DescriptionThe Assistant Finance Director position is a professional, skilled, technical and management position within the Finance Department of the Village of Pleasant Prairie. The Assistant Finance Director supports the Finance Director in managing the financial operations of the Village, ensuring fiscal integrity, compliance with laws and regulations, and effective financial planning. This position plays a key role in overseeing accounting, budget development, financial reporting, fiscal planning, and internal controls for all Village departments while leading and mentoring finance employees.
This position is typically scheduled Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., with attendance at bi-monthly Village Board meetings when necessary or weekend hours during peak financial reporting periods or budget cycles; occasional travel may be required for training, conferences, or meetings.
Principal Activities:- Provides leadership, supervision, and mentorship to direct reports and ensures the efficient operation of financial functions and proper procedures are followed.
- Assists the Finance Director in oversight of financial operations of the Finance Department.
- Supports the Finance Director in the development and implementation of short- and long-term financial strategies, financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to safeguard the Village and ensures compliance with statutory regulations, municipal codes, county ordinances, Village accounting policies, GAAP, and GASB.
- Maintains accurate financial records, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Collaborates and provides strategic support and fiscal analysis for department heads to ensure effective decision-making and the financial integrity of the Village.
- Assists in the management of audits, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and addressing any findings or recommendations.
- Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with employees, officials, the public and provides financial insight and recommendations.
- Serves as a strategic partner in optimizing resources and supporting the Village's long-term financial health.
- Presents and /or represents the Finance Department in Village Board meetings and public forums as required to discuss financial matters.
- Maintains awareness of relevant financial regulations, best practices, and emerging trends in government finance to ensure the Village remains compliant and competitive.
- Maintains a high level of confidentiality, leads by example, and enforces and communicates all Village and Department rules, regulations, policies, standard operating procedures, and guidelines.
- Performs other duties and special assignments as directed within the scope of the Finance Department.
Financial Management and Reporting:- Assists the Finance Director in preparing and presenting monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports.
- Oversee the preparation of budget documents, including revenue and expenditure forecasts, and monitor budget performance.
- Reviews financial transactions for accuracy, compliance, and adherence to policies and procedures.
- Prepares and analyzes financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
Accounting and Fiscal Oversight:- Assists with the preparation and posting of journal entries, account reconciliations, and closing procedures.
- Ensures proper accounting of all governmental funds, including general funds, special revenue funds, capital projects funds, and enterprise funds.
- Assists in managing cash flow and investment activities to maximize financial resources.
- Provides oversight off debt service payments, ensures timely payments of principal and interests, tracks and reports on debt obligations, and assists with debt issuance and determines appropriate borrowing amounts.
- Evaluates accounting systems and processes and implements any necessary improvements.
Budgeting and Financial Planning:- Provides fiscal analysis and support to departments for budget preparation, including identifying funding sources and ensuring accurate financial projections.
- Monitors and analyzes departmental budgets and expenditures to ensure compliance with approved budgetary limits.
- Evaluates various departmental funding needs and identifies potential revenue sources.
RequirementsPhysical:- Requires frequent public interaction and the ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
- Frequent operation of a computer, phone, copier, and other office equipment.
- Work is primarily sedentary and performed in an indoor office environment with low to moderate noise levels.
- Requires occasional movement about the building and office spaces.
Educational, Certifications, and Experience:- Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or Business Administration or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in governmental finance, accounting, or budgeting, including supervisory experience.
- Strong understanding of governmental accounting standards (GASB, GAAP), budgeting procedures, local government operations, and financial analysis.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) certification preferred
- Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
- Ability to analyze complex financial data and present it clearly and concisely to various stakeholders.
- Excellent leadership and team-building skills, with a proven ability to manage and develop staff.
- Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects or competing deadlines effectively.
- Strong oral communication and interpersonal skills for working with a diverse population including other employees, public officials, and the public.
- An equivalent combination of experience, education, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered
