Jacques W.

Background

About Jacques W.

Results-driven business partner and finance leader. History of partnering with executive management to drive strategic initiatives and identify opportunities for revenue growth and cost optimization. Over the course of his career, Jacques has acquired extensive experience leading financial teams, overseeing budgeting and forecasting processes, managing financial risks, driving profitability, working with external advisors to implement optimal tax strategies, and implementing process improvements to increase overall operational efficiency. Chartered accountant with 20 years’ experience in multiple international markets including New York City, Toronto, Sydney, and Cape Town. Key accomplishments include:• M&A activities including due diligence procedures for several acquisitions ($50M to $150M), preparation of carved-out financial statements and data room schedules/sell side due diligence in support of multiple divestitures ($500M to $2B) and business integration of acquisitions ($100M to $400M).• Implementing $15M+ in annual cost savings measures and increasing annual business cash flows by $20M+ through enhancement of cash management practices.• Leading Strategic transformation initiatives such as the implementation of a new customer relationship management platform (Salesforce) for 450+ users, the roll out of a Power BI data analytics tool, Workday payroll and the introduction of robotic process automation.• IPO readiness activities including SOX scoping and implementation, balance sheet remediation and review of S-1 and S-3 prospectuses.• Building high performance teams through a combination of reorganization, training, strategic new hires, outsourcing non-key operational and support functions to offshore service centers and introduction of new technology.• Ad hoc initiatives: Assessed & strengthened cyber security. Introduced corporate credit card program, company match retirement savings program, anti-money laundering program (FINTRAC), and a business continuity plan.Industries: Real Estate, Professional Services, Family Entertainment, Retail, Food & Beverages.Expertise:US GAAP, IFRS, SOX and regulatory compliance, SEC reporting, controllership, budgeting and forecasting (FP & A), treasury, M&A, year-end audits, tax, transformation, strategic planning and system implementation.