Director of Budget

Job Description

Join the Stafford County team and enjoy a fulfilling public service career with competitive benefits, including long-term financial security through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS).

Our mission is simple yet powerful: through a culture of enthusiasm, creativity, and continuous improvement, we strive to make a meaningful difference. As a key leader in Stafford County, VA, the Director of Budget plays a critical role in turning that vision into reality, ensuring our financial strategies align with community priorities, drive innovation, and support responsible stewardship of public resources.

The FY2026 Adopted Budget has an All-Funds revenue of just under $1.2 billion, which represents a 7.9% increase over the prior year. The General Fund Operating Revenues adopted in FY2026 were $439.3M, of which $176.0M supported School Operating activities.

As Stafford County embarks on critical structural changes to the development and presentation of our annual budget, the Director of Budget will play a central role in leading this complex, countywide effort. This includes spearheading our move to a priority-based budgeting model, ensuring our fiscal decisions are more closely aligned with community priorities and strategic goals. In addition, they will play a crucial role in advancing data transparency initiatives, thereby further strengthening public trust and accountability.

Relationship-building is key to this role, and the Director of Budget must be able to foster strong connections with departments, Stafford County Public Schools, County Administration, the Board of Supervisors, and other stakeholders. Grounded in Stafford's values and committed to open communication, they will be focused on understanding the needs of our growing community and ensuring that our budget reflects those priorities.

As the leader of the Budget and Management Department, the position will oversee a talented team of four and provide cross-functional support to our Financial Services, including Procurement and Finance teams. The continued success of the new Director of Budget will require embracing and leveraging new technologies to promote continuous improvement. This individual will need to be adept at creating a culture that fosters trust and cooperation.

If you are a collaborative leader with a passion for public service, a sharp financial mind, and a commitment to making a lasting impact, we invite you to bring your expertise to our team.

Compensation and Benefits:

Stafford County offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. The hiring range for this position starts at $124,400 and is negotiable up to $180,000, based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

• Virginia Retirement System (VRS) – offering long-term financial security for eligible employees. Specific plan type and benefits will vary.

• Optional 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan through Voya for additional retirement savings.

• Paid leave

• Annual leave starting at 96 hours per year (accruals increase based on years of service)
• Sick leave – 96 hours per year
• 13 Paid Holidays each year
• Additional leave available, such as Parental Leave and Community Volunteer Leave
• Medical Coverage with the choice between three plans (Premium, Core, or High-Deductible Health Plan with HSA), including vision and prescription coverage
• Dental Coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Group Life Insurance (through VRS)
• Other voluntary benefits
• Professional dues and conference expenses

Examples of Duties

This position performs highly skilled, professional, and technical work, overseeing financial and analytical consultation for County departments in areas such as operating and capital budgeting, long-term financial planning, and performance measurement. The Director leads the development and presentation of the County's annual budget, Capital Improvement Program (CIP), and five-year financial plan.

As a key member of the financial leadership team, you'll collaborate regularly on countywide initiatives, present financial information to staff, leadership, and the public, and drive the implementation of best practices in budgeting and performance management. The Director is also responsible for preparing and presenting complex financial data and budget recommendations to the Board of Supervisors, often during public meetings. Attendance and participation at Board of Supervisors meetings, typically from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. or later, as necessary, is an essential component of this role.

Supervising a team of Budget and Management Analysts, you will have the opportunity to promote professional development, foster a culture of growth, and lead with a focus on innovation and impact. This position reports to the Chief Financial Officer and works closely with departments across the organization.

Education and Experience

A combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major work in public administration, business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field, and 8 years of experience in a role with budget management responsibilities, including 5 years in a supervisory capacity.

A minimum of 12 years of experience supporting budget cycles in a municipal budget office or a related financial operation is accepted in lieu of a degree.

Salary : $124,400 - $180,000