About Darrell B Howell
Business Consultant | A Visionary Leader in Financial Operations and Business Growth
Darrell B. Howell is a highly accomplished and strategic Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with more than two decades of experience in financial leadership. He has guided companies across various industries toward sustainable growth. Throughout his career, he has played an integral role in transforming financial operations, expanding business ventures, and implementing innovative strategies that drive profitability. His leadership has taken businesses from modest, single-location operations to expansive, multi-million-dollar enterprises. With a career marked by dedication and precision, he consistently delivers results that exceed expectations.
Financial Leadership
Darrell has demonstrated exceptional expertise in overseeing all aspects of corporate finance, including Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A), budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting. His ability to maintain financial health while ensuring operational efficiency is central to his success. He has proven time and again that he can navigate complex financial landscapes, ensuring that businesses thrive even in challenging economic conditions. His comprehensive knowledge of finance has been pivotal in supporting business growth and ensuring the financial well-being of every organization he has served.
Process Improvement and Efficiency
One of Howell's greatest strengths is his talent for process improvement. He has an innate ability to identify inefficiencies within financial operations and implement adequate internal controls to streamline processes. By leveraging technology, he has enhanced financial systems across multiple organizations, improving accuracy and speed in financial reporting. His commitment to continuous improvement has resulted in significant cost savings, improved relations with auditors, and more efficient operations. His forward-thinking approach ensures that businesses are always equipped with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving marketplace.
Strategic Financial Thinking
A strategic thinker by nature, Darrell possesses strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of how financial decisions impact overall business performance. His ability to see the big picture while maintaining meticulous attention to detail allows him to make informed decisions that enhance profitability and growth. He has a keen sense of market trends, and his forward-planning mindset has positioned companies to adapt to changing environments. His strategic insights have been instrumental in guiding businesses through successful expansions and financial transformations.
Diverse Industry Experience
Darrell Howell's vast experience spans a range of industries, including construction, real estate, technology, service franchises, and roofing. His adaptability and business acumen have enabled him to apply his financial expertise to each sector effectively, contributing to both short-term and long-term success. Whether it's expanding a service franchise across state lines or building new divisions within existing companies, his industry versatility is a critical component of his professional success. His broad exposure to various fields has provided him with a unique perspective that enhances his problem-solving abilities and strengthens his leadership capacity.
Team Leadership
A strong advocate for team collaboration, Howell has consistently demonstrated his ability to build and lead high-performing finance teams. His leadership style fosters a culture of trust and empowerment, allowing his teams to excel and meet organizational goals. He recognizes the importance of nurturing talent and providing the resources necessary for team members to succeed. His success as a leader is evident in the loyalty and performance of the teams he has developed over his career. His commitment to team growth ensures that each member contributes to the overall success of the organization.
Major Career Achievements
Among Darrell's many accomplishments, one of his standout achievements was expanding the offerings and establishing a commercial division at Bluebird Roofing, which resulted in a significant increase in annual revenue—from $28 million to $40 million in just one year. In another notable project, he led the successful implementation of a stock equity program for a Fortune 500 company, further solidifying his reputation as a strategic and results-oriented financial leader. He also streamlined financial operations at Kenco Distributors & Entities, leading to increased operational efficiency and better auditor relationships. Additionally, he was instrumental in growing a Pizza Hut franchise from a single location to ten, spanning three states, achieving substantial sales growth along the way.
Educational Background
Howell's foundation in business and finance began with his education. After completing high school, he pursued business courses, eventually focusing on accounting and management. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Management from the University of North Alabama in 1989. His academic journey was not just about professional development—during his time at the University of North Alabama, he met the love of his life, whom he married in June 1990. He furthered his education with a Master of Business Administration in Accounting from Middle Tennessee State University, equipping him with the advanced skills necessary to excel in his financial career.
Passion for Philanthropy
Darrell is deeply committed to giving back to the community that has provided so much for him and his family. His faith is central to his life, and he dedicates his time to serving as the treasurer for his local church, Donelson First Baptist. He is a consistent presence in the church, always ready to lend a hand where needed. He and his family also volunteer annually at Gobble Gobble Give, an organization that ensures everyone in the community enjoys a fulfilling Thanksgiving holiday. His dedication to philanthropy extends to his children, whom he has instilled with the values of community service and generosity.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Darrell B Howell is a devoted family man who cherishes spending quality time with his wife and children. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he maintains a solid commitment to his physical health, often playing golf with family and friends. He also remains an avid fan of Tennessee Volunteers football and basketball, frequently returning to Knoxville to attend games. His love for travel is another defining aspect of his life—he believes that exploring new places offers valuable perspectives and experiences. His passion for travel is something he shares with his family, and they look forward to each new adventure together.
Darrell's career as a CFO is marked by his unwavering commitment to financial leadership, strategic growth, and process improvement. His ability to lead teams, streamline operations, and make informed financial decisions has contributed to the success of numerous businesses across a variety of industries. Beyond his professional accomplishments, his dedication to his community, family, and personal well-being paints the picture of a well-rounded and profoundly principled individual.
Portfolio Website: https://darrellhowell.com
