About ThinkForward CFO

  • Scott Forester of ThinkForward CFO smiling and standing in front of the Madison, WI capitol building

I love helping others. For decades I built a successful career as a CFO in technology, food, toy, consumer product, hospitality and service industries. Now I want to share my skills and experience with visionary and ambitious entrepreneurs like you as your fractional CFO and trusted business advisor.

Most recently I served for nearly 6 years as the CFO for the pioneering technology company Punchkick Interactive, Inc. before finding Wipfli, LLP to purchase the company. Prior to the sale I worked closely with the CEO and handled all “back office” responsibilities. Additionally, I initiated process optimizations and unearthed and realized Research & Development tax credits.

Why “ThinkForward”?

I chose the name “ThinkForward” for a couple of reasons.  Most people, including business owners, don’t understand the difference between accountants (looking back and scorekeeping) and CFO’s (looking forward). I want to help you use your historical information to chart a path to success in the future.  In addition since moving to Madison I’ve learned how important the word “Forward” is to this community.

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As former CFO for Enjoy Life Foods, LLC (now part of Mondelēz), I orchestrated a rebound from a serious turnaround situation by establishing new bank debt which significantly increased available capital and reduced interest expense.

In previous CFO, COO, and VP Finance roles, I managed up to 40 employees and frequently served as “the right hand” to a visionary CEO of family-owned and privately held small and mid-sized entrepreneurial companies. I roll up my sleeves, thrive in growing environments and enjoy taking on a hybrid role of CFO and Controller to maximize your bottom-line impact.

Scott Forester - Trusted Outsourced CFO at a laptop
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I have a Master of Science (M.S.), Accounting and Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Accounting with Honors from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. I am also an Illinois Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Mergers & Acquisitions Successes

  • Punchkick Interactive Inc. sold to Wipfli, 2020
  • Enjoy Life Foods sold to Mondalez, 2013
  • Appetizers & Inc. sold to H.J. Heinz, 2005
  • Tiger (Toys) Electronics, Inc sold to Hasbro, 1998

My Core Values

These core values are integral in my operations as a fractional CFO.
Integrity

Integrity is the cornerstone of my work ethic. I hold high standards of what I expect of myself and of my collaborators. Ethical business practices are essential in my business and the businesses I work with.

ThinkForward CFO Values - Resourcefulness lightbulb icon
Resourcefulness

I’m not necessarily an outside the box thinker, but I search out all the corners of the box to find the solution that works for your unique business. I utilize my large network and years of experience to help your business succeed.

ThinkForward CFO Values - problem solving icon gears
Problem Solving

I look at problems as puzzles which I solve with experience, optimism, empathy, and a vast network of fantastic people and resources.

Dependability

Give me a task, I’m going to do it. I’m going to do it to the very best of my ability and I will communicate openly about any issues we run into.  You can be sure it will get done.

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Giving Back

I’m a big believer in helping others the ways so many have helped me.  Whether it’s donating my time and experience as a board member for a Not For Profit, mentoring people in the amazing Madison “start up” community or brainstorming with people who want to tap into my experience,  I’m at a stage in my life where it’s not all about money. I am currently Treasurer of StartingBlock Madison, I was VP Finance of Camp Ramah In Wisconsin, President of the Ramah Endowment Corporation and Treasurer of North Suburban Synagogue Beth El in Highland Park, IL.

Community Involvement

Treasurer of:
  • StartingBlock Madison
Finance Committee of:
  • Boys & Girls Club of Dane County
Member of:
  • Downtown Madison, Inc.
  • Rotary Club Of Madison
  • Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce
Mentoring:
  • Doyenne Group
  • Merlin Mentors
  • Gener8tor

More About Scott Forester

I grew up in the northern suburbs of Chicago.  My wife Betsy and I moved to Madison when she became the Rabbi of  Beth Israel Center (a local synagogue).  Our oldest daughter Rena teaches yoga and mindfulness in Israel. Our son Benjy is a third year rabbinical student and our daughter Shira is pursuing a masters in education.