Director of Finance (City of Livonia)

Director of Finance

City of Livonia

About the City

The City of Livonia is a well-planned, vibrant community in southeast Michigan, covering 36 square miles and home to nearly 95,000 residents. As the ninth-largest city in the state, Livonia offers a unique blend of small-town warmth and metropolitan access, with convenient proximity to I-96 and I-275. Close-knit neighborhoods and strong community spirit have long been hallmarks of Livonia. The City's motto proclaims, "Families First," and Livonia has successfully maintained its friendly, hometown atmosphere while keeping a strong emphasis on public safety, parks, and public services. The City continues to invest in sustainability, innovation, and high-quality services that enrich the lives of all residents. Livonia is a place where community matters and the future is built with purpose.

Bring Your Talent to Livonia - We're Hiring a Dynamic Director of Finance!

Are you a CPA looking to make a real impact while working with a collaborative, mission-driven team? The City of Livonia is seeking a CPA to serve as Director of Finance-a key leadership role focused on financial accuracy, transparency, and compliance with GAAP and municipal regulations. In this role, you'll lead a skilled, dedicated team responsible for budgeting, financial reporting, cash management, audit preparation, grant administration, and internal controls-ensuring strong financial stewardship while supporting strategic initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the community.

You'll work closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), focusing on day-to-day financial operations and internal leadership. The CFO serves as the primary liaison to the Mayor, City Council, and department heads-allowing you to concentrate on driving operational excellence in a collaborative, professional structure. If you're a purpose-driven CPA ready to grow with a supportive, forward-thinking team, we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity with the City of Livonia-and help shape the financial future of a community that truly values your expertise and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Oversight

• Direct and manage all activities of the Finance Department, ensuring compliance with the City Charter, ordinances, policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Develop, implement, and enforce financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to improve efficiency, protect assets, and guide financial decision-making.
• Monitor and report on the City's financial condition, ensuring accurate accounting records, timely payments, and monthly/year-end financial closings.
• Manages the City's financial accounting system and records, ensuring the timely payment of liabilities and an accurate monthly and year-end financial close for all City funds.
• Oversee the City's investment portfolio to maximize returns while minimizing risks.
• Administer grant programs for the City in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Audit & Compliance Management

• Oversee the administration and maintenance of the City's general ledger, ensuring accuracy and timely financial close across all funds.
• Direct the development of the City's annual budget, monitor financial trends, and ensure budget compliance.
• Manage financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and timely submission of State-required and grant-related reports.
• Oversee federal, state, and local grant programs, including CDBG grants, ensuring compliance with all funding requirements.
• Coordinate with external auditors for the City's annual financial audit and Single Audit for federal programs, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
• Monitor municipal debt obligations, capital planning, and bond issuances to ensure fiscal health and regulation compliance.

Department Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and manage a team of 17 finance professionals, overseeing Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Purchasing, Retirement System Accounting, Water Billing and Capital Planning.
• Provide mentorship, training, and professional development opportunities to finance staff.
• Conduct recruitment, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions as needed.

Cash & Investment Management

• Direct the City cash flow management and investment strategies to ensure liquidity and maximize returns while minimizing risk.
• Review and approve bank reconciliations and investment transactions, ensuring compliance with financial policies.
• Monitor and evaluate investment policies, market trends, and economic conditions affecting City finances.

Collaboration & Strategic Planning

• Advise and assist City departments on financial matters, budget development, and fiscal policies.
• Present clear and engaging financial information and budget updates to City staff, City Council, and the public.
• Act as a liaison between the City and external auditors, financial institutions, and regulatory agencies.
• Manage the City's financial software systems, ensuring efficient financial reporting and process improvements.

Key Skills & Competencies:

• Governmental Accounting & Budgeting - Knowledge of fund accounting, municipal finance laws, and financial reporting standards.
• Financial Analysis & Forecasting - Strong ability to interpret financial data, conduct revenue projections, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Regulatory Compliance - Expertise in GAAP, GASB, and financial compliance regulations for municipal finance.
• Leadership & Team Development - Proven experience managing and mentoring finance teams to achieve excellence.
• Public & Stakeholder Communication - Ability to present complex financial information to elected officials, staff, and the public.
• Cash & Investment Management - Skilled in managing municipal investments, debt portfolios, and cash flow operations.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making - Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify financial risks, implement solutions, and drive process improvements.

Qualifications:

U.S. citizen or resident alien with the legal right to work in the United States.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification required.

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field.

Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in municipal finance, public accounting, or government financial management.

The Rewards

• Competitive, comprehensive benefits package including full health benefits, 401K match, a flexible PTO policy, retirement health savings plan, life insurance and flexible hours
• Offers a competitive salary range of $119,621-$139,922, based on qualifications and experience.

Join Us!

This is an exciting leadership opportunity to manage and enhance financial operations for a dynamic, growing city. As the Director of Finance, you will be critical in ensuring fiscal responsibility, strategic planning, and operational efficiency while supporting public services and economic growth.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply and help shape the financial future of the City of Livonia!