Comptroller

City of Alton•Alton, IL

About The Position

The Comptroller is responsible for managing and overseeing the City’s financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, forecasting, and reporting. This role ensures the accuracy and integrity of all financial records in compliance with local, state, and federal requirements. The Comptroller directs the preparation and administration of the annual budget, supervises the work of finance staff, and coordinates financial audits. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of governmental fund accounting, cash management, and the reporting of federal, state, county, and local revenue streams.

Requirements

Education Bachelor (Related Field)
Experience Four years of previous relevant work experience is required.
Knowledge of governmental fund accounting, public finance, and municipal budgeting.
Knowledge of financial reporting standards and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Knowledge of audit procedures, grant funding requirements, and tax law as it applies to municipalities.
Knowledge of financial software systems and spreadsheet applications.
Skill in financial planning, forecasting, and analyzing complex financial data.
Skill in developing budgets, preparing reports, and managing cash flow.
Skill in supervising staff, delegating tasks, and evaluating performance.
Ability to interpret financial data and make sound strategic recommendations.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and ensure the integrity of financial records.
Ability to implement internal controls and financial policies that promote accountability.
Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changes in regulations or technology.
Work requires the ability to sit, stand, walk for extended periods of time.
Work requires the ability to complete repetitive wrist, hand, and/or fine motor movement.
Work requires the ability to talk, hear, listen, and comprehend.
Work requires visual acuity of 20 feet or more, visual acuity of 20 inches or less, precise hand/eye coordination, the ability to identify and distinguish colors.
Must be able to lift up to 5

Nice To Haves

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Oversee Financial Operations: Directs all City financial activities including accounting operations, revenue and expenditure tracking, general ledger oversight, debt activity, and year-end closing.
Develop and Manage Budgets: Develops, reviews, and presents the annual operating, capital, administrative, and appropriations budgets, as well as property tax levy ordinances, in coordination with the Mayor, Council, and department heads, and monitors compliance throughout the fiscal year.
Cash, Fund, and Debt Management: Manages cash flow, fund balances, banking relationships, special funds, debt service, bond compliance, and credit rating activities to ensure fiscal stability.
Perform and Review Reconciliations: Performs and oversees banking and account reconciliations to ensure accuracy and integrity of financial records.
Supervise Accounting Activities: Oversees accounts payable, purchasing, bid processes, and other transactional functions to ensure efficiency and accuracy.
Ensure Compliance and Internal Controls: Ensures compliance with GASB standards, federal, state, and local regulations, grant requirements, and maintains strong internal control systems to safeguard City funds.
Financial Planning and Forecasting: Provides strategic financial analysis, forecasting, and advisory support to the Mayor, City Council, and department heads on fiscal policy, financing, and long-term sustainability, including attendance and presentations at City Council and Committee of the Whole meetings.
Coordinate Audits and Reporting: Coordinates annual audits and prepares required financial reports for City Council, regulatory agencies, grantors, and external stakeholders.
Train and Supervise Staff: Manages, trains, evaluates, and mentors Comptroller’s Office staff to ensure effective operations and professional development.
Grant and Special Program Management: Oversees grant financial compliance and reporting, ARPA and FEMA documentation, pension funding calculations, GEMT revenue allocation, and energy aggregation and efficiency programs.