Hilton Head Island, SC (pop. 38,097) The Town of Hilton Head Island, one of the most visited tourist destinations in the region, is seeking a confident and collaborative financial leader, experienced in municipal government, who can guide teams, build trust across departments, and play a key role in the Town’s strategic financial planning as the new Assistant Finance Director. This is not a behind-the-scenes accounting role, it requires someone who leads with integrity, engages proactively, and contributes meaningfully to Town-wide priorities.

Hilton Head Island is a close-knit community with a year-round population of approximately 38,097, although during the peak of summer vacation season the population can swell to 150,000. The island features 12 miles of beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean and offers more than 70 miles of multi-use pathways. Hilton Head Island is the largest barrier island in the southeastern United States. Located in the Lowcountry, at the southern boundary of South Carolina, the island has a beautiful natural environment and rich cultural history stretching back from Native American habitation and through the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. This history is visible today in the many protected archaeological and cultural sites on the Island, and preserved in the living, native Gullah community.

The Assistant Finance Director – Accounting Administration; is a key leadership role within the Finance Department, providing direct supervision of the Accounting Division to ensure compliance with Federal, State, GAAP, and GASB standards, as well as Town policies. This position plays a central role in overseeing the Town's accounting operations, supporting budget and audit processes, enhancing financial systems, and analyzing financial data to inform strategic decisions. The Assistant Director collaborates closely with the Treasury team, department leaders, and external auditors to support the Town’s financial health and transparency.

This role requires leadership presence, with the ability to inspire teams, foster interdepartmental collaboration, and contribute to strategic financial direction. The successful candidate will be a proactive leader, driving results and cultivating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Proven leadership experience within municipal finance or a similar public-sector environment and the ability to lead through influence, build relationships across departments, and contribute to Town-wide initiatives is paramount to the position.

The responsibilities of the Assistant Finance Director include:

• Direct and supervise daily accounting operations, including accounts payable and payroll functions.
• Coordinate with the Treasury team on cash management and investment activities.
• Lead monthly financial close processes and conduct variance analysis to budgets and prior periods.
• Prepare and distribute monthly financial reports and presentations for management and Town Council.
• Support the Finance Director in preparing the Town’s annual budget and rolling financial forecasts.
• Lead the preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and manage the external audit process.
• Develop and refine financial models, policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Analyze and report financial and operational data, including key performance metrics.
• Ensure compliance with applicable financial regulations, including FOIA and external reporting requirements.
• Contribute to financial due diligence and support Town-wide strategic initiatives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• 10 to 15 years or more of related experience in progressively responsive work in municipal accounting including supervision.
• Certified Public Accountant certification preferred or must be willing to achieve certification within a 3-year period from hire date.

Benefits

Residency is not required. This is a full-time position. The salary range is $120,000 - $135,000 +/-DOQ. The Town of Hilton Head offers an excellent benefit package which includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, vacation, and sick leave, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, a healthcare reimbursement arrangement, and a generous matching 401(k) plan. Relocation assistance is available for candidates relocating to the area.

How to Apply

Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with a resume, cover letter and contact information for five professional references by May 23, 2025. Confidential inquiries may be directed to Riccardo (Rick) Ginex, MGT Approved Independent Executive Recruiter, at Tel: 847-380-3240, ext. 160.
Additional information about the Town of Hilton Head can be found on the Town’s website:
https://hiltonheadislandsc.gov/.

The Town of Hilton Head Island is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.