### Monte Schaefer: Executive Biography
**Monte Schaefer**
**CFO / Team Builder / Value Creator / Financier**
**Location:** Franklin, TN, United States
Monte Schaefer stands as a paragon of financial leadership and strategic foresight in the industrial and metals sectors. With a career marked by transformative achievements, Monte has consistently demonstrated his prowess in creating and preserving value across diverse enterprises. As the Principal at Dada Holdings LLC since 2015, he has been instrumental in managing the company’s investment strategies and serving as the Chief Financial Officer for Noranda Alumina & Bauxite. His adept leadership was pivotal during Dada Holdings’ acquisition of Noranda’s alumina and bauxite operations, steering these businesses through complex Chapter 11 proceedings to a more stable and prosperous future.
Monte’s executive acumen was previously showcased during his tenure as Chief Financial Officer at Wise Metals Group, where he executed the sale of an aluminum rolling mill for an unprecedented $1.4 billion. This transaction not only achieved a market-leading multiple but also underscored his exceptional strategic planning skills and ability to maximize stakeholder value. At Lincoln Electric Company, Monte directed the operations and finance for a $300 million division, driving quality, innovation, and lean efficiencies across manufacturing processes, leading to substantial improvements in market share and strategic business growth.
Monte’s financial expertise is further evidenced by his role as Director of Finance, Supply Chain & IT in Mexico for Lincoln Electric Company, where he secured significant savings through savvy long-term contracts and led successful SAP implementations that streamlined business operations. Earlier in his career, he honed his skills in international tax planning at Lincoln Electric Company and Arthur Andersen, where his sharp eye for detail and regulatory compliance resulted in significant tax reductions and enhanced profitability.
Monte’s academic foundation is equally impressive, with an educational background that spans economics at the United States Air Force Academy, advanced degrees in finance from Golden Gate University, and international tax law from Emory University School of Law. His specialties include mergers and acquisitions, post-merger integration, accounting for such transactions, sales and operations planning, lean manufacturing principles, and organizational strategic planning.
A true team builder, Monte leverages his deep industry knowledge to mentor teams towards achieving operational excellence. His commitment to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures that equitable opportunities are promoted within his teams and portfolio companies. Monte Schaefer’s career is a testament to his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, drive strategic growth, and build resilient, high-performing teams.
