Crystal Braun, MBA
Crystal Braun, MBA, is a results-driven financial professional with a strong track record in accounting leadership, financial management, and operational excellence. She currently serves as Finance Manager at HAMLET PROTEIN, where she brings a detail-focused and analytical approach to financial planning, reporting, and strategic decision-making. With experience across manufacturing and industrial organizations, Crystal is known for her ability to strengthen financial controls, improve processes, and support business growth through data-driven insights.
Prior to joining HAMLET PROTEIN, Crystal held several progressive leadership roles including Financial Controller at Midway Products Group, North American Controller at Master Fluid Solutions, and Controller at Randall Bearings, Inc. Across these positions, she led balance sheet reviews, audits, budgeting, and capital planning while partnering closely with operations and executive leadership. Her early career in public accounting with Reichenbach & Steiner, CPAs provided a strong technical foundation that continues to inform her disciplined and precise approach to finance.
Crystal holds a Master of Business Administration in Accounting and Business Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Bluffton University. Based in Lima, Ohio, she is respected for her integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to continuous improvement. Crystal’s career reflects a steady progression of leadership, driven by a passion for accuracy, accountability, and creating sustainable financial outcomes for the organizations she serves.
• Bluffton University- M.B.A.
• Bluffton University- Bachelor's
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of determination, strategic focus, and valuing people—building a supported, resilient team has been just as important to me as achieving financial and operational results.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mentor, Anup Hosamani, whose guidance and expertise taught me the value of learning, strategic thinking, and leading with both skill and integrity.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering manufacturing is to trust your gut, speak your mind confidently, and fight relentlessly for what you want, even in spaces where you may be the only woman at the table.