Philip Hunt
CFO
STAR Employee of the Month – May 2025: Philip Hunt
If there’s one word to describe Philip Hunt, it’s dedicated—but even that feels like an understatement. For nearly 21 years, Philip has been a steady, brilliant presence at Harbin Lumber Company, quietly holding together the financial framework of our operation with precision, heart, and a good dose of humor.
Philip currently serves as Harbin’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), but his journey with us began much earlier—and in a different role altogether.
“Philip came to work at Harbin Lumber in 2004 as Senior Accountant. He actually had a computer science degree from Georgia Tech but had spent several years in accounting at his parents appliance store and for another company. While he didn’t have a traditional accounting background, he came with strong computer skills, a great attitude, and a willingness to learn and work hard. When Roger Bates resigned as CFO in 2008 he recommended Philip for the CFO role, but Philip declined and another replacement was hired. When that replacement also resigned less than a year later, Philip finally accepted the role of CFO in 2009. Over the last 16 years he has helped lead this company through the housing downturn of the late 2000’s, the emergence from the downturn, and the uncertainty and wild roller coaster ride of the COVID pandemic. The company has grown and prospered and he is leaving it better and stronger than when he started. Thank you for all you have done”. – Westley Harbin, President
What does a typical day look like for Harbin’s CFO? According to Philip, “That’s a hard question… because what day is it?” He laughs, “Some days are about putting out fires—questions about taxes, trucks, software issues—other days I’m balancing accounts or overseeing the fleet.” And it’s no small fleet. Harbin currently operates around 81 trucks, in addition to forklifts and trailers. Between fleet management, taxes (Philip keeps track of over 40 kinds!), and day-to-day financial oversight, it’s clear that the CFO role at Harbin is no desk job. “I used to hate taxes and fleet,” Philip admits, “but I realized if we didn’t have them, there wouldn’t be a full-time CFO position!”
Around the corporate office, Philip has long been known as Harbin’s Swiss Army knife—a jack-of-all-trades who never hesitated to jump in wherever help was needed. While his job title reads CFO, Philip’s contributions have gone far beyond the financial realm. Whether it was fixing plumbing and electrical issues, assisting with office maintenance, loading boxes, or making sure we never ran out of paper or toner, Philip has done it all—and done it with a smile. His willingness to help, regardless of the task, has left a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to work alongside him. It’s no wonder his nickname around here is “Frugal Phil”—a badge of honor that reflects not only his financial wisdom, but also his discipline and dedication. That frugality paid off: Philip is retiring early, and we couldn’t be more excited for him as he embarks on this next chapter. If you don’t know the story behind his PBJ days, you should ask—it’s a legendary tale of perseverance and goal-setting. One thing’s for sure: when Philip sets his mind to something, he makes it happen.
“Philip has been our CFO during some of the most challenging times in the company’s history. From the Great Recession through Covid and beyond, a couple of words come to mind when I think of Philip: calm and steady. It didn’t matter what challenges we were dealing with; I could always count on Philip to be the guy that never changed in his beliefs, decisions and work ethic. I am not sure what the perfect CFO looks like, but Philip was certainly perfect for us. Thanks for all you have done and enjoy your retirement! “- Chris Moon, CEO
When asked what he enjoys about working at Harbin, Philip doesn’t hesitate: “Working for a family-owned company makes all the difference. We’re big enough to challenge you, but small enough that everyone can make an impact.” That sense of family is deeply rooted in his story. In fact, it was through a friend of his wife that Philip first heard about the opportunity at Harbin. “I was commuting to Gainesville at the time, and this was a chance to work closer to home.” One coffee shop interview later—with Roger Bates—he was hired.
Over the years, Philip has been deeply influenced by a few key individuals. “Roger taught me everything I know about being a CFO,” he says. “He was my mentor, and even after he left, he was always just a phone call away.” Philip also speaks highly of CEO Chris Moon: “His grasp of our financials is unmatched. He’ll catch things I miss, which is both terrifying and amazing,” he jokes. “He’s been a great leader and friend.” But perhaps no one has had a bigger impact in recent years than Kelly Roper. “She’s the reason I can retire in May,” Philip says. “Kelly suffered through months of training to be cross-trained in all things CFO. Her integrity and dedication are unmatched.” With a smirk, he adds, “Thank you, Kelly, for putting up with me—and my dementia—for the last eight years.”
When Philip thinks back over his years at Harbin, one story springs to mind—the Great Frisbee Incident. “It was Safety Week, we were in a disc golf competition at the corporate office, and Westley accidentally nailed me in the back of the head with a frisbee… gave me a concussion. I hit the ground, looked up to see who I needed to pummel, and it was Westley… so I had to let it go.” It’s a tale that perfectly blends humor, humility, and the close knit bonds that make Harbin feel like family.
As Philip prepares for retirement this May, he’s got big plans—starting with a 40-day hike on the Appalachian Trail. “It’s been a lifelong goal of mine, by next summer, I hope to make it all the way to Maine.” He also plans to stay active in his church community, where he’s currently leading a $3 million renovation campaign. “I have a feeling the pastor’s going to say, ‘You’re retired now, so we expect you here every day!’ he laughs.
On the home front, Philip is supported by his wife, Ann, who he says “will continue working to support my hiking endeavors.” His family includes three children—Catherine Young, Tyler Hunt, and Micah Hunt—and three beloved dogs.
For over two decades, Philip has been a steady presence at Harbin—problem solver, number cruncher, mentor, handyman, and friend. His impact is etched in every spreadsheet, every training session, and every tax paid. His retirement is bittersweet: while we’ll miss his unmatched knowledge and wit around the office, we’re thrilled to see him step into this next exciting chapter.
Congratulations, Philip, and thank you for everything you’ve done. Harbin is better because of you!