Jefferson County PUD seeks an experienced chief financial officer to guide the organization’s financial strategy from its Port Townsend campus. This onsite executive role oversees accounting, budgeting, planning, reporting, treasury, audits and risk management, ensuring regulatory alignment with the utility’s strategic objectives. The successful candidate will lead the Finance Department and collaborate with leadership to sustain financial integrity and long-term stability.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the Accounting Department’s overall functions, directing planning, development, implementation, and documentation of operations to align with PUD policies and regulatory requirements.
- Direct the Purchasing and Inventory Departments’ operations to ensure effective procurement and stock management.
- Formulate and administer financial strategies and policies that support the PUD’s strategic plan, covering budgeting, rate and resource planning, long- and short-term forecasting, financial reporting, investment management, bond issuance, procurement, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, auditing, and risk management while complying with applicable laws.
- Ensure financial practices adhere to best-practice standards, internal controls, and ethical benchmarks for public sector management.
- Lead the annual budgeting process, including rate development and cost-of-service assessments; present proposed budget and rates to the Board of Commissioners and monitor adjustments as needed.
- Administer internal controls, audit measures, and financial policies to safeguard assets and maintain financial integrity and compliance.
- Direct preparation and participation in external financial and accountability audits, coordinate with auditors, report findings to the General Manager and Board, and facilitate required actions.
- Oversee the preparation and presentation of financial statements, governmental reports, and related analyses.
- Identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks related to budgeting, investments, compliance, and internal controls; direct strategies to protect assets and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Provide accurate financial reports to the General Manager, Board of Commissioners, and other stakeholders as needed.
- Conduct financial planning work, including long-range financial forecasting.
- Maintain accounting controls through process evaluation and a continuous improvement approach.
- Maintain positive external relationships with bankers, insurance brokers, bond-rating agencies, and regulators.
- Attend Board of Commissioners meetings and support the General Manager with meeting preparation and reporting.
- Ensure statutory oversight of contracting, bid requirements, purchasing procedures, vendor payments, and public meetings.
- Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements in performance of duties.
- Deliver topical presentations for training, information, and decision making for groups of varying sizes.
- Develop financial statistics and economic analysis reports.
- Maintain invested funds in accordance with Washington State Law and District Resolutions.
- Analyze financing needs and implement appropriate financing options.
- Assist with debt and bond issues, ensuring compliance with bond covenants and applicable laws and PUD resolutions.
- Provide payroll oversight and consult with Human Resources on payroll-related matters as needed.
- Represent the PUD at trade association meetings and related committees, projecting a positive image for the organization.
- Perform special projects aligned with the PUD’s strategic plan.
- May serve as acting General Manager in the absence of the General Manager and may assume duties to maintain PUD operations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or a closely related field.
- Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible accounting experience.
- At least five years of leadership experience managing and supervising accounting staff and leading the accounting function of an organization (preferred).
- Experience in accounting for an electric utility and familiarity with NISC financial systems (highly desired).
- Advanced degree and/or professional certification (CPA, CIA, CMA) preferred; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.
- Solid knowledge of governmental and financial accounting standards, processes, and applicable local, state, and federal laws impacting PUD finances.
- Thorough understanding of internal controls and ability to implement sound fiscal policies and procedures.
- Proven leadership ability to manage complex financial, personnel, and operational matters and coordinate multiple projects.
- Strong knowledge of GAAP, budgeting and forecasting, cash management, and public utility financial practices; familiarity with Rural Utilities Service regulations and FERC Uniform Systems of Accounts preferred.
- Ability to develop, implement, and monitor policies, internal controls, and financial models; capable of independent judgment and clear communication of financial information.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to diverse audiences and foster collaboration across departments.
- Demonstrated ability to build cross-functional teams and resolve conflicts.
- Commitment to ethical behavior, meeting deadlines, and maintaining integrity in all activities.
- Must pass a criminal background check and possess a valid driver’s license.
- Occasional overnight or out-of-town travel; willingness to work extra hours as needed to achieve PUD goals.
Technologies
NISC financial systems, financial accounting software
Supervision
This position directly supervises employees within the Department. Responsibilities include interviewing and recommending candidates for hire, training staff, planning and directing work, monitoring performance, rewarding or disciplining employees, and addressing complaints and resolving problems in accordance with organizational policies and applicable laws.
Standard Workplace Expectations
- Perform duties safely and in accordance with established safety practices.
- Contribute to a collaborative team environment by listening to and considering colleagues’ suggestions and concerns.
- Offer constructive ideas to help the team meet or exceed objectives, while supporting group decisions.
- Maintain a positive, cooperative attitude in the workplace and manage priorities to meet deadlines.
- Respond promptly to inquiries and requests; verify accuracy of work to prevent costly errors.
- Be prepared to work additional hours as necessary to achieve departmental goals.
- Adhere to PUD employee policies and procedures and maintain regular attendance.
Residency Requirement
The candidate must reside within Jefferson, Kitsap, or Clallam County and meet this requirement within six months of hire date.
Additional Requirements
- Must successfully complete a criminal background check and possess a valid driver’s license.
- Occasional overnight or out-of-town travel for training and business needs.
- Ability to work additional hours as necessary to meet the PUD’s goals.
Working Conditions and Physical Demands
The role is primarily based in a temperature-controlled office environment. Workspaces feature standard office lighting and may involve frequent noise, interruptions, and other distractions. The position requires extended periods of standing or remaining in a stationary posture while handling documents and office materials, along with visual and auditory ability to use a computer or other technology devices for reviewing, analyzing
