Chief Financial Officer

Restaurant Associates' heritage is steeped in culinary and hospitality excellence. In all that we do, people matter. We value our guests, our communities, and most importantly, our own. At R/A, food is inspiration. With an unwavering dedication to evolution and innovation, we continue to set new standards in the industry, shaping memorable experiences through every dish and interaction we deliver.

R/A is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to drive financial excellence, operational efficiency, and sustainable growth for a $1.7B contract food service business in North America with multiple divisions nationally. This role is based in New York City with the flexibility to spend time in the Rye Brook, NY, office as well. The position reports to the CEO of Restaurant Associates, with a dotted line to the CFO of R/A's parent company, Compass Group North America, Business & Industry Division.

As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, the CFO will provide financial stewardship, oversee corporate governance, and collaborate on innovation initiatives to enhance the company's long-term value.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the financial strategy of one of the nation's fastest-growing organizations. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with deep financial expertise, a passion for business transformation, and the ability to navigate complex financial landscapes with confidence and integrity.

At R/A, we foster an inclusive and high-performing culture where innovation, collaboration, and integrity drive our success. We are looking for a forward-thinking CFO who is eager to make an impact and lead the financial strategy of a company that is redefining industry standards. If you are a strategic financial leader ready to take on a transformative role, we invite you to apply and be part of our journey.

* Strategic Leadership: Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO and Executive Team, playing a critical role in shaping R/A's long-term financial strategy, growth trajectory, and operational excellence.
* Financial Oversight: Lead a team of 75 finance professionals in driving financial performance, optimizing capital structure, and ensuring fiscal responsibility across R/A's diverse business divisions.
* Business Development & Contract Negotiation: Evaluate new business opportunities, manage key client negotiations, and oversee financial structuring of major deals to support expansion and profitability.
* Corporate Governance & Compliance: Ensure strong financial controls, risk management, and compliance with regulatory requirements, maintaining the highest standards of transparency and integrity.
* Mergers & Acquisitions: Oversee acquisition analysis, due diligence, and seamless integration of new business units, ensuring alignment with R/A's strategic objectives.
* Innovation & Efficiency Initiatives: Partner with the Executive Team to implement financial and operational efficiencies, including technology enhancements, process improvements, and loss prevention strategies.
* Financial Reporting: Continually improves internal financial reporting and drives business process review to increase efficiency, aiming to add value that influences without authority.
* Parent Company Relations: Serve as the primary liaison with Compass Group leadership on financial reporting, budgeting, and corporate initiatives, fostering alignment and strategic collaboration.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with key stakeholders to drive financial discipline, optimize working capital, and maintain strong profit margins while supporting revenue growth.
* Ownership and Teamwork: Proactively use the right influencing techniques to gain dedication and support from other partners, both internally and externally while maintaining a positive demeanor. Build friendly relationships with colleagues, share knowledge and insight, and demonstrate dedication to the organization. Can work independently and collaboratively in a team.
* Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills , listen to others and value their contributions, receptive to new ideas and building on them.

* 10+ years of senior financial leadership experience in a large, multi-site organization (preferably with revenue exceeding $1 billion).
* Bachelor's degree required (MBA preferred).
* CPA or equivalent accounting certification required.
* Industry expertise in food service, hospitality, or a related sector is highly desirable.
* Public accounting background is a plus.
* Proven track record in business development, contract negotiation, and financial strategy execution.
* Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
* Experience leading large-scale financial transformation, process improvement, and change management initiatives.
* Ability to travel within the U.S. (up to 20%).
* Commitment to ethical leadership, corporate responsibility, and driving a culture of excellence.