Austin Energy Finance Director

City of Austin

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing diverse financial functions, guiding long range financial strategy, and communicating complex financial concepts to executive leadership and external oversight bodies. Candidates should be comfortable working in organizations that provide essential public services, where transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance are key drivers of financial decision making. Under minimal direction, this position is responsible for the management and operations of Austin Energy's (AE) financial services division including the following functions: accounting, financial reporting, rates (regulatory and non-regulatory services), budget/financial forecasting, CIS /billing support, payments, inventory accounting, financial management, purchasing, and contract administration.

Requirements

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in a field related to the job, plus seven (7) years of experience in a field related to the job, including at least two (2) years of experience which were in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Knowledge of Local, State, and Federal laws and City ordinances.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Knowledge of budgeting methods and systems.
• Knowledge of financial accounting, reporting, and management.
• Knowledge of financial forecasting methods.
• Knowledge of electric utility industry financial and operational trends.
• Knowledge of the concepts of equity, including experience in applying equity frameworks to established laws, ordinances, and long-standing practices.
• Skill in oral and written communications.
• Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
• Skill in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting applicable research data.
• Ability to use an equity lens and framework to create inclusive, diverse, and safe workplaces and community programs.
• Ability to manage diversity, understand inclusion, and work with diverse communities or populations to build constructive and effective relationships.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to train others.
• Ability to analyze and resolve irregular events.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation with a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university may substitute for non-managerial/executive experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.
• Active CPA License in the State of Texas, or the ability to obtain a Texas CPA license within 12 months of employment.
• Experience leading professional finance teams within a municipally-owned utility or similar entity.
• Experience communicating and presenting complex financial concepts and strategies to executive leadership, governing bodies, and other external stakeholders.
• Experience managing regulatory accounting and/or financial reporting teams, including internal control framework development.
• Experience in any of the following: cost of service modeling, long-term financial forecasts, and/or capital funding strategies.

Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, directs, and controls activities of AE's financial services division.
• Provides financial advice to AE's executive team.
• Prepares, reviews, and recommends rates and prices for AE's services.
• Conducts technical financial analysis to support recommendations on rates.
• Reviews processes and procedures regarding regulatory changes within the electric utility industry.
• Provides expert accounting testimony in utility rate proceedings.
• Analyzes employee and business needs and develops short- and long-range strategies, goals, and action plans to meet those needs.
• Develops and monitors the assigned O&M and CIP budgets.
• Recommends major purchases and expenditures.
• Investigates and provides financial information to City Council, citizens, management, and staff.
• Develops, prepares, reviews, and presents technical financial information in oral and written communication before the City Council, governmental and regulatory agencies, boards, and commissions.
• Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

What This Job Offers

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