City of Rochester, MN · 13 hours ago
Director of Finance
The City of Rochester is committed to creating an inclusive community and is seeking a Director of Finance for Rochester Public Utilities. This role involves providing executive level strategy, direction, and leadership in finance, accounting, procurement, and regulatory reporting, while ensuring compliance with financial standards and fostering a diverse workforce.
GovernmentNon ProfitTransportation
Responsibilities
Provide executive level strategic direction, guidance and coordination to the Utility as a member of the leadership team to fulfill the utility’s strategic plans and objectives
Participate in the organizational strategic planning process including development and implementation of short-term and long-term goals along with communication of the plan
Provide strategic direction and guidance in assessing organizational performance against both the budget and RPU's long-term strategic goals
Develop tools and systems to provide critical financial and operational information to the RPU leadership and make actionable recommendations on both strategy and operations
Assist in establishing objectives and meeting agendas, selecting and engaging outside consultants (including but not limited to auditors, financial advisors and bond counsel)
Oversee long-term budgetary planning, debt management, fiscal management the process for establishing rates and cost management in alignment with RPU's strategic plan
Provide executive-level direction, guidance and coordination to the functional areas of finance, accounting, procurement, materials management, HR support, training, development, process improvement and recognition programs
Develop and implement budgets, establish policies and internal processes for the successful operation of the division
Provide executive-level oversight on all accounts, ledgers, and reporting systems ensuring compliance with appropriate Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) standards, regulatory (FERC/AWWA) requirements, City Charter and Board policies
Maintain internal control and safeguards for recognition of revenue, expenses, program expenditures, inventory and assets
Oversee all audit activity, which consists of both a financial audit and regulatory Federal Energy Regulatory Commission audit
Consistently analyze financial data and presents financial reports in an accurate and timely manner; clearly communicate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements; monitor progress and changes and keep abreast of RPU's financial status
Engage the executive team and Board around fiscal issues, policies, industry changes and trends in financial operations and delivery
Provide executive-level oversight for budgeting which includes the annual budget and long-term planning processes
Provide timely and accurate monthly budget to actual reporting and analysis to support business decisions
Present and make recommendations on the annual budget and corresponding rate adjustments to the Board and City Council in compliance with State Statutes, City Charter and Board policies
Provide direction and administer the debt management function for the utility to include oversight of debt planning, debt issuance or refunding, preparation of the official statements and working with underwriters, bond counsel, bond rating agencies and financial advisors
Make recommendations to the Board to support prudent fiscal management
Exercise a leadership style that fosters teamwork, promotes team initiative, and provides professional growth opportunities for Department employees
Foster a collaborative leadership style that encourages teamwork, promotes staff initiative, and provides professional growth opportunities for all departmental employees
Develop and implement effective employee coaching and performance management strategies to ensure the achievement of organizational priorities and to create an environment that encourages innovation, teamwork, employee engagement, fiscal responsibility, and high-quality work
Create expectations and outcomes for employees to work collaboratively with other City department staff, public agencies, customers, and the community
Oversee the recruitment, hiring, and orientation processes for new employees and ensure strategies are implemented to obtain and maintain a diverse workforce
Partner with the Human Resources professionals to resolve employment/labor relations issues and participate in collective bargaining agreement negotiations when requested
Encourage and inspire employees to do their best work while demonstrating positive leadership, positive communication, and a commitment to our Foundational Principles
Qualification
Required
A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting or a closely related field from an accredited four-year college or university
10 years of progressively responsible full-time employment experience in a finance/accounting position
At least three years of supervisory/leadership experience directing professional and support staff
Applicant must be bondable
Possess a valid driver's license
Preferred
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Masters in business administration (MBA) or related degree
Experience with governmental and project accounting
Experience with business process improvement
Experience with financial and cost analyses
Familiar with utility operations
Familiar with regulatory requirements
Familiar with rate development
Familiar with current utility issues