Assistant Director of Finance

The Housing Authority is seeking an experienced and strategic finance professional to serve as Assistant Director of Finance. This position plays a critical leadership role in the administration of the Authority’s fiscal operations, including accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, payroll oversight, fixed assets management, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.

The Assistant Director of Finance assists in directing the financial activities of the Authority and its affiliated nonprofit entities while ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards, and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations. The successful candidate will exercise independent judgment, supervise accounting personnel, and support the Director of Finance in achieving the Authority’s financial objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Maintain all accounting and fiscal records for the Housing Authority and related nonprofit entities.
• Assist in the development, implementation, and improvement of financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Prepare financial reports, statements, budgets, and analyses for the Executive Director, Board of Commissioners, and HUD.
• Coordinate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting requirements.
• Assist with year-end closing activities, account reconciliations, and preparation of financial statements.
• Prepare journal entries, adjusting entries, and supporting schedules.
• Conduct financial analyses and recommend process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.

Budgeting & Compliance

• Assist in preparing the Authority’s annual operating budget for review and approval by management, the Board of Commissioners, and HUD.
• Monitor budget performance and recommend corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with HUD regulations, including Voucher Management System (VMS) reporting, eLOCCS requisitions, and other federal reporting requirements.
• Support adherence to GAAP, GASB, federal regulations, and Authority policies.

Payroll, Cash Management & Assets

• Oversee payroll preparation and maintenance of employee earnings records in collaboration with the Accounting Manager.
• Coordinate the timely preparation and filing of federal and state tax reports, retirement contributions, and payroll-related filings.
• Manage fixed assets and physical inventory systems.
• Analyze cash flow and prepare investment and fund transfers as necessary.

Audit & Internal Controls

• Assist external auditors with annual audits and financial statement preparation.
• Perform internal audits, financial reviews, and compliance assessments.
• Prepare and review audit adjustments and corrective action plans as needed.

Leadership & Supervision

• Supervise and mentor finance and accounting staff.
• Assist with staff training and professional development.
• Review departmental workloads and support efficient allocation of responsibilities.
• Serve as Acting Director of Finance during the Director’s absence.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university required.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master’s degree in Finance, or related graduate degree preferred.
• CPA, CGFM, or other relevant professional certification is a plus.

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible financial management experience.
• Experience in governmental, affordable housing, public housing authorities, or nonprofit organizations preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with fund accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls.
• Experience with HUD programs, including Housing Choice Voucher (HCV/Section 8) and Public Housing programs.
• Knowledge of Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) programs and Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) programs preferred.
• Experience with housing authority and property management software systems preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of accounting principles, financial management, budgeting, and governmental accounting practices.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, GASB, HUD regulations, and federal grant compliance.
• Ability to develop and implement accounting procedures, policies, and internal controls.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Ability to prepare complex financial reports and present information clearly and accurately.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, government agencies, auditors, and the public.

Special Requirements

• Must be bondable.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Connecticut driver’s license.
• Ability to pass applicable background and employment screenings.

Why Join Us?

The Housing Authority is committed to providing quality affordable housing and fostering strong communities. We offer a collaborative work environment, competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

The Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.