PROGRAM ASSOCIATE, CPFO PROGRAM

Description : GFOA seeks a Program Associate for its Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) certification program . This position will support GFOAs efforts to strengthen fundamental skills, enhance knowledge of best practices and standards in state and local government, and uphold the reputation and quality of the certification program. This position will report to GFOAs Senior Manager for Certification on the member experience team. Job duties will include but are not limited to : Certification Program Management Assist the Program Manager in defining and implementing GFOAs revised certification program. Oversee the day-to-day functions of the certification program by : Providing customer service. Conducting outreach and marketing efforts. Administering program operations (e.g., record-keeping using multiple platforms and Excel). Managing networking efforts with partner organizations. Handling the candidate enrollment, certification completion (in-office activities required), and renewal processes. Managing relationships with vendors. Governance and Council Support Support the CPFO Council, which governs the certification program. Event Integration and Coordination Integrate CPFO-related activities into GFOAs Annual Conference, member networking events, and other conferences hosted by affiliate organizations. Serve as a staff liaison for GFOA membership networking groups. Scholarship and Internal Contributions Assist in coordinating GFOAs scholarship opportunities. Participate actively in internal staff committees. Regular Participation in Events Attending quarterly in-person and remote CNG meetings. Attending annual I.C.E Exchange Conference. The Program Associate will enjoy a hybrid working environment , with the expectation that they will be in the office 1-2 days a week and available to travel roughly 5% to support special events and programs. GFOA offers a generous benefits package , including paid parental leave, a retirement savings program with employer contributions, health, dental, and vision insurance. We encourage professional development and provide tuition reimbursement as well as access to LinkedIn Learning for on-demand professional development opportunities. Our organization is committed to fostering a culture of learning, collaboration, and trust . GFOA values the strength diversity of all kinds brings to the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. Established in 1906, GFOA is dedicated to advancing excellence in state and local government financial management to help build thriving communities . Our 23,000 members across the United States and Canada rely upon GFOA to provide timely information, practical educational opportunities, high-quality publications, professional networking, and current best practices. The Program Associate will possess the following attributes and competencies : Professional Experience : 2-3 years of experience in a role within an association or a similar position focused on nonprofit management, certification / credentialing programs, or member coordination. Knowledge and Expertise : Strong understanding of certification programs and their value in supporting professional development. Interpersonal Skills : Proven networking and outreach skills to build and maintain relationships with GFOA staff, members, and external organizations. Project and Time Management : Exceptional project management, organizational, and time management abilities. Capacity to work independently and effectively prioritize tasks to meet deadlines. Presentation Skills : Experience delivering presentations to both small and large audiences. Technical Skills : Advanced proficiency in Excel and strong data management capabilities. Preferred Qualifications : Awareness of exam development, job task analysis, and psychometrics or the willingness to complete coursework on the topics Completion of I.C.E.s Certificate Program for the Credentialing Specialist within the first year of employment Completion of I.C.E.s Certified Credentialing Professional (ICE-CCP) within five years of employment Work Environment : Hybrid, expected to be in the Chicago office 1-2 days a week (relocation assistance is available). Travel 5-10% for Membership and Professional Development Events. Physical Requirements : Work is performed in an office environment. Must be able to travel short distances within office. Must be able to exert up to 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Starting Salary Range : $60-70k About the CPFO Program The CPFO Program is designed to prepare individuals for leadership positions in state and local governments by enhancing fundamental skills and increasing knowledge of best practices and standards in public finance. Individuals will also be equipped to participate in decision-making efforts related to their government and community and lead projects and professionals in a substantive and significant manner. Over 900 public finance professionals have earned the CPFO designation, and currently, there are over 600 active CPFOs. In 2018, GFOA began reviewing the entire program and made a strategic decision to revise and update key aspects, including shifting the day-to-day management of the program back internally to GFOA. The refreshed program was launched in 2021. Adding this new position to GFOAs team is a critical component of implementing the ongoing improvements to the CPFO program, helping market the program to members, and supporting candidates as they pursue certification. Information on the current CPFO program is available at www.gfoa.org / cpfo

Salary : $60,000 - $70,000