Public Works Program Manager, Finance & Budget

This role requires a combination of skills, including financial analysis, problem-solving, project management, and communication. For individuals who enjoy developing and refining a diverse set of competencies, this job offers the chance to work with various financial tools and technologies, analyze data, and engage with different departments.

While the core focus is financial management, program managers often interact with different departments and teams to understand their financial needs. This interaction keeps the work varied and dynamic. There’s also a constant need to evaluate and adapt to changing financial conditions and priorities, keeping the role interesting. Program managers often face challenges like balancing competing priorities, addressing financial constraints, and ensuring resources are used efficiently. Those who enjoy challenges and want to make important decisions will find this role stimulating and intellectually rewarding.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Forecasting- Estimate future financial needs based on historical data, trends, and upcoming business requirements.

• Track and Review Expenditures- Continuously monitor and track spending to ensure it aligns with the approved budget.
• Variance Analysis- Compare actual spending with budgeted figures and analyze any discrepancies or variances, identifying areas for cost savings or potential issues.
• Audit Support- Work with auditors and provide necessary information during audits to ensure transparency and accuracy in financial reporting.
• Cross-Department Coordination- Work with various departments (HR, Finance, Parks, etc.) to gather relevant budget information and ensure their financial needs are accurately represented in the overall budget.
• Supervise Budgeting Team- If applicable, manage a team of financial analysts, providing guidance, training, and support.
• Mentor and Develop Staff-  Foster professional growth and development within the team, helping them gain budgeting and financial management skills.

Current/Upcoming Projects 

• Cost of Service Analysis- Understanding the cost of providing utility services, which includes infrastructure maintenance, operational costs, and other expenses.

• Rate Structure Review- Evaluating how the rates are designed and assessing their fairness and efficiency.
• Program Evaluation for Facilities- Assessing and analyzing the performance, outcomes, and effectiveness of a program that is governed by a contractual agreement.

Candidate Profile

Key Attributes:

• The ideal candidate must possess strong analytical skills, with the ability to assess complex financial data, identify trends, and make sound recommendations for improving financial performance.

• The candidate should be able to align budgeting and financial decisions with the organization's long-term goals, ensuring sustainability and growth.

• A strong ability to identify issues or discrepancies within financial processes, offer solutions, and implement necessary changes to ensure financial efficiency.

• Must be able to effectively communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders, including senior leadership and department heads. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential.

Technical Skills:

• A solid understanding of budgeting principles, financial forecasting, variance analysis, and cost control strategies.

• Experience using budgeting and financial planning tools such as Excel, SAP, Oracle, or other budgeting/financial management software.

• Proficient in advanced Excel functions (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data modeling, financial functions) for creating and analyzing reports.

• Understanding of accounting principles, financial regulations, and compliance requirements to ensure financial practices meet industry standards.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS:

(At time of application and in addition to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities listed above.)

• Government Finance Officer Association (GFOA) Certified Public Finance Officer Program certification.

• Finance experience in government or utility industry highly desirable.

• Familiarity with governmental or regulatory budgeting processes if the organization is in the public sector.