Please Apply at: https://budafire.org/job-opening/finance-director/

Job Summary

The Finance Director / Chief Financial Officer is responsible for planning, developing, coordinating, managing, and enhancing the fiscal and financial stability, accountability, and integrity of the district’s finances. This includes directing all accounting, budget, investment, purchasing, and payroll operations; ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations; managing the district’s financial reporting and audits; and advising executive management and the Board of Commissioners. The position also provides financial leadership and strategic direction to support the Fire Chief and Executive Management Team in long-term planning, capital improvement projects, and operational sustainability.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Management and Oversight

• Maintains a comprehensive accounting system and exercises financial control over all departments and divisions.
• Oversees day-to-day finance operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, purchasing, payroll, and project accounting.
• Coordinates and manages the collection, investment, and disbursement of all District funds.
• Develops and maintains procedures and policies for budgeting, accounting, and purchasing, and works directly with HR / Payroll Director on payroll administration.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations governing public finance and emergency services districts.
• Conducts periodic internal audits to ensure effective internal controls and adherence to established laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Oversees and maintains the general ledger in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements.

Budgeting, Reporting, and Planning

• Prepares, coordinates, and monitors the District’s annual operating and capital budgets, including the development of annual revenue estimates.
• Develops and maintains the District’s 10-Year Financial and Capital Improvement Plan.
• Prepares and presents monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to the Fire Chief, Executive Management Team, and Board of Commissioners.
• Provides financial forecasts, projections, and recommendations to guide strategic decision-making.
• Oversee the annual financial audit and coordinate with external auditors to ensure transparency and compliance.
• Participates in the District’s strategic planning and labor contract negotiation processes.

Revenue, Grants, and Debt Management

• Analyzes and reports on sales tax, property tax, and other revenue sources for forecasting and budget purposes.
• Manages issuance of debt instruments and lease-purchase agreements; works with underwriters and financial advisors on debt-related transactions.
• Identifies and pursues supplemental funding through grants or legislative opportunities; prepares necessary grant documentation, reports, and audits.
• Plans and monitors financial aspects of capital improvement projects, including revenue sources, expenses, and grant allocations.

Leadership and Organizational Support

• Supervises and mentors finance personnel; provides leadership, training, and performance evaluation.
• Serves as a key contributor at Board of Commissioners meetings; explains and defends department programs, policies, and financial decisions.
• Provides financial leadership, training, and support to department directors regarding budget processes and accounting systems.
• Represents the District in meetings with external organizations, governmental agencies, and community partners.
• Researches and implements new financial software, automation tools, and internal control processes to improve efficiency.
• Responds to inquiries and open records requests from citizens, vendors, auditors, and staff.

Other Duties

• Participates in or leads special financial projects as assigned by the Fire Chief.
• Performs related job duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, budgeting, payroll, and accounting, preferably within a governmental, fire service, or emergency services organization.
• Experience using modern financial software systems and technology products.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and/or Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) designation highly desirable.
• Experience working with Boards of Commissioners and Department Heads.
• Experience managing and supervising professional staff in a public-sector organization.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of governmental accounting, budgeting, auditing, and financial reporting standards (GAAP and GASB).
• Knowledge of financial control, forecasting, investment, and debt management principles.
• Knowledge of inter-local agreements and governmental procurement practices.
• Knowledge of laws, ordinances, and regulations affecting emergency services districts and local governments.
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex financial data and prepare detailed reports and presentations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, elected officials, and the public.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, QuickBooks, and other business financial software applications.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

Work is primarily sedentary and performed in an office setting. Physical requirements include the ability to lift or carry up to 15 pounds, visual acuity, speech and hearing, hand-eye coordination, and manual dexterity to operate a computer and office equipment. Extended periods of sitting and computer work are required. The position may occasionally require attendance at evening or weekend meetings. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Disclaimer
The duties listed above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work
performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required.
The District reserves the right to amend or change this job description as necessary.
This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.