Client:   NTPLO is a third-party logistics company based in Dublin , Ohio , a suburb of Columbus .   The company was founded in 1969 and acquired by the original ownership team in 1984.   In December of 2000, Pacer International purchased the former Rail Van Global Logistics and formed NTPLO.  

With over $800 million in sales, NTPLO continues to be a leader in the transportation and distribution industry servicing clients in a variety of industries, including: automotive, food, retail, appliances, electronics, paper andlighting.                                                            

Project: The primary objective of this position is to provide visionary leadership, direction, and management within the organizational accounting and finance operations.  The VP Financial Operations will be responsible for managing and developing a staff of more than 100.  These individuals perform various functions within the department including A/R, A/P, Billing, Collections and Payroll. This position will also oversee all aspects of financial reporting, develop budget forecasts, cash flow management, coordinate year-end audit as well as any internal reviews, prepare external banker information and financial presentations.  In addition, the VP Financial Operations will be responsible for evaluating acquisition opportunities, prepare pro forma projections and conduct due diligence of targeted companies as well as perform special projects. 

The Vice President, Financial Operations will ensure that projects are carried out based on the aligned business and technical strategic vision of the organization.  He/She will also provide support, resources, and education needed to assure that the staff and management team has the information, technology and tools to be successful in meeting the goals of the department and organization

Requirements:  The successful candidate had demonstrated ability working in a dynamic and fast paced organization. In addition this individual possessed the ability to effectively interface with diverse clients and provide solutions within complex financial operations.  They had experience in a management position overseeing the financial and accounting operations with emphasis on accounting processes, extensive budgeting and forecasting knowledge, financial reporting, cash flow management, and month-end closing. Several years of management and supervisory experience where they were demonstrated in their ability to support, develop and attract top financial talent in addition to ongoing development efforts that   ensure best practices. Effective communication, presentation and contract negotiation skills were also necessary. As was previous transportation, distribution and/or logistics industries.

Strategy:  We quickly began targeting Directors and Vice Presidents of Finance in competitive organizations. We also expanded our network by corresponding with financial associations that support senior level finance executives.  In addition we identified and recruited these same individuals in other local companies that had either distribution or logistics divisions.  This search was regional in scope with a target of central Ohio .

PostScript: The final candidate for this position was selected and began work within ninety days of the initiation of the search.  The candidate has made a direct impact on the organization by immediately working with the current staff to develop new policies and procedures to become more efficient and collaborative. As a direct result of our efforts for this position the executive staff requested our services for another strategic hire with a financial focus supporting the transportation division of the organization.