Challenges
As noted to the right, P31’s rapid growth underscored the need for a full-time accounting professional. The company was uncertain of the roles and experience needed for a full-time position, but needed timely assistance with its accounting. Morrison was engaged to provide interim controller/CFO level support while assessing the needs for a full-time position. The need for this position came at the peak of the COVID-19 shut down. While in an essential industry, many candidates were reluctant to consider a career move due to the overall uncertainty. Social distancing also posed challenges in interviewing and vetting candidates.
Solutions
During our interim assistance, we were able to help define the needs for the controller position. In addition, it was determined that a stronger bookkeeping position was also needed. A recommendation for a controller candidate came from one of P31’s management members. As this person had strong credentials, Morrison’s efforts shifted to interviewing and vetting this candidate. Morrison also located and placed a solid bookkeeper using our established search resources and interviewing via video conferencing.
Successes
The controller candidate, who was eventually hired, underwent Morrison’s vetting process, including behavioral interviews and our proprietary accounting skills assessment. The candidate also participated in a Hogan psychometric assessment as a final gauge for fit. The new bookkeeper settled into the position quickly and effectively. Morrison’s unique approach allowed us to pivot our efforts and customize them for these roles and circumstances, resulting in the highest value for P31.
About the client
Founded in 2016 in Oroville, California, P31 Enterprises originally provided administrative services for the Bamford family of businesses, but the mostly woman-owned business had greater goals. “P31” is short for Proverbs 31, dedicated to industrious women “of noble character.” In part: 16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. 17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. 18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. P31 soon added felling and removal of dead and dying trees along roads and utility lines. The company began cleanup and debris removal in the wake of California’s devastating wildfires, including the 2018 Camp Fire. Pacific Gas & Electric engaged P31 to clear trees and brush from utility lines as part of its “line hardening” program. P31 also began “foundation work” to recover burned properties by removal of fire debris, ash, and contaminated soil. From humble beginnings in 2016, P31 grew to 74 crews and over 450 employees by 2020.
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