Deputy Finance Officer

Are you a strategic municipal finance professional who can lead budgeting, financial planning, capital improvement programming, audit coordination, and organizational modernization efforts? If so, apply to be the City of Safford’s next Deputy Finance Officer!

We’re looking for an exceptional, collaborative leader who is:

Experienced in governmental accounting

Skilled in financial forecasting, capital planning, and process improvement

Adept at building strong relationships across departments while driving organizational excellence

Safford is a thriving rural community in Southern Arizona’s scenic Gila Valley, approximately 100 miles northeast of Tucson, and serves as the economic, governmental, and service hub for Graham County. The City of Safford operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The City Manager serves as the chief administrative officer and oversees a diverse organization that delivers essential municipal services throughout the community.

The new Deputy Finance Officer will report to the Finance Officer. The ideal candidate will be a well-rounded municipal finance professional with strong experience in budgeting, governmental accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and capital planning.

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Finance, Accounting, or a closely related field

Five years of professional management support experience, including at least two years in public administration or municipal government, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Experience with municipal budgeting, financial planning, accounting, auditing, and governmental operations

Strong knowledge of financial management systems, budgeting processes, and governmental regulations

Ability to communicate effectively with elected officials, staff, and the public

Utility finance, rate analysis, and cost-of-service experience

Capital improvement planning and asset management experience

Experience leading financial modernization initiatives and system implementations

CPA, CPFO, or other relevant professional certification

The salary range for this position is $83,200 - $123,630, depending on experience and qualifications.

Please apply online at:

For more information on this position, contact:

Kevin Knutson, Senior Vice President, Executive Recruitment

kevink