Executive Vice President, Finance
LHH has partnered with the Chicago Blackhawks on the search for their EVP of Finance. This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the most storied franchises in the NHL with a rich history of success and a commitment to excellence. The organization is committed to building a future that honors their legacy while embracing innovation.
To apply, please use this link or send your resume to [email protected] for consideration. Please refrain from direct outreach to the organization.
Overview of the Role:
The Executive Vice President of Finance will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team of the Chicago Blackhawks. This role will oversee all financial activities, including financial reporting, league reporting, general accounting, operational accounting, and treasury functions for the Chicago Blackhawks, Rockford Ice Hogs, Fifth Third Arena and the Chicago Steel. Additionally, the EVP of Finance will take on responsibilities such as strategic financial planning, risk management, and capital allocation, and will collaborate with parent company finance leadership to ensure alignment of financial and strategic objectives. This role will play a pivotal role in enhancing the organization's financial controls, transforming financial systems and policies, and formalizing processes to ensure the financial health and integrity of the company. This role is also responsible for audit readiness and leading continuous improvements in financial operations.
Primary Responsibilities:
Financial Reporting:
- Oversee the preparation and presentation of accurate and timely financial statements, reports, and forecasts.
- Ensure compliance with GAAP and other regulatory requirements.
- Provide financial insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making; present financial results on a regular basis to Chicago Blackhawks and Parent Company senior leadership
- Present financial results to the board of directors and other key stakeholders.
NHL League Reporting:
- Manage required reporting to the National Hockey League, including reports such as the Hockey Related Revenue (HRR) and Unified Report of Operations (URO).
General and Operational Accounting:
- Manage all aspects of general accounting, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets.
- Oversee operational accounting functions, ensuring accurate and efficient transaction processing.
- Ensure the integrity of financial data and the accuracy of the general ledger.
Treasury Management:
- Oversee cash flow management, including cash forecasting, liquidity management, and investment strategies.
- Collaborate with Parent Company finance to ensure timely and regular visibility into cash flow outlook and forecasts.
- Work with corporate resources to ensure banking relationships are appropriate and efficient.
- Develop and implement strategies to optimize the organization's capital structure.
- Manage the organization's debt, equity, and other financial instruments. In particular, oversee and ensure compliance with all debt agreements and covenants with external parties (e.g., league, banks). Manage debt maturities and ensure sufficient cash flow at all times.
- Oversee construction draws and spending on practice facility expansion.
Audit and Compliance:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors and ensure audit readiness at all times.
- Coordinate the preparation of audit schedules and respond to auditor inquiries.
- Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure the accuracy of financial records.
Strategic Financial Planning and Analysis:
- Develop and execute long-term financial strategies that align with the organization's goals and objectives.
- Conduct financial analysis to support key business decisions, including mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic initiatives.
- Lead the development of financial models and forecasts to guide strategic planning.
- Monitor financial performance against strategic goals and adjust plans as necessary.
Capital Allocation and Investment:
- Oversee capital allocation decisions, ensuring that resources are deployed efficiently to maximize returns.
- Evaluate potential investment opportunities and manage the organization's investment portfolio.
- Provide guidance on major capital expenditures and other significant financial commitments.
Risk Management:
- Identify and assess financial risks, including market, credit, operational, and compliance risks.
- Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate exposure and protect the organization's financial assets.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
Controls, Systems, and Process Transformation:
- Lead the enhancement of financial controls and procedures to mitigate risks and improve operational efficiency.
- Drive the transformation of financial systems and policies to support the evolving needs of the organization.
- Formalize and document financial processes to ensure consistency and compliance across the organization.
Strategic Leadership:
- Collaborate with other members of the executive team to develop and execute the organization's financial strategy.
- Provide leadership and mentorship to the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
- Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO, President, Business Operations and the General Manger and other senior leaders on financial matters.
Budgeting and Forecasting:
- Lead the annual budgeting process, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and strategic priorities.
- Monitor and report on financial performance, identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective actions as needed.
- Develop and maintain long-term financial forecasts to support strategic planning.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in accounting required; CPA and MBA preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in finance and accounting, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
- Experience with a professional sports organization or adjacent industry required.
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and audit processes ideally with a foundation from a notable public accounting firm.
- Proven track record of leading financial transformation initiatives and enhancing internal controls.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.
- Chicago based role, will consider relocation support for candidates with professional sports industry experience.
Competencies:
- Strategic Thinking
- Financial Acumen
- Business Acumen
- Leadership and Team Development
- Analytical and Data Driven
- Change Management
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
- Attention to Detail
- Integrity and Ethical Conduct
The organization is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, religion or religious creed, color, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, local law, ordinance, or regulation and will not be discriminated against on these bases.
To apply, please use this link or send your resume to [email protected] for consideration. Please refrain from direct outreach to the organization.
