Chief Financial Officer

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) performs highly responsible administrative, professional and executive leadership work serving as the chief financial officer accountable for the daily direction/oversight of the organization's financial affairs. Responsible for the development and implementation of the organization's financial strategy, accounting and procurement policies and strategic planning initiatives for the Finance Division. Performs other duties in alignment with the COTA Strategic Plan and in support of the organization's vision to Move Every Life Forward. Responsibilities: Assumes full management responsibility for all services and activities under the Finance operation and manages the development and implementation of Finance Department goals, objectives, policies, and priorities; Oversees annual operating and capital budgets; plans and directs the coordination of the process with various divisions and departments, ensuring a correlation between the strategic plan and budgeted items; provides monthly status reports; Develops, implements and directs COTA's financial and procurement strategies and strategic planning initiatives, ensuring alignment with COTA's mission; Protects the organization's financial assets through the development of effective financial policies and procedures in accordance with standard accounting practices and required mandates; ensures accurate accounting, effective internal controls, and prudent investments; and ensures compliance with regulatory reporting requirements; Oversees procurement process for the cost-effective execution and administration of contracts, ensuring the timely receipt of goods and services in accordance with state, local and federal regulations; evaluates COTA's procurement needs to identify opportunities for efficiencies through expanded use of term and requirements contracts; Collaborates with Leadership Team on financial implications to any process and program; partners with the Chief LinkUS Program Officer and/or Director of Real Estate & Development on potential development opportunities, revenue potential, and anticipated costs and explores various financing sources to accomplish the development objectives. Manages COTA's debt, including the issuance of new debt, refinancing of existing debt, preparation of all documents related to such transactions, presenting to the rating agencies, and collaborating with Advisors to determine a plan of finance based on project needs and market conditions; ensures compliance with all Federal and State laws including continuing disclosure reporting; Oversees the administration, monitoring, and updating of all aspects of the LinkUS financial model in partnership with the Chief LinkUS Program Officer; Designs and leads transformational initiatives to optimize the work and effectiveness of the Finance Division function, which includes integration of all internal and external organizations that interface with COTA processes; Represents COTA in various public and legislative forums requiring development and presentation of reports on the organization's current economic position, investment policies, and overall financial strategy; Advises and makes financial recommendations including, funding, short- and long-term planning; "cost outs" and analyzes the TIP, Transit Development Plan, and overall business plan; prepares 10-year forecast and monitors progress/status; Ensures the effective and efficient operation of grants accounting and administration; Clearly and articulately conveys financial performance, budgets, and other key financial information through reports and presentations to the CEO, Leadership Team, Board of Trustees, and other key stakeholders as necessary; and, Approves expenditure requests for all Division ensuring availability of funds. Other Job Functions: Directs and provides leadership for their staff. Hires, trains, develop, and appraise staff effectively. Ensures the organization meets its EEO responsibilities by assisting in identifying problem areas, participating in local minority organizations, participating in review of complaints alleging discrimination, and supporting career counseling for employees. Takes corrective action as necessary, on a timely basis, and in accordance with policy; Regular, predictable and punctual attendance required; and, Performs other duties as assigned. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required. CPA certification preferred. Minimum of 10 years' executive experience in financial administration, ideally in a public or transit-related organization. Demonstrated success in strategic planning, budget oversight, and compliance management. Experience managing procurement and contract functions within a regulatory framework. Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage cross-functional teams and projects. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Knowledge of financial and cash management including investments, short-and long-range cash forecasting and grants administration; Knowledge of the development and implementation of automated information systems, preferably in a client-server environment; Skills in human relations skills; Skills in oral and written communication; Ability to interrelate well with colleagues, various public officials and agencies and members of the Central Ohio community; and Ability to effectively utilize budgeting skills in the development of strategic goals. Preferred Attributes: Strong communication and presentation skills. Deep understanding of public sector financial operations. Ability to work collaboratively with leadership, stakeholders, and external partners. Benefits Overview: COTA offers a comprehensive benefits package including: Medical, dental, and vision insurance Life and disability coverage Paid time off and holidays Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities Employee wellness programs and transportation benefits Access to Ohio Deferred Compensation (voluntary retirement plan) Retirement: COTA participates in the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS). Employees contribute 10% of salary; COTA contributes an additional 14%. OPERS offers three plan options: Traditional, Member-Directed, and Combined. Additional voluntary retirement savings available through Ohio Deferred Compensation. Physical Requirements: This position requires exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Equal Opportunity Employer COTA is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at all levels of its workforce. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. This position is being handled directly by David Gomez Partners, Inc. To apply, please send your resume to: ...