Odessa Chief Financial Officer

Clear Career Professionals • Odessa, TX

31d

About The Position

The City of Odessa is seeking a strategic, experienced Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to serve as the City’s senior financial leader and trusted advisor to the City Manager, who serves as the Chief Administrative Officer, and City Council. Reporting directly to the City Manager, the CFO provides executive leadership over all financial functions and ensures sound fiscal stewardship in support of organizational priorities and community needs. The CFO plans, organizes, and directs the City’s financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, debt and cash management, investments, audits, grants administration, financial reporting, and internal controls. The position oversees the Finance Department and ensures compliance with applicable federal, state, and local financial regulations and governmental accounting standards. As a key member of the executive leadership team, the CFO supports strategic planning initiatives by establishing financial benchmarks, developing long-range financial strategies, and advising on policy development, resource allocation, and financial sustainability. The CFO will be a collaborative and ethical financial leader with strong municipal finance experience, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to public service. The right candidate will combine technical expertise with strategic vision to support Odessa’s long-term financial success.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration; AND five years’ experience managing government financial operations; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Municipal fund accounting experience is required.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s Degree in Accounting or related field.
• Certification as a Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO), Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), or Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) is preferred.
• Candidates not holding one of these certifications at the time of hire are expected to maintain adequate progress toward achievement within two years.
• Additional specific technical training and certifications may be required.
• GASB, FASB, GFOA standards; GAAP/GAAS; and applicable federal, state, and municipal financial regulations.
• Public sector financial management, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, treasury, grants, and debt.
• Legal, ethical, and professional standards governing municipal finance.
• Principles of public administration, including procurement, contracting, personnel rules, and performance management.
• Financial systems, general ledger functions, reconciliations, and spreadsheet-based software tools.
• Interpreting and applying accounting standards, financial policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Analyzing complex financial data, evaluating alternatives, and developing sound recommendations.
• Monitoring financial activities to ensure accuracy, compliance, and internal control.
• Managing multiple priorities, evaluating workflow, and exercising independent judgment.
• Leading and supervising staff, delegating work, and fostering effective teamwork.
• Communicating clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing, and building collaborative working relationships.

Responsibilities

• Serves as Director of Finance and principal financial advisor to the City Manager and City Council.
• Oversees the City’s operating and capital budget processes, financial forecasting, and long-term financial planning.
• Directs accounting, audits, investments, debt management, payroll, billing, grants, and financial systems.
• Develops and enforces financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to promote transparency, accountability, and best practices.
• Analyzes financial trends and operational data; prepares and presents clear, accurate financial reports and recommendations in public settings.
• Leads, mentors, and develops Finance Department staff while promoting a culture of professionalism and continuous improvement.
• Coordinates financial matters with state, regional, and federal agencies and external auditors.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive