Darrell B Howell: A Visionary Financial Leader and Strategic CFO
Darrell B Howell: A Visionary Financial Leader and Strategic CFO
Darrell B Howell is a dynamic, results-oriented CFO with over two decades of experience leading financial operations and fostering business growth across various industries. His extensive career has been marked by a series of financial transformations, with a focus on strategic cost-saving initiatives and the expansion of businesses from modest beginnings to multi-million dollar operations. His leadership style centers on driving financial success through innovation, process improvement, and comprehensive business insight. HisHe's approach to finance is deeply rooted in his ability to anticipate market changes and adapt strategies that enhance business performance.
As a seasoned financial leader, Darrell has a proven track record of overseeing all facets of corporate finance. His expertise spans financial planning and analysis (FP&A), budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and detailed financial reporting. He has successfully led financial departments for businesses in industries ranging from real estate to technology and service franchises, always with a sharp eye on maintaining financial integrity while driving growth. His capacity to guide organizations through complex financial landscapes, coupled with his hands-on approach, has made him an indispensable asset to every team he's been a part of.
Howell has consistently demonstrated his ability to streamline financial operations by implementing efficient processes and leveraging technology to drive performance. His experience includes the introduction of internal controls that reduce operational costs and ensure compliance with financial regulations. By optimizing business processes, he has enhanced overall efficiency, allowing businesses to scale effectively while reducing waste. His work at Kenco Distributors & Entities, where he improved relationships with auditors and increased operational efficiency, is a testament to his commitment to process improvement.
Darrell's strategic mindset is one of his most valuable assets. His strong analytical skills enable him to assess how financial decisions will affect long-term business performance. With an innate understanding of how market trends influence corporate growth, he has been instrumental in expanding offerings and entering new markets. At Bluebird Roofing, for instance, he was instrumental in establishing a commercial division, which contributed to the company's revenue jump from $28M to $40M in just one year. His broad industry experience, which includes work in construction, real estate, technology, and roofing, allows him to view business challenges from multiple angles and devise solutions that ensure both short-term gains and sustainable growth.
Beyond his financial expertise, Darrell Howell excels in building and leading high-performing teams. He believes that a strong team is the backbone of any successful business and has made it a priority to mentor and develop the talent within his finance teams. His leadership at Pizza Hut, where he expanded the franchise from a single location to ten across three states, showcases his ability to inspire and drive teams toward ambitious goals. His leadership philosophy is grounded in collaboration, transparency, and a shared vision of success.
Darrell's educational background laid the foundation for his exceptional career. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Management from the University of North Alabama in 1989. He is particularly proud of his time at the university, where he met the love of his life, whom he married in 1990. Furthering his education, he obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Accounting from Middle Tennessee State University. His dedication to lifelong learning continues to shape his career as he remains committed to staying ahead of financial and industry trends.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Howell is passionate about giving back to his community. A man of strong faith, he dedicates his time and expertise as the treasurer of Donelson First Baptist Church. He also participates in various community service initiatives with his family, including volunteering with Gobble Gobble Give every Thanksgiving to help those in need enjoy the holiday season. He has passed his values of community service and philanthropy onto his children, ensuring they understand the importance of contributing to society. His active involvement in local charitable efforts is a reflection of his deep commitment to making a positive impact beyond the financial world.
Family is at the core of Darrell B Howell's personal life. He enjoys spending time with his wife and children, whether at home or exploring new destinations together. He is a lifelong sports enthusiast with a particular love for golf, which he often plays with friends and family. He also has a passion for supporting his alma mater, the University of Tennessee, frequently attending their football and basketball games. Travel plays a significant role in his life, as he believes it provides valuable insights and fosters a broader perspective of the world. Whether it's a family vacation or a quick getaway, he cherishes the opportunity to experience new cultures and environments and is always eager for the next adventure.
Darrell's journey as a CFO, community leader, and devoted family man is a testament to his dedication, strategic thinking, and ability to balance professional success with personal fulfillment.