Alfonso Gastelum

About Alfonso Gastelum

Strategic finance executive with extensive experience optimizing performance and scaling operations across global food manufacturing and distribution organizations. Recognized for creating innovative financial frameworks and forecasting tools that enhance decision-making and operational excellence. A proven leader in building high-performing teams and implementing systems and processes that improve reporting accuracy and business intelligence. Combines deep food industry expertise with strategic vision to drive lasting operational improvements across complex organizations: • : Led the integration of multiple food brands, achieving measurable improvements in Overall Equipment Effectiveness through strategic operational enhancements. • : Directed financial integration for strategic acquisitions across North America, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and optimizing profitability. • : Developed consolidated financial reporting platforms to unify disparate systems and foster comprehensive analytics capabilities: • : Spearheaded initiatives to optimize manufacturing processes, enhance cost modeling, and improve pricing strategies for sustainable growth. • : Directed the implementation of unified financial systems across multiple countries, standardizing processes for global consistency. Performance Measurement: Established and implemented systems to measure and drive performance across manufacturing and distribution facilities: • : Standardized financial reporting and operational strategies across international facilities to improve efficiency and alignment. • : Built and led dynamic teams, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability to support long-term organizational success. • : Maintains a systematic approach to business transformation, prioritizing stakeholder value and sustainable growth.

Experience

1. Chief Financial Officer

   Chef Merito

   Oct 2023 — Present · Los Angeles, CA, US

   Leads financial strategy and operations for a rapidly growing food manufacturing enterprise. Oversees the integration of multiple brands, standardizes processes for GAAP compliance and financial reporting, and creates comprehensive forecasting models. Drives operational efficiency while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence.• : Successfully integrated HR, IT, and finance functions for multiple brands, aligning operations and achieving seamless transitions.• : Reduced conversion costs in seasoning manufacturing through strategic operational enhancements, resulting in improved productivity and cost savings.• : Established treasury management systems, enhancing cash forecasting accuracy and strengthening relationships with financial lenders.• : Implemented standardized financial close processes, ensuring consistent, timely, and accurate reporting to support organizational growth.• : Championed a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence, fostering innovation and collaboration across teams.

Education

• Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University

  Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)

• University of Phoenix

  Bachelor of Science - BS