The traditional western Town of Payson (pop. 16,351, elev. 5,003 ft., 19.36 sq. mi.) is one of the most desirable communities in Arizona. For decades, residents of Phoenix and the Valley of the Sun have been making the 90-minute drive up the Beeline Highway (SR 87) through the Mazatzal Mountains to Payson. Visitors escape the Valley’s scorching summer heat, traffic, and congestion, and seek the calm and tranquility of life at altitude. The town’s FY 2022-2023 budget of $66.2 million (July 1 – June 30) supports 195 FTE, including PTE and seasonal.

Reporting directly to the town manager, the finance director oversees the finance department of 7.5 FTE, including a finance manager proposed for the 2023-24 budget. The current departmental budget is approximately $587,000. Payson’s next finance director is a person of character with the highest ethical standards. The successful candidate is simultaneously humble enough to embrace the role of a working manager and strong and confident enough to be a visionary leader, serving as the town’s treasurer and chief fiscal officer.

A bachelor’s degree in business or public administration, accounting, finance, or a related field, and six years of progressively responsible experience in governmental accounting or finance, including budget development and three years of management and supervisory experience, are required. An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered at the town’s sole option. Credentialing through GFOA (CPFO) or AGA (CGFM), and CPA, are all preferred.

The annual salary range for this position is $100,000 to $140,000. Appointment will be made depending upon the qualifications of the selected candidate and fit with the community and organization. In addition, the town provides the following benefits: health, dental, vision, and life insurances – the town may pay up to 76% of premiums depending on the selected coverage, and Section 125 cafeteria plan makes the employee portion a pre-tax deduction – and multiple supplemental insurances, a prescription drug benefit, and a health savings account are available. Retirement benefits are through the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) – the current mandatory deduction is 12.17%, with disability, which is matched 100% by the town, and a voluntary 457(b) deferred compensation plan is available. This position enjoys paid time off, 24 hours of personal time, and 10 paid holidays annually. Relocation assistance and possible additional incentives including a hybrid work schedule and others, are subject to negotiation.