Finance Director

Overview

The Town of Mount Olive is seeking an experienced and strategic Finance Director to lead and manage all financial operations for the Town. This position performs complex managerial and leadership work in planning, organizing, and executing the Town’s financial activities. The Finance Director oversees budgeting, accounting, purchasing, payroll, investments, and compliance with federal and state procurement laws, as well as requirements from funding partners.

This role is responsible for ensuring fiscal integrity, transparency, and accountability while providing expert guidance to Town leadership and departments. The Finance Director also manages risk, leads the annual audit process, and prepares analytical financial reports to support decision-making and long-range planning.

Financial Leadership & Management

• Direct and oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, purchasing, and investments.
• Ensure compliance with North Carolina General Statutes governing local government finance and procurement.
• Develop and implement financial policies, internal controls, and best practices to safeguard Town assets.

Budgeting & Fiscal Planning

• Lead the annual budget development process, monitor and report on budget performance.
• Provide long-range financial planning and forecasting to support strategic goals.

Accounting & Reporting

• Prepare and analyze financial statements, reports, and presentations for Town leadership and elected officials.
• Coordinate and manage the annual audit process; ensure timely and accurate reporting.

Procurement & Compliance

• Oversee purchasing activities and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local procurement laws.
• Manage grant accounting and reporting requirements for federal and state funding sources.

Risk Management & Internal Controls

• Identify and mitigate financial risks; maintain insurance and liability coverage.
• Ensure adherence to internal control procedures and regulatory requirements.

Team Leadership

• Supervise and develop finance staff; foster a culture of accountability, customer service, and continuous improvement.
• Provide training and professional development opportunities to enhance team performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Consideration may be given to candidates with equivalent experience in lieu of degree.
• Fidelity Bond of $1M.

• Thorough knowledge of: NC General Statutes governing local government finance; principles and practices of public finance administration; governmental accounting, purchasing, payroll systems, and grant compliance.
• Ability to: Conduct long-range fiscal planning and prepare analytical financial statements; manage complex financial operations and lead a high-performing team; communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders and elected officials.

• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in governmental finance or public sector accounting.
• Experience with ERP systems and municipal financial software.
• CPA or CGFO certification preferred but not required.