“Entrepreneurial longevity is attainable when coordinated leadership is encouraged and
shared and given the opportunity to professionally contribute what is possible from the
bottom up.”
Larry Chillemi stands as a seasoned financial strategist, transformative operations leader, and trusted advisor to companies across agriculture, petroleum, CPG, and logistics industries. With over four decades of progressive leadership experience, Larry has carved a distinctive path driving operational efficiency, fostering high-performance teams, and architecting growth through sound financial governance and strategic foresight.
Larry’s professional journey began after earning his BS in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from California State University, Sacramento, where he also served as President of the Accounting Society. He paired this with an Associate of Science in Business Management from American River College. This academic foundation equipped him with analytical rigor and a systems-level understanding of business skills that would define his career across multiple industries and executive capacities.
His first significant leadership role came as Vice President of Operations at American River Recreation, Inc., where Larry brought operational order to a highly seasonal and dynamic business. From managing retail water sports divisions to developing full-service corporate rafting programs, he improved customer flow, innovated logistics, and built scalable staff management processes. His creativity and business acumen allowed the company to expand its offerings and boost customer satisfaction, all while maintaining financial accountability across distinct business segments.
In 1988, Larry took the helm as Controller at Inter-State Oil Company and 12 years later
as Chief Financial Officer. Transformative roles he held for over 24 years. Here, he was the architect behind the financial systems that enabled top-line revenue growth from $10 million to over $350 million. Overseeing concurrent responsibilities as General Manager of Inter-State Fuel Systems, Larry brought operational and financial processes into a new digital era. He spearheaded three major ERP conversions, introduced customized systems for inventory and procurement, and led initiatives in process automation long before it became a corporate buzzword. He fostered strong banking relationships, led seven acquisitions, and continually mentored rising leaders within the organization, proving his dedication to organizational sustainability and succession planning.
Larry’s leadership extended beyond financial systems into infrastructure development. His oversight of the $700,000 commercial cardlock fueling facility, including land purchase, RFP processes, and construction management demonstrated his ability to navigate complex regulatory, engineering, and operational challenges.
In 2013, Larry was appointed Chief Financial Officer at Grow West, formerly The Tremont and Lyman Groups. Over the next decade, he led the company’s financial strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Reporting directly to the CEO and Board of Directors, he provided the predictive insights and data-driven analysis critical for informed decision-making. He partnered closely with IT to manage cybersecurity risk and drive automation, playing a pivotal role in integrating finance with technology for real-time business optimization.
Larry’s impact at Grow West was transformative. He merged administrative offices to streamline workflows, outsourced key functions via SaaS platforms, and helped introduce a 401(k)-retirement plan with tiered benefit options for diverse employee needs. Under his financial leadership, the company reduced reliance on revolving credit and enhanced profitability through smarter capital expenditure and resource allocation strategies.
Today, Larry continues his journey as Founder of LC Strategic Consulting, LLC, where he offers tailored financial and operational guidance to growth-minded enterprises. He currently serves as interim CFO for Adams Group Inc. and holds an active Board seat at Valley Farm Transport. His consultative style is marked by his deep listening skills, humility, and laser focus on empowering others qualities that make him a valued partner in boardrooms and beyond.
Equally devoted to community service, Larry chairs the Foundation Board of UCP of Sacramento and Northern California. He has held leadership roles on the boards of The First Tee of Greater Sacramento and Financial Executives International, where his values-centered approach to leadership has inspired both peers and emerging leaders.
What defines Larry’s approach is his unwavering integrity and belief in the power of relationships. Whether overseeing multimillion-dollar acquisitions or mentoring future executives, he leads with a steady hand and clear purpose. He understands the nuances of industry-specific operations and has a remarkable ability to bridge gaps between finance, technology, and human capital.
Character:
Larry’s reputation is built on a foundation of integrity and mutual respect. He consistently operates with fairness, empowering colleagues and clients through value-driven leadership.
Knowledge:
With over four decades of financial and operational experience, Larry brings unmatched insight to every engagement. His expertise spans ERP systems, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance across multiple industries.
Strategic:
Larry’s leadership is grounded in strategic foresight and data-informed decision-making. He excels in aligning financial goals with operational capabilities, ensuring sustained growth and performance.
Communication:
An effective communicator, Larry blends clarity with empathy in every interaction. His collaborative style builds trust across all organizational levels, from the boardroom to the front line.
