What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller/ Deputy Director of Finance position at City of Farmers Branch?
Target Hiring Range: $111,643.19 to 124,047.99
The Controller / Deputy Director of Finance provides executive-level operational leadership for the City’s financial operations and serves as the second-in-command to the Finance Director. This position ensures the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of the City’s financial systems by overseeing accounting, revenue operations, procurement, grants administration, internal controls, financial reporting, and audit activities. The Controller leads the development of the City’s ACFR, manages the annual external audit process, and directs improvements in financial systems, processes, and internal controls. The Controller provides advanced financial and technical expertise to support executive decision-making and serves as Acting Finance Director when designated.
Financial Operations Leadership & Internal Control Oversight (35%)
Skill in: financial analysis, audit coordination, operational leadership, advanced reporting, process improvement, problem solving, communication and presentation
Ability to: manage complex operational functions, improve financial processes, supervise and develop staff, implement standards, communicate clearly to all levels of the organization, and maintain confidentiality and professional conduct
Licenses And Certificates
Work requires supervising and monitoring performance for a regular group of employees including hiring recommendation input, evaluations, work prioritization, and coordination of operational implementation needs.
The Controller / Deputy Director of Finance provides executive-level operational leadership for the City’s financial operations and serves as the second-in-command to the Finance Director. This position ensures the accuracy, transparency, and integrity of the City’s financial systems by overseeing accounting, revenue operations, procurement, grants administration, internal controls, financial reporting, and audit activities. The Controller leads the development of the City’s ACFR, manages the annual external audit process, and directs improvements in financial systems, processes, and internal controls. The Controller provides advanced financial and technical expertise to support executive decision-making and serves as Acting Finance Director when designated.
Financial Operations Leadership & Internal Control Oversight (35%)
- Oversees the integrity, accuracy, and transparency of the City’s financial records and general ledger structure.
- Reviews and approves financial transactions, journal entries, and reconciliation standards to ensure compliance and accuracy.
- Directs month-end and year-end closing processes and ensures timely completion of financial statements.
- Establishes, implements, and monitors internal control practices to safeguard City assets and support audit compliance.
- Oversees treasury activities, cash handling procedures, bank reconciliations, and investment reporting.
- Leads the preparation and publication of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) in accordance with GASB and GFOA standards.
- Coordinates and manages the annual external audit, including scheduling, documentation, and resolution of audit findings.
- Oversees compliance with federal and state regulations, grant reporting requirements, and Single Audit standards.
- Ensures implementation, enforcement, and documentation of corrective actions.
- Leads ERP and related financial system configuration, optimization, and integration improvements.
- Develops and enforces financial policies, standardized workflows, and operational procedures.
- Evaluates financial systems and reporting tools for modernization and automation opportunities.
- Ensures regulatory compliance with governmental accounting standards and financial transparency requirements.
- Provides advanced financial analysis and operational insight to support executive decision-making.
- Prepares financial briefing material and reporting for senior leadership and external stakeholders.
- Represents the Finance Department in collaborative internal initiatives and intergovernmental interactions.
- Serves as Acting Finance Director when designated.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance from an accredited institution
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) required
- Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible financial experience, including at least 3 years in a supervisory capacity, preferably in municipal government.
- Demonstrated experience managing financial operations, audit preparation, and financial reporting
- Advanced ERP and Excel financial modeling proficiency (Tyler Munis preferred)
Skill in: financial analysis, audit coordination, operational leadership, advanced reporting, process improvement, problem solving, communication and presentation
Ability to: manage complex operational functions, improve financial processes, supervise and develop staff, implement standards, communicate clearly to all levels of the organization, and maintain confidentiality and professional conduct
Licenses And Certificates
- CPA license in good standing required
- CGFO preferred
Work requires supervising and monitoring performance for a regular group of employees including hiring recommendation input, evaluations, work prioritization, and coordination of operational implementation needs.
Salary : $111,643 - $124,048