Reports To: Township Clerk and Board of Trustees
Supervises: Finance Manager, Finance Assistant
Location: On-site, Scio Township Hall, 827 N. Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI
Position Summary:
Responsible for the management and administration of the Township’s Finance Department which supports the Township, its sub-components units and joint authorities, if and as authorized by the Board. Manages all facets of fiscal management, including general accounting, payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, purchasing, financial planning reporting functions, audits, and developing and maintaining internal controls. Develops the annual operating budget and capital improvements program. Works closely with the Board to establish and maintain financial policies. Oversees the central accounting system and data processing functions of the Township.
Most of the Finance Director’s responsibilities fall under the Township Clerk’s statutory duties, and the Clerk shall supervise the Finance Director. Insofar as the Finance Director carries out statutory duties of the Board of Trustees, or other duties assigned by the Board of Trustees, the performance of those duties shall be directed by the Board of Trustees.
Essential Job Functions:
An employee in this position may be called upon to do any or all of the following essential functions. These examples do not include all of the duties which the employee may be expected to perform. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily.
- Plans, evaluates, and directs departmental policies, programs and operations related to the financial and budgetary activities of the Township government, including accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll. Champions the execution of financial policies and strategies.
- Works closely with the Clerk and Treasurer to advise and support them with finance and treasury- related tasks. Directs the financial operations of the Township using an established central accounting system within commonly accepted governmental accounting principles.
- Prepares financial statements and cost reports as requested by the Clerk or Board.
- Directs the audit and prepares year-end reports.
- Develops an annual comprehensive financial report.
- Supervises the data processing functions to ensure that required programming is in place and that necessary records and reports are produced in a timely manner.
- Serves as financial advisor to the Township Board.
- Reviews and improves finance related processes including implementing automation and auto payment best practices.
- Ensure all agreements/leases are billed and recorded.
- Leads Board through an annual long-term financial planning process.
- Supports the budget process by working closely with department heads throughout the year to understand their needs. Works closely with the Board to set up the budget timeline.
- Gathers and organizes budget data. Prepares reports and documents for the Board.
- Provides training for staff on Township finance topics.
- Tracks capital assets for the Township, including contributed capital from developers. Maintains capital asset policies and implements appropriate procedures.
- Develops and maintains the Capital Improvement Plan.
- Updates chart of accounts to comply with State of Michigan requirements.
- Maintains policies related to debt, unfunded liabilities (e.g., pension or OPEB).
- Ensures escrow balances are accurate, and agreements are in place.
- Ensures Township is compliant with all GASB and state rules.
- Plans and manages the Single Audit process.
- Develops and oversees processes and procedures for federal, state and local grants, including MEDC, MDNR, etc.
- Attendance of Board of Trustees meetings when required.
- Ensures that month-end close is completed and that reports are prepared and presented to the Board.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Minimum Qualifications:
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, abilities and minimum qualifications necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job.
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, public finance, or related field.
- CPA, CPFO, CGFM, or equivalent certification.
- Ten years of experience in government, municipal, or public finance.
- 3 to 5 years’ experience supervising, mentoring, and professionally developing staff.
- Strong public speaking and presentation skills.
- Knowledge of accounting practices and administrative policies.
- Ability to prepare complex financial reports.
- Knowledge of the principles, practices, and processes of municipal budgeting.
- Knowledge of municipal bonds and contracts and available investment opportunities.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential duties of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in an office setting with a controlled climate where they sit and work on a computer, communicate by telephone, email or in person, and move around the office to travel to other locations. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
Interested applicants: complete an application, submit a cover letter and resume to hr@sciotownshipmi.gov.