Director of Finance

About the position

The Finance Director is responsible for overseeing the City of Livonia's financial operations, reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This role ensures financial accuracy, compliance with GAAP and municipal regulations, and transparency across all financial activities. Key responsibilities include managing budgeting, financial reporting, cash management, audit preparation, grant administration, and internal controls. The Finance Director develops and implements fiscal policies and strategies to maintain the City's long-term financial health, providing strategic financial insights to optimize operations and ensure fiscal stability. This position requires a detail-oriented leader with strong expertise in financial management and a focus on continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all activities of the Finance Department, ensuring compliance with the City Charter, ordinances, policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Develop, implement, and enforce financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to improve efficiency, protect assets, and guide financial decision-making.
• Monitor and report on the City's financial condition, ensuring accurate accounting records, timely payments, and monthly/year-end financial closings.
• Manage the City's financial accounting system and records, ensuring the timely payment of liabilities and an accurate monthly and year-end financial close for all City funds.
• Oversee the City's investment portfolio to maximize returns while minimizing risks.
• Administer grant programs for the City in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Oversee the administration and maintenance of the City's general ledger, ensuring accuracy and timely financial close across all funds.
• Direct the development of the City's annual budget, monitor financial trends, and ensure budget compliance.
• Manage financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and timely submission of State-required and grant-related reports.
• Oversee federal, state, and local grant programs, including CDBG grants, ensuring compliance with all funding requirements.
• Coordinate with external auditors for the City's annual financial audit and Single Audit for federal programs, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
• Monitor municipal debt obligations, capital planning, and bond issuances to ensure fiscal health and regulation compliance.
• Lead and manage a team of 17 finance professionals, overseeing Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Purchasing, Retirement System Accounting, Water Billing, and Capital Planning.
• Provide mentorship, training, and professional development opportunities to finance staff.
• Conduct recruitment, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions as needed.
• Direct the City cash flow management and investment strategies to ensure liquidity and maximize returns while minimizing risk.
• Review and approve bank reconciliations and investment transactions, ensuring compliance with financial policies.
• Monitor and evaluate investment policies, market trends, and economic conditions affecting City finances.
• Advise and assist City departments on financial matters, budget development, and fiscal policies.
• Present clear and engaging financial information and budget updates to City staff, City Council, and the public.
• Act as a liaison between the City and external auditors, financial institutions, and regulatory agencies.
• Manage the City's financial software systems, ensuring efficient financial reporting and process improvements.

Requirements

• U.S. citizen or resident alien with the legal right to work in the United States.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification required.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field.
• Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in municipal finance, public accounting, or government financial management.
• Knowledge of fund accounting, municipal finance laws, and financial reporting standards.
• Strong ability to interpret financial data, conduct revenue projections, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Expertise in GAAP, GASB, and financial compliance regulations for municipal finance.
• Proven experience managing and mentoring finance teams to achieve excellence.
• Ability to present complex financial information to elected officials, staff, and the public.
• Skilled in managing municipal investments, debt portfolios, and cash flow operations.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify financial risks, implement solutions, and drive process improvements.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $119,621 - $139,922 based on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package.