Lewis Brubaker: A Visionary Financial Manager with Proven Excellence
Lewis Brubaker is a highly accomplished financial manager with over 25 years of expertise in corporate finance, strategic planning, and organizational leadership. Based in Mechanicsville, Virginia, he has established himself as a leader in the financial domain, known for his innovative strategies and ability to navigate complex financial landscapes. From his educational foundation at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University to his impactful roles in various organizations, Brubaker has demonstrated unparalleled commitment and skill. This article explores his educational background, professional journey, and contributions to the financial industry, focusing on his tenure at Corsicana Mattress Company and other key milestones.
Educational Background
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University – Pamplin College of Business
Lewis Brubaker graduated from Virginia Tech’s Pamplin College of Business in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. During his academic journey, he was an active member of Beta Alpha Psi, an honor organization for financial information students and professionals. His education provided him with a strong foundation in accounting principles, strategic financial management, and leadership skills, all of which have significantly influenced his professional career.
Lee Davis High School
Before attending Virginia Tech, Brubaker completed his high school education at Lee Davis High School, where he began to cultivate his passion for numbers and problem-solving. These early interests would later shape his successful career in finance and accounting.
Professional Career Overview
Corsicana Mattress Company
Brubaker joined Corsicana Mattress Company as an Accounting Manager in April 2021 following the company’s acquisition of Symbol Mattress. His responsibilities included overseeing the conversion of Symbol Mattress’s business operations to align with Corsicana’s methodologies. Despite his short tenure, he played a critical role in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining operational efficiency during this period of change.
Symbol Mattress
Prior to his role at Corsicana, Brubaker served as the Vice President of Finance and Treasurer at Symbol Mattress from June 2019 to April 2021. In this capacity, he prepared essential documents for the sale of Symbol Mattress, managed audits, and coordinated with equity firms. His achievements included securing three increases to the company’s equity line, upgrading IT systems, and converting the inventory process from manual to perpetual. These efforts significantly enhanced the company’s operational capabilities and financial stability.
Room Store
Brubaker held several critical roles at Room Store, including Senior Vice President (SVP) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) from 2001 to 2012. As part of a six-person senior management team, he helped steer the company out of its parent company’s bankruptcy, enabling growth in revenue and expansion of store locations. Brubaker’s contributions included establishing a stock option plan for key employees and overseeing accounting, treasury, and financial reporting functions. He also played an instrumental role in acquiring Mattress Discounters Group LLC, a highly successful 84-store bedding retailer.
Southern Title Insurance Corporation
As the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Southern Title Insurance Corporation, Brubaker was responsible for accounting, treasury, regulatory filings, and compliance with GAAP standards. His leadership helped guide the company through a takeover and subsequent sale by the Resolution Trust Corporation. His efforts in expanding operations into new states and setting up joint ventures were pivotal in the company’s growth.
Produce Source Partners
From 2014 to 2015, Brubaker served as Controller at Produce Source Partners, where he managed financial operations and implemented effective accounting practices. His role was vital in streamlining the organization’s financial processes and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Key Achievements
Strategic Acquisitions and Turnarounds
One of Brubaker’s most notable achievements was his involvement in acquiring and integrating assets from Rhodes Furniture and Mattress Discounters. He played a pivotal role in directing due diligence, creating financial projections, and managing the operational integration of these companies. These strategic acquisitions contributed significantly to organizational growth and profitability.
Leadership in Compliance and Controls
Brubaker has consistently demonstrated excellence in regulatory compliance and financial controls. At Symbol Mattress, he led the documentation of procedures to ensure adherence to Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) regulations. His proactive approach to compliance has been instrumental in maintaining transparency and accountability within the organizations he has served.
Operational Excellence
Throughout his career, Brubaker has been a strong advocate for operational efficiency. By implementing standardized processes and reporting systems, he has empowered management teams with accurate financial information necessary for sound decision-making. His leadership in system upgrades and transitions has been critical to streamlining operations and enhancing organizational performance.
Skills and Expertise
Core Competencies
- Strategic Planning: Brubaker excels in crafting and executing financial strategies that drive organizational growth and stability.
- Change Management: He has a proven ability to lead companies through significant transitions, including mergers, acquisitions, and operational realignments.
- Budgeting and Forecasting: His expertise in financial projections and cost control has consistently delivered measurable results.
- Team Leadership: Brubaker is known for fostering professional development among his teams, ensuring a collaborative and productive work environment.
- Regulatory Compliance: His thorough understanding of regulatory frameworks ensures adherence to financial and operational standards.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in financial reporting tools and ERP systems
- Expertise in GAAP, SOX, and other regulatory compliance frameworks
- Advanced knowledge of payroll and HR systems
Community and Personal Life
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Brubaker is deeply committed to his community. Based in Mechanicsville, Virginia, he operates Brubaker Accounting Services, LLC, offering tax and accounting services to local businesses and individuals. His dedication to helping others extends beyond his professional life, showcasing his integrity and moral character.
Conclusion
Lewis Brubaker is more than just a financial manager; he is a visionary leader who combines strategic acumen with operational expertise. His extensive experience across diverse industries, including retail, insurance, and manufacturing, underscores his versatility and adaptability. Brubaker’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and integrity has left an indelible mark on every organization he has been a part of. For those seeking a skilled and seasoned financial leader, Brubaker stands as a beacon of professionalism and achievement.