FINANCE DIRECTOR/CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)

Urbana Free Library; Urbana (IL); On-site; USD 133,233 - 219,834; Full time

Job summary

The Urbana Free Library is in search of an experienced Finance Director/Chief Financial Officer (CFO). This role entails supervising financial practices, advising the Mayor and City Council on crucial financial matters, and managing the City’s budget.

Ideal candidates should have a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, with a minimum of ten years of executive experience in municipal finance. The position offers a competitive salary range from $133,233.20 to $219,834.78, and a comprehensive benefits package is also available.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of executive experience in governmental budgeting and financial planning.
• Experience in municipal accounting, general ledger control, and financial reporting.
• 5+ years in a supervisory role.

Responsibilities

• Advise city officials on financial practices and policies.
• Manage the City’s budget and financial reporting systems.
• Develop long-range financial forecasts.

Skills

Government Accounting Standards

Financial Planning

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Presentation skills

Communication skills

Fiscal stewardship

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field

Master's degree in a relevant field

Job description

Finance Director / Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

City of Urbana is seeking an experienced leader to serve as Finance Director/Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The CFO is the chief fiscal officer and will report directly to the Mayor.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise the Mayor, City Council, and staff on financial practices, policies, and funding strategies.
• Direct and manage activities related to the City’s budget, financial and accounting reporting systems, and audits.
• Develop the annual budget format, coordinate the budget process, and prepare the budget document; review all proposed budget amendments and ordinances.
• Manage the development and implementation of departmental operating procedures; approve updates and changes to departmental procedures.
• Review key financial operations and activities at regular intervals to ensure standard operating procedures are followed and performance standards are met; recommend and implement changes.
• Manage investment of City funds, maintaining, updating, and ensuring compliance with investment policy.
• Provide long‑range financial forecasts and recommend strategies for revenue increases or budget reductions based on forecasts.
• Review and approve purchases above $10,000 and budget transfers, ensuring compliance with City Code and policies.
• Develop and enforce policies related to all City financial and purchasing functions.
• Attend City Council meetings as required and prepare items for Council action.
• Develop systems to monitor the fiscal status of all City functions, prepare reports, and advise the Mayor on fiscal condition, changes, and trends.
• Manage risk‑related financial matters and coordinate with Legal and HR on worker’s compensation and liability claims.
• Oversee implementation of financial technologies, including automation of financial processes, and prepare long‑range financial plans.

Required and Desirable Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field; master’s degree desirable.
• At least 10 years of progressive executive experience in governmental budgeting and financial planning and management.
• Extensive experience in all aspects of municipal accounting, general ledger control, financial reporting, debt issuance, investments, banking, accounts payable, and revenue billing and collection.
• At least five years in a supervisory role.
• Advanced knowledge of Government Accounting Standards and superior written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and presentation skills.
• Strong commitment to responsible fiscal stewardship, staff development, and customer service.
• Thorough knowledge of municipal budgeting, government fund accounting, financial forecasting, controls, audits, procurement, and financial systems.
• Knowledge of risk management, claims management, insurance, and liability.

Compensation and Benefits

Annual salary range: $133,233.20 to $219,834.78. The starting range within this pay band will be between $133,233.20 and $176,533.99. The City of Urbana offers a competitive fringe benefits package, and relocation assistance may be negotiated.

Equal Employment Opportunity. The City of Urbana welcomes diversity.