What happens when a business finally sees its financial picture clearly? That question is at the heart of a recent feature in MoldMaking Technology, where Michigan CFO Associates and Consulting CFO Dennis Weist were recognized for the transformational impact of fractional financial leadership at TK Mold & Engineering.
But this story isn’t about recognition. It’s about results. And more importantly, it’s about the financial roadblocks many manufacturers don’t even realize they’re living with—until they’re removed.
The Reality for Many Small Manufacturers
Tom Barr, president of TK Mold in Romeo, Michigan, shared what business looked like before professional financial oversight. Like many shop owners, he wore both hats: leading the business by day, managing the books by night.
“I would run the shop during the day and then spend the evenings handling payables, receivables and chasing money,” Barr told MoldMaking Technology.
The company’s financial system was functional, but basic. Like many small manufacturers, TK Mold relied on a bookkeeper and a year-end tax accountant—but lacked the forward planning, oversight, and strategic input that a CFO brings.
That gap led to stress, inefficiency, and missed opportunities. And it wasn’t until a trusted bank contact recommended fractional CFO support that Barr saw a different path forward.
More Than Just Numbers
When TK Mold brought on Dennis Weist from Michigan CFO Associates, the ensuing changes went far beyond financial reporting.
“Dennis is an integral member of TK Mold’s team,” the article notes. “His expertise extends beyond finances, shaping HR, IT and supplier strategies for long-term success.”
It began with tightening up financial visibility—ensuring the books were accurate, current, and structured to better inform meaningful action and decision-making. But the impact grew quickly from there.
Highlights from the transformation:
Cash flow control
Weist implemented 13-week cash flow forecasting, giving TK Mold better visibility and greater control in navigating vendor and customer relationships.
Risk management
Insurance policies and contracts were reviewed and adjusted to better protect the business.
Cost Control
Recurring expenses were audited and reduced; capital expenditures were prioritized and planned with more discipline.
Banking Relationships
The quality of financial reporting and the CFO’s credibility helped TK Mold secure better interest rates and more favorable loan terms.
As Barr shared, the shift wasn’t just internal. It changed how their bank engaged with them:
“Our credibility with banks and vendors improved considerably once the CFO stepped in. It gave us the confidence to grow the business without constantly worrying about financial roadblocks.”
Why this Matters for Manufacturers
What TK Mold experienced is common.
Many small to mid-sized manufacturers operate without dedicated financial leadership—not because they don’t need it, but because they don’t realize what’s possible. Or they assume a CFO is only viable for larger firms.
The truth is, fractional CFOs offer strategic expertise on a part-time basis—providing high-level impact without the cost of a full-time hire.
For TK Mold, the investment paid for itself many times over. With Weist’s guidance, they gained confidence not just in their finances, but in their long-term growth plan. According to Barr, the stress went down, and the focus shifted back to running the business, not reacting to it.
What to Do If This Sounds Familiar
If you’re still managing financials reactively or relying solely on historical data without a clear view forward, you’re not alone. But you may be operating with blind spots that a fractional CFO could help uncover and resolve.
This isn’t about adding overhead. It’s about unlocking clarity, freeing up leadership time, and creating a roadmap for growth.
Want to see what this could look like for your business? Let’s start with a conversation: no pressure, no obligation.