G. Howard Ember, Jr. is a distinguished finance executive with over four decades of experience in corporate financial management, primarily within the confectionery sector. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from DePaul University and became a Certified Public Accountant early in his career. Ember began his professional journey at a prominent Chicago-based accounting firm, where he honed his expertise in auditing and financial analysis, before transitioning to industry roles that emphasized strategic financial planning and operational efficiency. In 1985, Ember joined Tootsie Roll Industries, Inc., starting as a staff accountant and quickly ascending through key positions, including Director of Accounting and Controller. Appointed Vice President of Finance in 2000, he has played a pivotal role in safeguarding the company's financial stability amid fluctuating market conditions. Notable achievements include spearheading initiatives that optimized supply chain costs, resulting in multimillion-dollar savings, and guiding Tootsie Roll through complex SEC compliance and IFRS transitions with flawless execution. Today, as Vice President of Finance, Ember oversees all aspects of the company's financial operations, from budgeting and forecasting to treasury management, risk assessment, and investor relations. His prudent leadership has been instrumental in maintaining Tootsie Roll's remarkable record of 55 consecutive years of dividend payments, underscoring his commitment to long-term shareholder value and fiscal discipline.