Practical insights for distributors and manufacturers on cash, inventory, and ERP-driven automation
Austin, Texas — Driven by DCKAP features Pete Chrobak, CFO of Duncan-Parnell, in a new episode exploring how finance leaders can strengthen cash flow, manage inventory, and use automation to scale efficiently. Chrobak offers practical benchmarks for owner-led and mid-market companies evaluating when to hire a CFO, how to approach acquisitions, and where technology makes the biggest impact.
Key highlights:
- Cash and inventory discipline: keep three months of cash on hand and watch inventory turns closely.
- Scaling with technology: AR/AP automation and ERP-integrated receivables free up staff time and reduce errors.
- When to hire a CFO: $10–15M revenue is often the turning point, starting with fractional support before going full-time.
Cash First, Inventory Next
Chrobak stresses that strong cash management is the lifeline of any business. Sales growth means little if inventory is piling up or expenses are unchecked. He encourages leaders to monitor turns, trim excess stock, and keep at least three months of operating cash on hand.
“Cash is king. Your sales could be really good, but you’ve got to get your inventory in order,” he said.
Automate to Scale
Rather than adding headcount as the company expanded, Duncan-Parnell invested in AR and AP automation to streamline workflows. The change saved about 30% of the receivables team’s time, while integrated receivables now match payments to invoices automatically. Chrobak cautions, however, that automation only delivers results if the underlying processes are sound.
When to Bring on a CFO
Early on, most businesses can rely on accountants and tax advisors, but at a certain point more strategic oversight is needed. Chrobak notes that around $10–15 million in revenue is when companies often benefit from CFO expertise, starting part-time and transitioning to full-time as the business grows.
How Today’s CFO Blends Finance, Operations, and Technology
Chrobak’s perspective shows how today’s CFO blends finance, operations, and technology. For distributors and manufacturers, the takeaways are clear: hire finance leadership at the right time, keep cash and inventory in check, and invest in automation that supports growth without adding complexity.
More Information
- For more details, visit the Driven Podcast portal or tune in on YouTube or Spotify.
- For information about ERP integration, check out the DCKAP Distributor Blog.
- Subscribe to the Driven by DCKAP Podcast.
About the Driven Podcast
The Driven by DCKAP Podcast is an audio and video show that explores leaders’ stories, digital journeys, and insights on trends in B2B and distribution. The podcast is hosted by Karthik Chidambaram, Founder & CEO of DCKAP, who grew the company from a start up to a global team of more than 200 employees. DCKAP earns several trust badges by G2.com, the world’s largest tech software marketplace, including category “Leader”, “High Performer Americas” and “Users Most Likely to Recommend.”
About DCKAP
DCKAP is a leader in digital solutions that help distributors systems’ talk to each other. Its technology solutions simplify software integrations, e-commerce, and product information management for B2B companies. DCKAP’s flagship product, DCKAP Integrator, helps distributors and manufacturers to automate data between ERP, e-commerce, and CRM systems. Founded in 2005, DCKAP is a global and distributed team headquartered in Austin, TX. Visit DCKAP at dckap.com or follow on LinkedIn.
About Duncan-Parnell
Duncan-Parnell is an independent, family-owned company that has been operating since 1946, providing a diverse portfolio of products and services to the construction, geospatial, and design industries. Its offerings include reprographics and signage, geospatial equipment, construction software, unmanned drone solutions, and cloud-based information management systems. With nearly two dozen locations across the Southeast, Duncan-Parnell has grown into a trusted supplier of hardware, software, and services that deliver greater efficiency and productivity for contractors, engineers, surveyors, architects, and designers. Visit www.duncan-parnell.com.
