Director of Finance

City Of Avon Lake - Avon Lake, OH

Full-time - Manager

Avon Lake, OH

About the position

The Finance Director serves as the chief fiscal officer and contract administrator for the City, playing a crucial role in overseeing the management of financial records and the contract administration program. This position is responsible for maintaining an accurate accounting of all taxes, assessments, and funds due to the Municipality and Municipal Utilities. The Finance Director ensures that all receipts and disbursements made by the Municipality are accurately recorded and that a comprehensive record of all appropriations and transfers of funds made by the Council is maintained. Additionally, the Finance Director reviews and approves payroll, bills, and other claims against the Municipality and Municipal Utilities, providing essential financial oversight and accountability. In this role, the Finance Director advises the Mayor and Council in the preparation of estimates, budgets, and appropriations, ensuring that financial planning aligns with the City’s goals and objectives. The Finance Director also serves as a liaison with the Utilities Department, facilitating the reconciliation of bank statements and ensuring that financial operations run smoothly. This position is responsible for the preparation of critical financial documents, including notes for loans or bonds, annual audits, and the annual comprehensive financial reports (ACFR) within fund balances approved by the Council. The Finance Director manages a team of staff, prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, and ensuring that employees are trained and adhere to policies and procedures. This role is also responsible for maintaining a healthy and safe working environment and making recommendations regarding hiring, termination, and disciplinary actions. The Finance Director oversees and directs the activities of the accounting function, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards. This position requires a keen eye for detail, as the Finance Director reviews and audits internal financial reports, general ledger entries, and other documents created by subordinates, identifying and resolving issues as they arise. The Finance Director prepares, submits, and maintains the annual budget, evaluates all revenue records, and prepares budget forecasts. This role also involves preparing for and completing the annual comprehensive financial reports and other financial reports in preparation for the annual audit, responding to auditor questions, and resolving any identified issues. Furthermore, the Finance Director maintains accurate records of all taxes, assessments, and funds due to the City, ensuring that all tax assessments are accurately recorded with the County auditor and that necessary paperwork is prepared in collaboration with the City's bond counsel. This position also includes maintaining a listing of City assets, including motor vehicles, real estate property, infrastructure, and contractual documents.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the management of financial records/accounts and contract administration program for the City.
• Maintain accurate accounting of all taxes, assessments, monies due, receipts, and disbursements made by the Municipality and Municipal Utilities.
• Maintain a record of all appropriations and transfers of funds made by Council.
• Review and approve payroll, bills, and other claims upon the Municipality and Municipal Utilities.
• Advise the Mayor and Council in the preparation of estimates, budgets, and appropriations.
• Serve as a liaison with the Utilities Department in the reconciliation of bank statements.
• Prepare documents such as notes for loans or bonds, annual audits, and annual comprehensive financial reports (ACFR).
• Manage staff, including prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, and ensuring staff are trained.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, and/or standards.
• Review and audit internal financial reports, worksheets, general ledger entries, and other documents created by subordinates.
• Prepare, submit, and maintain the annual budget; evaluate all revenue records and prepare budget forecasts.
• Prepare for and complete the annual comprehensive financial reports and other financial reports in preparation for the annual audit.

Requirements

• Proven experience in financial management and accounting practices.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local financial regulations and compliance standards.
• Experience in budget preparation and financial forecasting.
• Ability to manage and lead a team effectively.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with municipal finance and public sector accounting.
• Familiarity with financial software and accounting systems.
• Certification as a CPA or similar professional designation.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan (401k).
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Professional development opportunities.