Head of Finance and Accounting

Department
Finance Reports to: Finance Director

Summary
Under the general direction of the Finance Director, the Finance Manager performs advanced professional financial, accounting, budgeting, and administrative work to support the Town’s financial operations. This position assists with the development and monitoring of the annual budget, capital improvement program, financial forecasts, audits, and financial reporting. The Finance Manager oversees accounting functions including general ledger activity, payroll, accounts payable, billing, reconciliations, tax filings, and internal controls. This role also supervises assigned finance staff, supports compliance with applicable governmental accounting standards and regulations, and provides financial analysis, guidance, and recommendations to Town leadership, departments, staff, and external stakeholders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Compile and assist in preparing the Town’s annual operating budget and capital improvement program, including revenue and expenditure projections.

Revise and edit budget documents and reports for accuracy and content.

Perform studies and analyses; provide data for budget preparation.

Assist in the preparation of multi‑year financial forecasts for all budgeted funds.

Assist with annual audits.

Analyze, coordinate, and prepare financial data and reports.

Assist with all financial control activities, including the review and analysis of monthly and quarterly numbers.

Oversee posting and reconciliation of ledgers and accounts.

Oversee payroll, accounts payable processing, and utility and other billings.

Manage and comply with local, state, and government tax filings and reporting requirements.

Continually monitor budget, revenues, expenditures and fund balance.

Research and suggest updates and improvements for accounting systems, including payroll and invoicing.

Confer with members of other departments regarding financial matters.

Present reports, reviews and other financial information.

Supervision: Interview, hire, plan, assign, and direct work of direct reports Accounting Tech I and II; provide supervision and training to direct reports; develop, implement, and monitor short‑ and long‑term financial plans, revenue projections, and capital projects; confirm accuracy in general accounting, payroll, and related systems; oversee reconciliation of Town bank accounts to the general ledger monthly; prepare, analyze, and reconcile complex financial transactions; reconcile assigned accounts; verify accounts payable, receivable, and utility billing; prepare monthly and annual financial reports; audit payroll deductions, earning registers, and all related reports for accuracy; verify employee salary and leave information; assist with implementation and compliance of Town’s financial policies & procedures, and internal controls; maintain technical job knowledge; research and respond to inquiries from the public and staff; and take on other tasks and special projects as assigned.

Safety: Work safely to prevent accidents and report unsafe working conditions.

Minimum Qualifications (Education/Experience/Licenses/Certifications)

“Bachelor’s degree in economics, accounting, or a related field required; five (5) years of relevant experience in accounting or public finance and two (2) years of supervisory experience, or any equivalent training, education, or experience required.”

Certified Public Accountant or Certified Public Finance Officer preferred, or ability to obtain within two (2) years.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

Knowledge of principles and practices of governmental accounting, public finance administration and budgeting, auditing, reconciliation, federal and state regulations and guidelines as they pertain to municipal finance, municipal taxation, revenue management, internal control procedures and management information system, and computerized financial applications.

Skill in effective oral and written communication; performing difficult, professional, and technical accounting and financial work; preparing and analyzing complex financial reports; reconciling accounts, records, reports, and journals; computer applications including word processing, spreadsheets, and database applications; organizing and administering a comprehensive financial management and reporting program; strong analytical and forecasting skills; supervising staff.

Environmental Factors
Work is performed primarily in a standard office environment and in and around the Town’s buildings and facilities.

Physical Factors
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is often required to sit for extended periods of time; may occasionally be required to lift and/or move items weighing up to 20 pounds.

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