Mathias Mäntele

Advisor @ Proteca Group

About

As a Chief Financial Officer with over two decades of experience, I possess a proven track record in driving financial strategies that advance growth and operational excellence. My expertise encompasses comprehensive administrative and financial management, including core finance functions (treasury, FP&A, accounting, tax, etc.), strategic oversight of HR, safety, IT, legal and procurement, alongside corporate restructuring, risk management and governance, with significant contributions across the agribusiness, automotive and technology sectors. I am passionate about building criteria-based financial and legal infrastructures that support sustainable growth and enhance stakeholder value. My leadership philosophy centers on cultivating strong commitments, acting with purpose, and inspiring by example. Fluent in Portuguese, German, and English, I thrive in multicultural environments and am skilled at navigating complex international markets. I seek opportunities to apply my strategic vision and execution capabilities to high-level challenges, contributing to the transformation and success of organizations.

Country

Brazil

City

São Paulo

Industry

Paper & Forest Products

Skill

Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A), Treasury Management, Financial Reporting (GAAP, IFRS), Tax Planning, Cost Management, Financial Controlling, Budgeting & Forecasting, Financial Audits, Cash Flow Management, Accounting, Management Accounting, Business Strategy, Corporate Restructuring, Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), Turnaround Management, Risk Management, Corporate Governance, Stakeholder Management, Strategic Negotiations, Business Planning

Experience

Advisor

Proteca Group

2025-7 - Present · 1 yr 3 mos

Brazil

CFO - Finance & Administration Director

Proteca Group

2015-9 - 2025-6 · 9 yrs 10 mos

Brazil

As CFO, I played a vital role in the growth of PROTECA Group, transforming it from a R$50M biological asset forestry project into a R$500M asset agro-industrial enterprise with 250 employees. I professionalized finance, administration, procurement, and HR, ensuring KPMG-audited transparency. I designed and implemented management accounting systems for strategic planning and cost control, overseeing multimillion investments in agro-industrial facilities, and led HR/labor compliance, contributing to FSC certification and achieving a low turnover rate. I also enhanced corporate legal governance, strengthening partner and investor relationships. Functions: Treasury, Tax & Fiscal, FP&A, Accounting, Legal, Procurement, IT, and HR. www.proteca.com.br

Executive Director

ACONNECTA Consulting

2014-5 - 2015-8 · 1 yr 4 mos

Brazil

Provided in-company consulting on business development, start-ups, business planning, process optimization, and organizational structuring.

Executive Manager - Finance & Administration

MGPRESS Metalúrgica Industrial

2013-9 - 2014-4 · 8 mos

Brazil

Led a critical financial and structural turnaround for this R$80M revenue automotive supplier with 380 employees, restoring economic stability during a severe crisis. I implemented planning and monitoring tools, re-establishing operational control, and conducted intensive negotiations with banks, clients, suppliers, and unions to secure support for recovery. Managed cash flow under extreme financial stress, guiding the company through a highly critical period. Functions: Treasury, Tax & Fiscal, FP&A, Accounting, Procurement, IT, and HR.

Finance and Controlling Manager (CFO) – KATHREIN Automotive (Brasil)

KATHREIN Group (Brasil)

2010-8 - 2013-2 · 2 yrs 7 mos

Brazil

Managed post-M&A financial integration and turnaround for the newly acquired Brazilian automotive division (R$60M revenue, 300 employees), ensuring seamless business continuity. I restructured finance and IT departments, reducing costs while adhering to regulatory standards. Introduced reporting, pricing, and planning systems, integrating them into the global division's framework, and led due diligence for growth initiatives, providing analytical foundations for strategic decisions. Functions: Treasury, Tax & Fiscal, FP&A, Accounting, and IT.

Finance and Controlling Manager – KATHREIN Mobilcom (Brasil)

KATHREIN Group (Brasil)

2004-6 - 2012-12 · 8 yrs 7 mos

Brazil

During 2010 to 2012, I simultaneously managed both Automotive and Telecom divisions (R$50M annual revenue, 100 employees). I established robust financial, controlling, and reporting structures, ensuring precise operations and effective parent company relations. Implemented tax planning and international cash flow strategies, reducing risks and ensuring compliance. Acted as a strategic consultant for pricing and sales, driving revenue and margin gains, and oversaw outsourced services while fostering positive labor relations. Functions: Treasury, Tax & Fiscal, FP&A, Accounting, Legal, HR, and IT.

Assistant to the CEO

KATHREIN Group (Brasil)

2001-4 - 2004-5 · 3 yrs 2 mos

Brazil

Provided strategic and financial support to the Managing Partner, contributing to executive decision-making and operational planning.

Project Manager

Câmara de Comércio e Industria Brasil-Alemanha de São Paulo

2000-1 - 2001-3 · 1 yr 3 mos

Brazil

Managed bilateral trade and investment projects between Brazil and Germany. Coordinated business development initiatives and sector-specific studies to promote international cooperation.