CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)

Chief Financial OfficerThe Chief Financial Officer (CFO) serves as the District's senior financial executive and reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This role ensures the District's financial integrity, short-term and long-term fiscal health, and compliance with all public-sector financial requirements. The CFO works closely with the CEO on long-term financial strategies and advises the CEO and Board of Directors on financial risk and performance, and leads a comprehensive Finance Department supporting districtwide operations. This position serves as a representative and spokesperson on issues applicable to areas of responsibility; ensures all assigned operations and functions serve the needs of internal customers and external RTD stakeholders, while complying with applicable laws and regulations; and performs related duties as assigned.The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodations.Executive Leadership & Strategic PlanningInterprets directives from the CEO and Board of Directors; applies RTD rules, policies, and applicable laws and regulations to ensure compliance within assigned areas of responsibility.Leads the Finance Department, setting goals, operational plans, and performance expectations aligned with the District's mission, vision, and strategic priorities.Participates in districtwide strategic planning and policy development.Prioritizes customer service delivery and fosters an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performance culture within the Finance Department.Develops, monitors, and reports on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of financial strategies, ensuring alignment with the District's goals and continuous improvement of financial operations.Financial Management & ReportingOversees all financial operations, including accounts payable/receivable, general ledger, payroll, fixed assets, grants, budgeting, and financial analysis.Ensures compliance with GAAP, GASB, IRS regulations, FLSA, state and federal rules, and all applicable public-sector accounting standards.Ensures accurate, timely financial statements and regulatory reports for internal stakeholders, the Board, and external agencies.Directs month-end and year-end processes, financial controls, audit schedules, and recordkeeping requirements.Organizational Leadership & Staff DevelopmentPlans, organizes, and manages or directs assigned activities and operations, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, general ledger, payroll, fixed asset, and financial analysis.Directs, mentors, and evaluates Finance Department staff, sets performance standards, and supports professional development.Recruits and retains highly capable finance personnel, promoting a culture of integrity, service, and continuous improvement.Prepares and presents clear, comprehensive financial reports and recommendations.Budgeting & ForecastingIn consultation with the CEO, leads the development of the annual operating and capital budgets; monitors financial performance and recommends corrective actions as needed.Oversees financial modeling, forecasting, risk assessments, and long-range financial planning.Audit, Compliance & Internal ControlsServes as the primary liaison to independent auditors; oversees the annual audit and implementation of audit recommendations.Develops, manages, and continually strengthens internal control systems and financial policies.Ensures policies, procedures, and financial systems support transparency, accountability, and audit readiness.Cross Department Collaboration & Advisory SupportProvides expert guidance on financial issues to executive leadership, operational departments, employee groups, and external partners.Leads or participates in special financial studies, scenarios, and complex analyses tied to operational initiatives or policy decisions.Customer Service & Stakeholder EngagementEngage proactively with community stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and the public to develop relationships, promote transparency and trust in the District's financial stewardship.Represents the District's financial interests with professionalism, accuracy, and tact.Knowledge of:Public-sector accounting principles, including GAAP and GASB standards.Cost accounting, fixed-asset accounting, internal controls, and audit practices.Federal, state, and local laws governing public-agency finance.Budget development, financial forecasting, and cash management.Public administration principles, procurement practices, and records management.Automated financial systems and business data processing.Effective leadership, communication, and personnel management practices.Ability to:Lead and integrate complex financial operations in a public-sector environment.Consider digital transformation, data analytics, or sustainability, which are increasingly relevant in public finance leadership roles.Develop financial policies, procedures, and effective internal controls.Exercise strong, independent judgment within policy frameworks.Navigate sensitive personnel and organizational issues with professionalism and discretion.Identify and develop future finance leaders.Build productive working relationships with executive leaders, Board members, staff, regulators, community partners, and the public.Communicate effectively orally and in writing.Education, Training and Experience:A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is:Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in accounting, finance, business administration, or a closely related field: additional degrees may be considered with specific work-related experience that demonstrates the skills and experience necessary to perform this role and seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience, at least three of which were in a supervisory or program management capacity; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.Proof of required education beyond high school, such as college transcripts, diplomas, and/orcertificates may be required at the time of employment.Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements:A valid California Class C driver's license.Preferred Qualifications:Certified Public Accountant, MBA or Certified Management Accountant is desired.Experience in a public transit agency or governmental setting.The District offers a competitive employee benefit program that includes: INSURANCE: RTD provides a comprehensive health and dental insurance package for all full-time employees and their dependents. RTD also provides $20,000 life insurance for all full-time employees. SICK LEAVE: Twelve (12) days per year for all full-time employees. VACATION: Two (2) weeks to six (6) weeks depending on length of service for full-time employees. RETIREMENT: RTD participates in a 401(a) retirement plan in which RTD provides a generous match.