About Us
Ellen McIlhenny
Founder & Fractional CFO • CFO Plus Services
Ellen has been helping businesses save money, maximize value, and plan for sustainable growth for more than 30 years. As a fractional CFO, she partners with manufacturers, construction companies, wholesale distributors, and a wide range of service-based businesses to deliver strategic financial leadership and peace of mind.
Before founding CFO Plus Services, Ellen served as a corporate Chief Financial Officer and Controller in mid-sized and privately held companies, where she gained deep expertise in transition management, succession planning, and turning around underperforming operations.
In addition to her consulting work, Ellen is a published author, vlogger, and sought-after public speaker. Her business novel, The Big Turnaround – How Bad Management Nearly Destroyed an Exceptional Company, tackles many of the most common challenges facing small and mid-sized business owners today. The book was a finalist for the 2018 Author Academy Award in the Business & Investing category.
Carlson Mcilhenny
Director of Bookkeeping
Carlson graduated from Virginia Tech in 2023 with a bachelor's degree in Public Relations. During his time at Virginia Tech, he collaborated directly with various clients, delivering a range of professional services including news releases, speech manuscripts, and program communications.
Notably, he worked with The School of Neuroscience at Virginia Tech to support the rollout of their new Bridge Experience Program, launched in fall 2024.
Upon graduation, Carlson joined CFO Plus Services as an integral team member and now leads the Bookkeeping division, overseeing daily operations with precision and a client-first approach.
An Eagle Scout since 2019, Carlson is driven by a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence in everything he does. Above all, he values his family and friends.