Chief Financial Officer

Saginaw Transit Authority Regional Services

Saginaw (MI)

On-site

USD 120,000 - 210,000

Full time

31 hours ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Employer retirement plan

RHSP

Job summary

Saginaw Transit Authority and Regional Services is seeking a strategic Chief Financial Officer to guide financial planning, budgeting, and stewardship of public resources. You will lead a high-performing Finance Department, ensure GAAP and GASB compliance, manage grants and audits, and report financials to executives and the Board.

This role requires public-sector experience, a CPA/CGFM/CMA or equivalent, and a proven ability to build strong relationships with the community while delivering

Qualifications

Progressive experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, or financial management.
Ability to lead teams, develop employees, manage change, and foster a collaborative culture.
Analytical and strategic, with data-driven decision-making.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic financial leadership and serve as the Authority's chief advisor on financial planning, forecasting, budgeting, investments, funding strategies, and fiscal sustainability.
Monitor financial performance and recommend initiatives to improve efficiency and health.
Direct accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, treasury, payables/receivables, procurement, and grants administration.
Develop and maintain internal controls and financial systems for accurate reporting and compliance.
Ensure GAAP, GASB, FTA, MDOT, and all applicable laws are met.
Coordinate annual audits and liaise with auditors, regulators, and funding partners.
Lead operating and capital budget development and monitor revenues/expenditures.
Present financial reports and recommendations to leadership and the Board.
Oversee grant administration at all levels.
Develop and coach Finance Department staff and foster collaboration.
Collaborate with departments, agencies, auditors, and stakeholders.

Skills

Strategic financial leadership

Team leadership

Financial analysis

Regulatory compliance

Stakeholder relationship building

Excel proficiency

Financial modeling

Communication/presentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

MBA or related Master's degree

CPA/CGFM/CMA or equivalent certification preferred

Tools

ERP systems

Financial reporting software

Job description

Are you a strategic financial leader looking for a role where you can guide organizational success while making a meaningful impact in the community? If so, read on!

About Saginaw Transit Authority and Regional Services

Saginaw Transit Authority and Regional Services (STARS) is a vital public transportation provider serving the Urbanized Saginaw Area and plays an essential role in connecting the community. Operating approximately 1.5 million miles annually and serving more than 3,300 riders each day, the organization helps residents access employment opportunities, education, healthcare, shopping, and other essential destinations.

As a key partner in regional economic development, the organization is committed to providing reliable, accessible transportation solutions that enhance mobility and quality of life throughout the community. In addition to its fixed-route services, it offers specialized transportation through its LIFT program, which supports seniors and individuals with disabilities, providing more than 48,000 rides each year to those who rely on safe and dependable transportation. Their mission-driven approach makes a meaningful impact on the lives of thousands of residents across the region.

About the Opportunity

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and provides strategic direction, oversight, and accountability for all financial operations. The Chief Financial Officer supports and advances STARS' Mission, Vision, and Values through ethical leadership, responsible stewardship of public resources, sound financial decision-making, and a commitment to organizational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic financial leadership and serve as the Authority's chief advisor on financial planning, forecasting, budgeting, investments, funding strategies, and fiscal sustainability.
Monitor organizational financial performance and recommend initiatives that improve operational efficiency and financial health.
Direct and oversee all accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, treasury management, accounts payable, accounts receivable, procurement, and grants administration functions.
Develop, implement, and maintain effective internal controls, accounting systems, and financial management practices that ensure accurate reporting and regulatory compliance.
Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards, FTA regulations, MDOT requirements, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Coordinate annual financial audits and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, regulatory agencies, and funding partners.
Lead the annual operating and capital budget development process and provide ongoing monitoring of revenues, expenditures, and budget performance.
Prepare and present financial reports, analyses, forecasts, and recommendations for executive leadership, Board committees, and the Board of Directors.
Direct all aspects of federal, state, and local grant financial administration.
Lead, coach, develop, and evaluate Finance Department employees while fostering a high-performing and collaborative work environment.
Collaborate effectively with internal departments, governmental agencies, auditors, funding organizations, vendors, and community stakeholders.

About You

Demonstrated progressive experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, or financial management.
Proven ability to lead high-performing teams, develop employees, manage change, and foster a collaborative, accountable culture.
Skilled in analyzing, interpreting, and presenting complex financial data to develop strategic recommendations that support organizational goals and decision-making.
Able to build strong relationships with board members, stakeholders, and the community.
Proficient in enterprise financial management systems, accounting software, financial modeling tools, reporting platforms, and data analytics solutions.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
Experience managing complex budgets, grants, audits, and regulatory compliance activities.
Strong understanding of FTA and MDOT regulations, grant administration, regulatory compliance, public procurement requirements, and federal and state funding programs.
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field is required.
Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration, or a related field is preferred.
Experience in public sector, governmental, transit, transportation, or other highly regulated environments preferred.
Professional certification such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or equivalent designation is strongly preferred.

In addition to competitive wages, STARS provides a variety of valuable benefits and retirement programs designed to support employees and their families.

Health & Welfare Benefits