Paul Ethier
Paul Ethier is a well rounded executive with leadership experience
in Finance, Marketing and Operations. His industry experience includes Consumer
Packaged Goods, Manufacturing and Services at both large and small firms. Prior
to establishing his consulting practice Paul was the CFO and Chief Operating
Officer of a high-tech/high-touch travel company.
Paul possesses a unique combination of skills and experience from working in an entrepreneurial ‘pocket’ of a Fortune 500 company and as an executive with a small stand-alone company. Today he brings his financial and operational expertise to small and medium-sized firms through effective management and consulting services.
Paul’s clients benefit from his solid, hands-on experience in finance, marketing and manufacturing. He has closed the books, run audits, and built both margins and factories. Several businesses have been brought to profitability and positive cash flow through his efforts. In marketing, his skills run the full range. Paul can do everything from price and position to write advertising copy. He has launched over 20 significant product offerings. Operationally Paul is especially skilled with acquiring and integrating companies.
As a leader with the Clorox Company Paul built up brand equities and commercial operations throughout Latin America. He has also served as Controller and held and director positions in both Corporate and Domestic operations.
Experience
Developed and implemented domestic plant operating metrics across 13 manufacturing facilities reducing on cost of goods manufactured by eight points and capital expenditures by three.
Increased credibility of an international division through on-time financial reporting by foreign affiliates, overall improved results and deeper understanding of operations by senior management.
Increased volume via business development, new product launches and acquisition resulting in a commanding market share. Also, streamlined operations and gained a 25% reduction in costs.
Developed and implemented Export Operations between foreign entities as well as into and from US operations. This led to increased global market share and significant cost savings while maintaining brand equity, quality and customer service.
Brought a troubled firm to profitability in a down market. Increased margins by controlling overhead and direct expenses. Enhanced revenue with pricing initiatives, a new marketing focus and by launching a partnership with a major airline reservation system.
Initiated and implemented over $130 million in cost savings.
Style and Principles
The “numbers” and the metrics matter,
Superb customer service and sales volume solve most business problems,
Brand equities and the corporate culture are key cornerstones of the business,
All line and staff functions must be appreciated,
Excellent people really matter.
Past Assignments
Directed Finance & Accounting in staff and line positions in International and Domestic operations,
Directed Marketing and served as GM with P&L responsibility of six overseas businesses,
Managed functional teams (Marketing, Sales, Distribution and Manufacturing) in M&A role,
Built and transitioned businesses from start-up positions to sustainable profits and cash flow,
“C” level and BOD capabilities related to strategic planning, funding, and growth/exit strategies.
Education
Providence College, Providence, Rhode Island - B.S. Accounting.
St. Mary’s College, Moraga, California - Executive MBA.