Director of Finance

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Work involves responsibility for accounting, investing, data processing, auditing, Operating and Capital budgets development, assessment, tax collection, payroll, and purchasing functions. Duties include policy recommendation, departmental and municipal planning, and the direction and administration of departmental activities. This position also has the responsibility for making the most difficult financial management technical decisions. The work requires that the employee have thorough knowledge, skill and ability in every phase of municipal financial management and good knowledge of the administration of all municipal functions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Drafts and recommends policy to the Mayor and plans for the implementation of financial goals and objectives.
2. Directs the operations of the Finance Department through various department heads and evaluates and administers financial management programs such as accounting and financial reporting, budgeting, data processing service, payroll, control services, cash management, internal and external auditing, purchasing, property assessment, and tax collection.
3. Oversees and coordinates the development of Operating and Capital budgets. Assist Mayor in explaining and presents budget recommendations to the City Council.
4. Directs and controls the expenditure of city and Department fund allocations within the constraints of approved budgets.
5. Coordinate the efforts of external auditors in their review of city financial management.
6. Monitors the city's debt instruments for refunding opportunities and the timely repayment of dept. Prepares various documents and filings related to the issuance of municipal bonds. Oversees bond sales and closings.
7. Prepares financial information for bond prospectus.
8. Monitors loss prevention and safety programs as they relate to risk management; directs insurance negotiations, selects insurance brokers and carriers and places insurance.
   

A master's degree from a recognized college or university in business administration, public administration or closely related field and at least seven years’ experience in the field of accounting, auditing or municipal finance administration, of which at least three years shall have been in a responsible supervisory position, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Salary Range: $140,000 - $160,000 (Commensurate with Experience)

THE CITY OF WEST HAVEN IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER