Hello, I'm Melanie Porter, and I'm delighted to introduce myself as your potential Fractional CFO. With a unique blend of analytical prowess, a passion for building connections, and a love for restoring and improving both people and companies, I bring a holistic approach to financial management that goes beyond numbers.

 

My journey to becoming a Fractional CFO is as diverse as my skill set. Initially pursuing an accounting degree, I soon found myself drawn to psychology and therapy, obtaining a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. However, my love for numbers and processes never waned, keeping me in accounting, where I honed my expertise and built a successful career. In 2024, I gained a Master's in Business Administration to support my role as a Fractional CFO.

 

In my career, I've gained invaluable experience in various roles, starting with seven years at a CPA firm providing bookkeeping and payroll services. Subsequently, I spent five years at a small drywall company, where I spearheaded the development of their office staff and accounting systems, established their ERP, and rose to the position of Controller. My journey continued with a rewarding five and a half years at a large HVAC company, where I ascended to the role of CFO in just two years and led the development of both the accounting and recruiting departments. This included building KPI reporting, a functional budget, and a cash flow forecast system. While in HVAC, I also gained a great deal of experience working with mergers and acquisitions, due diligence, and purchase agreements as I supported the owner in ultimately partnering with a private equity firm in 2023. 

 

Beyond my professional accomplishments, my greatest joy comes from my role as a wife of 18 years and a mother of three wonderful children. My faith and family are the cornerstone of my life, grounding me and guiding me in all that I do. Not only do I have an acumen for people and numbers, but I am also an artist. My weekends often include hands that are dirty with acrylics and pastels as I aim to turn abstract and landscape visions into a creation that fills my cup.

 

At the heart of my mission is a commitment to creatively collaborate with entrepreneurs and small business owners. I strive to anchor their vision with tailored financial solutions that not only help their businesses thrive and grow but also build lasting value.

 

As your Fractional CFO, I'm here to not only provide financial expertise but also to partner with you on your journey, weaving your story into every strategic decision we make. Let's connect and embark on this journey together!