David G. Wopschall is a seasoned financial and operational executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in private equity-backed and public companies. Recognized as a high-impact Chief Financial Officer (CFO), he has been instrumental in driving enterprise value creation, executing large-scale mergers and acquisitions, and leading financial transformations across diverse industries including high technology, electronics, satellite communications, SaaS, consumer products, and industrial manufacturing. His expertise in financial strategy, operational restructuring, and global integration has positioned him as a trusted partner to CEOs, Boards of Directors, and investors.
Throughout his career, Wopschall has demonstrated an exceptional ability to develop and implement enterprise-wide initiatives that enhance culture, productivity, and profitability. His leadership has facilitated over $1 billion in successful M&A transactions, consistently achieving valuations exceeding ten times earnings in his last five assignments. With a track record of raising over $300 million in capital, he has successfully managed complex business transformations, spearheading operational restructuring, acquisitions, divestitures, and turnarounds that drive sustainable growth and financial stability.
Currently serving as a financial and operational advisor through DW International, Wopschall provides CFO advisory services to private equity-backed companies, including a $350 million consumer electronics subsidiary of an Italian conglomerate. His leadership in restructuring finance and accounting operations, treasury management, tax compliance, and financial reporting has been pivotal in optimizing corporate strategy and execution.
Previously, as CFO and Board Director at Panasonic ITC Global, Wopschall led the restructuring and turnaround of the global satellite communications and SaaS provider, transforming it from a cash-draining entity into a profitable enterprise with positive EBITDA. He spearheaded the strategic carve-out of ITC Global from Panasonic’s $2 billion operations, driving the M&A sale process that resulted in a high-value acquisition by Marlink. His efforts in integrating global financial operations, optimizing supply chains, and implementing financial controls contributed to doubling the company’s EBITDA post-acquisition.
At Zodiac Aerospace (now part of SAFRAN), Wopschall played a crucial role in the turnaround and carve-out of key manufacturing business units, overseeing $1 billion in annual revenues. His strategic financial leadership resulted in a $6 million EBITDA improvement within four months. Additionally, he developed robust financial planning and forecasting mechanisms while driving operational efficiencies and cost reductions.
As CFO of Smart Electronics and Lark Engineering, he partnered with private equity investors to lead the financial sale of the high-tech electronics manufacturer. His initiatives in restructuring operations, supply chain management, and financial optimization positioned the company for a successful $230 million acquisition by Benchmark Electronics at twelve times EBITDA. He played a key role in securing additional investments and executing a strategic plan that enabled rapid expansion within the aerospace and defense sectors.
In his earlier roles, Wopschall held executive leadership positions at CFO Consulting, Swedish Space Corporation, Stellex Electronics, Unocal Corporation, Lockheed Martin, and Ford Aerospace. His tenure at Swedish Space Corporation was marked by his leadership in stabilizing operations and securing a high-value exit for private equity investors. At Stellex Electronics, he was instrumental in raising over $300 million through an IPO and securing strategic acquisitions that enhanced the company’s market position.
Wopschall’s deep financial expertise extends across critical areas such as enterprise financial planning and analysis, regulatory compliance (GAAP, SOX, IFRS), risk mitigation, treasury management, and IT systems integration. He is skilled at managing complex global operations, optimizing resource allocation, and driving financial transparency and accountability. His ability to synthesize complex financial data into actionable business strategies makes him an invaluable leader in navigating dynamic market environments.
A respected advisor and executive, Wopschall’s professional influence extends beyond corporate leadership. He has provided financial and strategic counsel to high-profile organizations such as the Giant Magellan Telescope Organization (GMTO), where he played a key role in securing $300 million in funding commitments for one of the world’s most significant scientific endeavors. His contributions in financial planning, resource allocation, and risk management have supported long-term sustainability and operational success.
Wopschall holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in International Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, Economics, and Management from California State University, Fullerton. His extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to financial excellence continue to drive transformative success across industries and global markets.
Character: David G. Wopschall is a results-driven and ethical leader known for his integrity, resilience, and ability to navigate complex financial and operational challenges.
Knowledge: With over 25 years of expertise in finance, M&A, restructuring, and global operations, he has successfully driven enterprise value and optimized financial performance across multiple industries.
Strategic: A visionary CFO, he has led over $1 billion in M&A transactions, executed large-scale turnarounds, and implemented financial strategies that drive profitability and sustainable growth.
Communication: As a trusted advisor to CEOs and Boards, he effectively synthesizes complex financial data into actionable insights, ensuring clear decision-making and strategic alignment across organizations.