Commissioner of Finance

City of Syracuse•Syracuse, NY

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Commissioner of Finance serves as the City's chief fiscal officer and is responsible for the overall financial management, stewardship, and integrity of the City of Syracuse. Reporting to the Mayor and working closely with the Common Council, the Commissioner oversees revenue collection, treasury operations, accounting, debt management, payroll, financial reporting, licensing administration, and internal financial controls. The Commissioner ensures compliance with City Charter provisions, state and federal laws, and accepted governmental accounting standards while providing strategic financial leadership to support policy decisions, capital planning, and long-term fiscal sustainability.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of municipal finance, governmental accounting standards (GASB), and public budgeting
Experience managing complex revenue systems and capital financing structures
Ability to translate financial data into strategic recommendations
High level of integrity, judgment, and political acumen
Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal
Ability to work collaboratively with elected officials, department heads, auditors, and the public
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Administration, or related field
Minimum of 8-10 years of progressively responsible financial management experience, preferably in municipal or public sector finance
Demonstrated experience in governmental accounting, budgeting, debt issuance, and treasury operations

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred
CPA, CGFM, or equivalent professional credential

Responsibilities

Serve as the City's chief fiscal officer and principal advisor to the Mayor and Common Council on financial matters
Develop and implement financial policies that promote accountability, transparency, and long-term stability
Provide strategic analysis to inform major policy, capital, and economic development decisions
Ensure fiscal operations align with the City Charter and applicable law
Oversee the collection of all City taxes, fees, assessments, and other revenues
Administer real property tax billing and enforcement, including tax foreclosure and property sales
Manage the City treasury and ensure proper deposit, safeguarding, and collateralization of funds
Designate depository banks with required approvals
Issue annual revenue demand notices and oversee collection strategies
Assist in administration of the annual operating and capital budgets
Maintain commitment and expenditure controls to ensure appropriations compliance
Approve purchase orders and contracts as to availability of funds
Oversee payroll processing and pension disbursements
Supervise cost accounting systems and financial reporting functions
Prescribe and maintain the City's accounting systems
Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB standards, and other regulatory requirements
Prepare and issue the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) within statutory timelines
Oversee year-end closing, fund balancing, and required transfers
Establish accrual-based accounting for municipal enterprises as required
Coordinate issuance and sale of bonds, notes, tax anticipation warrants, and other debt instruments as authorized
Manage debt service schedules and maintain strong relationships with financial advisors, bond counsel, and rating agencies
Support long-term capital planning and financing strategies
Review and approve payment of valid claims against the City
Participate in settlement of disputed claims in coordination with Corporation Counsel and executive leadership
Maintain strong internal controls to reduce fiscal risk exposure
Lead and manage Department of Finance personnel
Promote a culture of accountability, service excellence, and continuous improvement
Develop staff capacity in governmental accounting, treasury operations, and regulatory compliance