Kenneth Safford
About Kenneth Safford
Kenneth Safford serves as the Vice President of Finance at Forrest Machining, LLC, bringing over 25 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, particularly in cost accounting. He previously held key financial roles at various companies, including Chief Financial Officer positions at Walbar Engine Components LLC and Brek Manufacturing Company.
Current Role at FMI
Kenneth Safford serves as the Vice President of Finance at Forrest Machining, LLC, known as FMI Aerostructures. He has held this position since 2021, contributing to the company's financial strategy and operations for three years. His role involves overseeing financial planning, analysis, and reporting, ensuring that FMI maintains its financial health and supports its operational goals.
Previous Experience in Finance
Prior to his current position, Kenneth Safford worked at Walbar Engine Components LLC as Chief Financial Officer for 10 months in 2018. He also held the role of Group Controller at Cadence Aerospace from 2005 to 2016, where he spent 11 years managing financial operations. Additionally, he served as Chief Financial Officer at Brek Manufacturing Company from 2016 to 2018, and as Accounting Manager at Pizza Blends, Inc. from 1992 to 1997.
Educational Background
Kenneth Safford studied at Washington State University's Carson College of Business, where he focused on Accounting and Finance. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, completing his studies from 1989 to 1991. This educational foundation has supported his extensive career in finance within the manufacturing industry.
Expertise in Manufacturing Finance
With over 25 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, Kenneth Safford specializes in cost accounting. He advocates for accountants to possess a deep understanding of the production side of the business. His approach emphasizes proactive financial management, encouraging accountants to identify issues before they arise, rather than merely reporting on them.
Professional Philosophy and Values
Kenneth Safford emphasizes the importance of work ethic in his professional environment. He demands a similar level of commitment from his employees, fostering a culture of loyalty and dedication. His focus on contributing to the success of his company reflects his belief in the integral role of finance in overall business operations.