professional and personal growth. We value long-term careers, innovation, and contributions from every team member.

We pride ourselves on collaboration, problem-solving, and a culture of grit and support. Our legacy is built on people and relationships, and we are committed to delivering the best products to our customers while fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

PHYSICAL AND / OR MENTAL DEMANDS

Work primarily in an office setting; some time in production areas with exposure to noise, cold, wet / humid conditions, and moving machinery.

Sit, stand, walk, and communicate regularly; occasional lifting of up to 40 lbs.

Use of computer and office equipment required daily.

Must wear PPE and follow dress code in production areas.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Applicants must be fully authorized to work in the U.S. and physically present in the U.S.

Wawona Frozen Foods is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, gender, age, color, religion, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected factor.

NOTICE TO RECRUITERS, EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES, AND / OR VENDORS :

Wawona Frozen Foods does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies without a signed agreement. Unsolicited submissions will not obligate Wawona Frozen Foods to pay referral fees.