Financial Director

About Cogent Infotech
At Cogent Infotech, we believe in creating opportunities that empower individuals and transform organizations. With over 21 years of excellence in consulting and talent solutions, we pride ourselves on building inclusive workplaces and driving innovation in everything we do. Our diverse teams bring unique perspectives to help deliver cutting-edge solutions to global clients across both public and private sectors.

Job Title: Financial Director
Location: Lake Helen, FL
Full Time role

Onsite Role

Job Summary:

The Finance Director serves as the chief financial officer of the client and is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and oversight of all municipal financial operations. This position directs accounting, budgeting, cash management, payroll, purchasing, utility billing, debt administration, capital planning, audit coordination, internal controls, and grant financial administration.

The Finance Director works closely with the City Administrator, Mayor, City Commission, department heads, external auditors, financial institutions, grant agencies, and state and federal partners to ensure financial transparency, compliance, and long-term fiscal sustainability.

Duties:

Financial Leadership & Administration

Directs and manages all City financial operations in accordance with GAAP, GASB, GAAFR, Florida Statutes, and City policies.

Oversees general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, purchasing, fixed assets, and utility billing.

Maintains and strengthens internal controls and financial procedures.

Serves as Investment Officer; manages cash flow and investment portfolio in accordance with City policy.

Administers debt service and bond compliance.

Prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.

Coordinates and manages the annual independent audit process.

Assists in preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (or Annual Financial Report as applicable).

Budget & Capital Planning

Serves as Budget Officer under direction of the City Administrator.

Develops the annual operating and capital budgets.

Prepares and updates a Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP).

Monitors departmental expenditures and revenue trends.

Provides long-term fiscal forecasting and sustainability modeling.

Advises the City Administrator and Commission on financial impacts of policy decisions.

Grant Writing & Administration

Identifies, researches, and pursues federal, state, and regional grant opportunities.

Prepares grant applications in coordination with the City Administrator and department heads.

Administers financial compliance for awarded grants.

Oversees reimbursement requests and reporting requirements.

Ensures proper accounting segregation of grant funds.

Assists in developing matching fund strategies.

Coordinates FEMA reimbursement and disaster recovery documentation when applicable.

Strategic & Operational Support

Advises City leadership on economic development financing tools.

Assists with rate studies (water, sewer, stormwater if applicable).

Monitors legislative changes affecting municipal finance.

Presents financial reports at Commission meetings.

Develops financial policies, ordinances, and resolutions as needed.

Supports emergency management operations (Finance Section role if activated).

Supervision & Administration

Supervises finance department personnel.

Conducts performance evaluations and staff development.

Establishes efficient workflows and cross-training.

Promotes a culture of accountability, service, and professionalism.

Minimum Qualification

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Administration, or closely related field required.

Master’s degree (MBA, MPA) preferred.

Experience

Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible governmental accounting experience.

Prior municipal finance leadership experience preferred.

Experience with Florida municipal budgeting strongly preferred.

Experience managing or administering state and federal grants required.

Certifications (Preferred but not required)

CPA

CGFO (Certified Government Finance Officer – FLCGFOA)

CPFO (GFOA)

Equivalent Combination

An equivalent combination of education, training, and progressively responsible experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered in lieu of specific degree or experience requirements.

Cogent Infotech is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and experiences. If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply
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