Whatcom County seeks an experienced and proven Finance Director to provide strategic planning and leadership to organization-wide financial, purchasing and payroll functions.
The Director will develop and manage the biennial budget including forecasting revenue and expenditures. They will collaborate with the County Executive to implement process improvements and efficiencies, including the efficient use of ERP software. They will supervise and develop staff, prepare comprehensive financial reports, oversee the annual State audit, and make presentations at County Council and other public meetings.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES
Provides strategic planning and leadership to manage organization-wide financial and purchasing functions including but not limited to: general ledger, preparation of annual financial report, preparation of biennial and mid-biennium budget, payroll, accounts payable, warrant processing, interfund transfers, grant accounting, and purchasing activities.
Oversees the preparation of the County budget. Provides analysis of budget requests and cost estimates, evaluates the merit of proposals and provides written recommendations and information justifying recommendations. Assists the County Executive in other areas of budget and financial management, program development and internal communications. Ensures accountability for the use of public resources. Conducts financial analysis to identify trends, forecast revenue and expenditure, and make recommendations for budget adjustments, as needed. Monitors changes in economic conditions and assesses potential impact on County’s financial stability.
Prepares comprehensive financial reports for internal and external stakeholders, including financial statements, budget variance analyses, and cash flow projections. Implements internal controls to safeguard County assets and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Monitors and maintains expenditures within approved budget. Implements cost-effective measures and uses resources and technology to effectively increase productivity.
Negotiates and reviews County service contracts to assure consistency and conformance with legal requirements, policy and program direction, and appropriate process. Negotiates contracts for services between the department and outside entities or consultants. Secures, monitors and assures compliance with grants and contracts.
Oversees and coordinates County efforts related to annual State financial audit. Responds promptly to audit findings and provides specific action plan to correct an audit finding.
Attends and participates in Council and Committee meetings, makes oral presentations, and answers budget related questions. Coordinates follow up activities as required by Council actions.
Collaborates with County Executive to develop long-term financial strategies and plans. Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support decision-making on capital projects, economic development initiatives, and other strategic priorities.
Manages effective administration of the Finance Division including team development and performance, financial management, efficient use of resources, legal compliance and timely execution of duties.
For more information please see:
Finance Director Job Description
Apply online by July 10, 2024 at www.whatcomcounty.us/jobs
The ideal candidate is a seasoned financial professional with experience in large multi-fund or governmental accounting systems. They have strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex statistical data and make sound recommendations in a changing political landscape. They have high performing project management skills and a desire to improve processes. They have exceptional personal character, solid interpersonal and public relations skills with an ability to educate a range of audiences on complex financial matters.
