Cynthia Brown is a seasoned financial professional with over 25 years of extensive experience in accounting, finance, and leadership across manufacturing and nonprofit sectors. Known for her strategic mindset and collaborative leadership style, Cynthia has a proven record of driving organizational growth and operational excellence through financial planning, budgeting, and process improvements. Based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, she has demonstrated the ability to influence business outcomes by designing and implementing programs that optimize cost efficiencies, streamline financial operations, and foster cross-functional collaboration.
Throughout her career, Cynthia has held senior leadership roles, most notably serving as Controller at Flowers Bakery of Cleveland, LLC, where she managed all accounting and finance functions over an 18-year tenure. There, she led budgeting, forecasting, analysis, capital management, SOX compliance, and financial reporting, delivering critical insights that supported executive decision-making and enhanced company profitability. Her leadership in implementing and upgrading ERP systems such as SAP has further modernized operational efficiency and reporting accuracy. Cynthia’s skill in reducing reporting timelines and enhancing internal controls exemplifies her commitment to continuous improvement.
In addition to her corporate accomplishments, Cynthia has a strong commitment to community service and nonprofit leadership. She has contributed her talents to various organizations, including serving on the boards of the Hamilton County Association, a local daycare center, and Collegiate Baptist Ministries. Her leadership in these roles reflects her dedication to governance, mentorship, and social impact, extending her influence beyond the corporate arena.
Cynthia’s core competencies include leadership development, strategic planning, project management, financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and cross-departmental collaboration. She is adept at coaching and mentoring teams to foster professional growth and succession planning, underscoring her belief in empowering others as a foundation for sustained success.
Her educational credentials include a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting from the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. Complementing her academic background are professional trainings such as Lead ISO Auditor certification and advanced proficiency in financial systems including SAP, JD Edwards, Oracle, Blackline, AuditBoard, and Business Objects.
Cynthia has also demonstrated her communication skills through speaking engagements at conferences and authoring articles for the ministry she founded, showcasing her ability to engage diverse audiences and advocate for causes she supports.
As Cynthia seeks new opportunities to serve on corporate and nonprofit boards, she emphasizes her readiness to bring flexible, strategic leadership that drives financial stewardship, operational excellence, and sustainable growth. Her personal mission—to make a meaningful impact on businesses leading to company growth—guides her approach as she partners with organizations looking to enhance governance and financial performance.
Outside of her professional life, Cynthia enjoys tennis and biking, pursuits that mirror her energetic and disciplined approach to both work and life.
Character: Cynthia is a dedicated and collaborative leader committed to empowering teams and making a meaningful impact in both business and community settings.
Knowledge: She possesses deep expertise in accounting, financial planning, budgeting, and compliance, supported by over 25 years of hands-on experience in manufacturing and nonprofit sectors.
Strategic: Cynthia excels at driving organizational growth through effective financial management, process improvements, and cross-functional collaboration.
Communication: She is an engaging communicator who mentors teams, leads conferences, and authors articles that inspire and inform diverse audiences.
