Director of Finance and Administration

This is a unique opportunity to provide financial guidance and leadership for two special districts: Highlands Ranch Metro District and Centennial Water and Sanitation District serving the same community. The Metro District is primarily funded by property tax with a 2024 revised operating budget of $22.0 million and capital budget of $13.7 million. Centennial Water is funded by rates and fees with a 2024 revised operating budget of $51.6 million and capital budget of $34.5 million.

GENERAL PURPOSE

Manages a variety of complex supervisory, professional, administrative and technical finance and accounting functions. Manages and maintains the fiscal policies, systems and records for five Highlands Ranch Metropolitan Districts and Centennial Water and Sanitation District. Serves as chief financial officer and advisor to the general managers and the boards of directors of the above-mentioned districts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

General:

Manages assigned operations to achieve goals within the available resources; plans and organizes workflow and coordinates staff assignments; trains and evaluates assigned staff; reviews progress and directs changes as needed.

Provides leadership and direction in the development of short- and long-range plans; gathers, interprets, and prepares data for studies, reports and recommends; coordinates department activities with other departments and agencies as needed.

Prepares data for a variety of studies, reports and related information for decision-making purposes.

Communicates official plans, policies and procedures to staff and the public. Creates presentations and performs speaking engagements for the boards of directors, staff, and public including but not limited to official study sessions and board meetings four times a month minimum.

Business Operations:

Establishes and maintains internal control procedures and assures compliance with generally accepted accounting standards and procedures.

Keeps financial records and ensures the preparation of required financial reports.

Supervise the central computerized financial and management information system of the districts.

Works with the Human Resources Department on annual updates to the compensation plan and supports the process for implementation of annual increases.

May assist the Human Resources Department with analysis and decision making on benefit packages for employees.

Revenue and Asset Management:

Recommends and oversees the rules and regulations concerning the collection of taxes, fees, and other receipts in accordance with applicable laws and policies.

Recommends and maintains the proper levels of property and liability insurance.

Directs the maintenance of the appropriate fixed asset records and the required inventory of those assets.

Supervises utility and other billings.

Monitors the investment of district funds.

Business Operations:

Develops financial studies and plans. Forecasts, estimates, and monitors the financial condition of the districts to ensure the fiscal well-being of the districts.

Manages the performance of and/or development of

• Cost control activities through the effective and efficient use of budgeted funds, personnel, materials, facilities, and time.
• Monitoring revenues and expenditures in assigned areas to ensure sound fiscal control
• Preparation of annual budget document

Performs cost-of-service studies for utility rate and charges consideration.

Recommend financing programs for the districts capital improvement programs and manage the implementation of those programs including the issuance of general obligation and revenue debt.

Peripheral Duties:

Develop finance related resolutions and reviews board communications prepared by other departments.

Represents the districts at various conferences, committees, community events, workshops, seminars, trainings and meetings.

Perform general management duties for the general managers as assigned.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in finance or accounting from an accredited university
• 10 (ten) years progressive experience in public financial management
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Budgetary, accounting, and reporting theory, principles, practice, and systems including the requirements imposed by GAAFR, GAAP, and pronouncements from the Governmental Accounting Standard Board (GASB) that would influence budgeting and accounting reporting.
• Public finance and fiscal planning and financial analysis techniques (e.g. present value calculations).
• Internal control procedures and management information systems.
• Office automation and computerized financial applications.
• Colorado statutes concerning the timing of various aspects of budget preparation and the inclusion of property.
• Highly proficient in use of Microsoft Office suite, particularly in Excel and PowerPoint; skilled in collection of data and translating metrics into summary reports with visual support for interpretation and skilled at problem solving and attention to detail.
• Effectively communicate complex technical information to officials, boards of directors, general managers, contractors, developers, property owners, employees, consultants, and the public.
• Superior verbal, written, and presentation skills, enabling clear and effective communication with diverse audiences, the ability to convey complex information succinctly, and a talent for engaging stakeholders through compelling storytelling and persuasive delivery.
• Demonstrated leadership, conflict management, team building, strategic planning, performance management, and effective communication skills.
• Strong customer service skills with a proactive approach to problem-solving, demonstrating the ability to anticipate client needs, effectively address concerns, and enhance overall customer satisfaction.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, supervisors, other departments, officials and the public and work with people from diverse backgrounds and points of view as part of a team.
• Working knowledge of the principles and practices of administrative support; working knowledge of records management techniques; strong organizational and planning skills.
• Demonstrated leadership ability and follow through on tasks and adapt to changing priorities, process conditions, and circumstances.
• Represent the districts in a professional manner, exemplifying integrity and excellence while establishing the standard for employee conduct in the workplace. Foster a positive organizational culture by promoting collaboration, accountability, and respect among colleagues, and serve as a role model for ethical behavior and professionalism in all interactions.
• Proficient in operating the listed tools and equipment, demonstrating a strong understanding of their functionality and maintenance requirements. Capable of applying best practices to ensure safety and efficiency, while also troubleshooting and resolving any operational issues that may arise.
• Ability to work outside of normal business hours and attend evening and early morning meetings at various locations throughout the metro area. This flexibility ensures timely participation in critical discussions and events, facilitating collaboration with stakeholders and adapting to the dynamic needs of the organization while maintaining a strong commitment to project goals and objectives.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the General Managers of both Districts.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Exercises direct supervision over the following:

• Manager, Assets and Revenue
• Accounting Supervisor
• Financial and Budgeting Analysis Manager
• Information Technology Team - third party provider

Provides indirect general supervision of the support staff of the following divisions of the Financial Services Department:

• Business Operations
• Revenue and Asset Management
• Financial Planning
• Accounting
• Information Technology

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Personal computers, Microsoft Windows 10 Pro, Adobe, Microsoft products (Excel, Forms, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams, Word, etc.), central financial computer system, web and database software and multi-line VoIP phone. General office equipment such as multi-function printer scanner copier, web-fax, 10-key calculator, and check signing machines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

The employee must often work outside of normal business hours and attend evening and early morning meetings at various locations throughout the districts. Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of the job.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal applications, rating of education and experience; panel interview(s) and reference check; job related tests might be required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Pre-employment screening includes background check, motor vehicle record, and illegal substances screening.

ABOUT US

The Districts are a great place to work! We prioritize your well-being and recognize the importance of a work/life balance by offering outstanding benefits:

Health & Retirement!

• 100% paid employee-only medical insurance premiums
• 100% paid employee-only dental & vision insurance premiums
• 100% paid life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance premiums
• 100% contribution match for the pension plan
• Up to 6% contribution match for the optional retirement plan
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options for additional medical expenses

Work/life Balance!

• 80 hours of paid sick leave (renewed each year on work anniversary)
• 9 paid holidays and 2 half holidays in 2024
• 200 hours of medical leave
• Generous vacation leave accrual

Wellness & Improvement!

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support, guidance, and resources for employees and their families
• Up to $2,000 a year for education reimbursement
• Highlands Ranch Community Association recreation center pass for a discounted fee

Saving, Planning & Other!

• Optional 457 deferred compensation plan to help employees plan for their retirement.
• Generous stipend for personal cell phone and vehicle use
• Discounts for employees on over 1,000 products and services

To be considered, submit your resume, cover letter and at least three work-related references by Nov. 12, 2024.

Submit applications at https://www.highlandsranch.org/apply or if viewing this posting from our career center, click "Apply" below.