Strategic CFO for Public Transit Finance

OhioX; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 142,000 - 217,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance

Paid Parental Leave

Tuition Reimbursement

Public Pension through OPERS

Job summary

COTA seeks a seasoned Chief Financial Officer to guide the organization’s financial direction and strategy. You will lead the Finance Division, shaping budgeting, procurement, and policy development to support long‑term sustainability and mission delivery.

You will oversee debt management, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance, while collaborating with leadership on strategic projects and performance metrics to drive value for Columbus and the community.

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field and at least ten years of executive management experience in financial administration.
• CPA certification is preferred.
• Strong leadership, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversees Finance Department goals, policies, and priorities.
• Manages annual operating and capital budgets and reports status monthly.
• Directs financial and procurement strategies aligned with the organization’s mission.
• Ensures internal controls, regulatory compliance, and prudent investments.
• Leads debt management, including new issuances, refinancings, and financing plans.
• Represents the organization in public forums and presents financial reports to leadership and boards.

Skills

Financial leadership

Budgeting & forecasting

Financial reporting

Regulatory compliance

Debt management

Procurement oversight

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting or related field

CPA certification preferred

10+ years executive finance experience

Job description

COTA seeks a seasoned Chief Financial Officer to guide the organization’s financial direction and strategy. You will lead the Finance Division, shaping budgeting, procurement, and policy development to support long‑term sustainability and mission delivery.

You will oversee debt management, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance, while collaborating with leadership on strategic projects and performance metrics to drive value for Columbus and the community.