Head of Finance (Full-Time)

Job Type: Full-Time
Shape the Financial Future of an Award-Winning City
What if your next career move allowed you to influence the future of an entire community?
The City of Carlsbad is looking for a visionary Finance Director who combines strategic leadership with technical expertise and a passion for public service. You'll join an organization known for innovation, collaboration, and fiscal excellence while leading a nationally recognized finance department that has earned the GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Award and Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 28 consecutive years.
As Finance Director, you'll serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership, City Council, and departments across the organization, overseeing budgeting, financial planning, accounting, investments, debt management, technology modernization, and long-range fiscal strategy.
Flexible work schedules, including optional 9/80 schedules
Hybrid/telework opportunities
Extensive professional development and leadership growth opportunities
A culture built on innovation, inclusion, coaching, and continuous improvement
The opportunity to lead meaningful projects that directly improve the lives of more than 115,000 residents

Builds strong partnerships across departments and with the community
Communicates complex financial information in a clear, engaging manner
Lead all aspects of the City's financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, treasury, payroll, financial reporting, and long-range forecasting.
Guide the City's annual budget and multi-year financial planning efforts.
Oversee audits, investments, debt administration, and major financial initiatives.
Partner with executive leadership to develop innovative financial strategies.
Lead technology improvements and modernize financial systems and processes.
Mentor and develop an exceptional finance team while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.

If you're an innovative finance leader who enjoys solving complex challenges, developing people, and making a lasting impact on your community, we'd love to hear from you. All applications must be submitted through the City's career site. The City's HR Department will coordinate all application review and hiring activities.

For more information and to apply, use the link below to be taken to the City of Carlsbad's Government Jobs site.
Join Carlsbad and help shape the financial future of one of California's premier coastal cities.