Chief Financial Officer

City of Burlington NC•Burlington, NC

About The Position

The City of Burlington Finance Department manages the City's financial resources and promotes sound financial practices, accountability, and regulatory compliance. Its responsibilities include accounting, financial reporting, treasury management, debt administration, payroll, purchasing, accounts payable, employee insurance benefits, risk management, annual operating and capital budgets, long-range financial planning, and capital improvement initiatives. The Finance Director serves as a steward of public funds, promoting ethical conduct, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability. The role ensures that public funds are managed appropriately and that financial transactions, expenditures, and resource allocations comply with laws, approved budgets, funding restrictions, and City policies. The position directs the City's budgeting and financial reporting functions, oversees debt issuances and financial systems, ensures compliance with accounting standards and regulations, supervises Finance Department personnel, and serves as the primary liaison with external auditors. It also provides financial guidance to City departments and supports purchasing, budget management, and expenditure monitoring. The role requires independent judgment, leadership, financial expertise, and a commitment to service for City employees and the Burlington community.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or a related area.
Seven to nine years of progressively responsible experience in a related field.
Supervisory experience.
Valid North Carolina driver's license.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Extensive knowledge of governmental accounting principles, including GAAP and GASB standards, municipal finance, budgeting, treasury management, debt administration, and risk management.
Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and municipal personnel practices.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, financial accounting software, and computerized financial management systems.
Ability to lead, supervise, delegate, and develop employees while managing multiple departmental functions.
Ability to prepare, analyze, and interpret financial statements, budgets, and reports.
Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to exercise independent judgment, maintain confidentiality, and establish effective working relationships with employees, management, and the public.

Responsibilities

Lead and promote ethical financial practices, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability in managing public resources.
Direct and oversee Finance Department functions, personnel, and resources, including accounting, payroll, treasury management, purchasing, accounts payable, debt management, employee benefits, and risk management.
Establish and administer departmental policies, procedures, and operational priorities.
Coordinate and manage City debt issuances, including bonds and capital lease financing, and ensure compliance with debt covenants.
Oversee employee insurance benefit administration and education, as well as City risk management and liability insurance programs.
Direct preparation, administration, and monitoring of the City's annual operating and capital budgets and Capital Improvement Plan.
Oversee departmental budget preparation, budget transfers, amendments, and expenditure monitoring.
Ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial records, the general ledger, financial systems, and financial statements.
Coordinate annual financial audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditing firms.
Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB standards, and applicable local, state, and federal requirements.
Supervise, develop, and evaluate Finance Department personnel, promoting accountability, efficiency, and professional growth.
Provide financial guidance and support to other City departments regarding purchasing, budgeting, and expenditure management.
Maintain effective working relationships with City employees, external agencies, vendors, and the general public.
Perform other related duties as required.