Just to the west of the majestic San Juan Mountains, high on southwest Colorado’s desert plateau sits the City of Cortez. “Platted in 1886, incorporated in 1902, and becoming a city in 1952, the founding date of Cortez is (open) to interpretation,” says the City’s budget. Rich in ancient history and natural beauty, Cortez (pop. 8,800, elev. 6,191, 6.21 sq. mi.) is the largest city in Montezuma County, and its county seat. Residents enjoy access to the massive San Juan National Forest, every manner of outdoor recreation, and the serenity of the high desert and the American West. The city’s FY 2025 budget of $41 million (GF $14.9 million) supports 150 FTE.

Reporting directly to the city manager, the finance director oversees a budget of $865,000 and a department of 6.0 FTE. The next director will inherit a dedicated, experienced team and a department where work-life balance is encouraged. The finance department is the strategic business partner of every other city department – the director must understand each of their unique business needs, collaborate with them, and provide teaching, coaching, and guidance. After years of painstaking work to turn around the city’s finances, the city is now “debt free” and enjoys a strong financial position with enough cash on hand to fund operations for nearly 300 days. City Manager Drew Sanders is looking for a true partner, someone who is both a strategic and tactical thinker, and who has good situational awareness.

A bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, or a related field, and three years of governmental finance experience, including supervisory experience, are required. Required experience includes accounting, auditing, budget preparation and administration, data processing, finance, financial reporting, investments, and taxation. Experience in local government finance is strongly preferred. A graduate degree, GFOA credentialing, and experience with Caselle governmental accounting software are all preferred. At its sole option, the city will consider an equivalent combination of education and experience.

The hiring range for this position is $120,000 to $160,000, and appointment will be made
depending upon the qualifications of the selected candidate. In addition, the following
benefits are provided: health (city pays approx. 90%, employee, 10%) and dental (city
pays 100%) insurances; life insurance; mandatory 5% supplemental retirement, matched
100% by the city, plus optional voluntary deferred compensation plan; vacation, sick, and
discretionary leave, plus 13 paid holidays; and employee assistance program. Relocation
assistance and possible additional incentives are subject to negotiation.