BACKBONE CFO - Key Persons


Jim Emerich - CFO, Founder

Job Titles:
  • CFO
  • Founder
Jim Emerich holds the title of both founder of and CFO at Backbone CFO. His professional career boasts many accomplishments, including Chief Financial Officer at Parts Life Inc. During his time at PLI, he led efforts to acquire DeVal Life Cycle Support (formerly DeVal Corporation), as well as LC Engineers, Inc. and successfully integrated both companies into the PLI family. He has closed over $20M in financing deals including acquisition, real estate, working capital and equipment financing. Though he experienced an exciting career trajectory, in his heart he knew small business was always near and dear. This passion ultimately led him to focus on launching Backbone CFO with the primary purpose of creating clarity for growth-minded business owners. Jim's desire is to provide a true business partner to the small businesses who make up the backbone of the economy. He is a beneficiary of thriving small businesses, knowing firsthand that when small businesses grow, they produce an abundance of blessing for their customers, suppliers, employees, and owners.

Kristen Harden

Job Titles:
  • Associate Fractional CFO

Melissa Zinni - CFO

Job Titles:
  • CFO
  • Senior Financial Executive
Melissa Zinni is a senior financial executive with over 20 years of expertise in large organizations. She has held the position of Chief Financial Officer for Hampton Behavioral Health Center and Maryville, Incorporated, where she combined her financial expertise with leadership, people operations, and behavioral knowledge. Her passion for developing strategic plans for operational and long-term financial success has given her countless interactions with C-Suite executives and directors. As a result of her detail-oriented work ethic, Melissa has also developed financial software and managed information systems for more than 300 users in 17 different locations. She is passionate about financial success and is on a continuous quest to find new and creative tools that lead to a fruitful financial journey for all business entities under her financial leadership.

Nicole Philippi

Job Titles:
  • Executive Assistant

Payton Sutherland

Job Titles:
  • Client Finance Manager

Stephanie Stocker

Job Titles:
  • Tax Advisor

Steven Cooper - CFO

Job Titles:
  • CFO
Steve is a CFO with a passion for identifying and implementing financial strategies to help businesses and their owners achieve significant growth, and increased profitability. His professional achievements include Co-Founder of Technology Resource Corporation. In his time at TRC, he held titles of both CFO and COO, and experienced growth in revenue to $10M in 18 years. In joining Backbone CFO, Steve looks forward to leveraging his years of experience to help other entrepreneurs not just achieve, but exceed their goals.