Position Overview

The Finance Director serves as the executive leader of the City’s Finance Department, responsible for safeguarding the City’s financial resources and ensuring fiscal accountability across all departments. This includes oversight of accounting, treasury and cash management, investments, debt management, purchasing, utility billing, and financial planning. The Director provides strategic financial leadership, advises the City Manager and Council, and ensures compliance with the City Charter, City Code, and state and federal requirements.

Primary Purpose

To ensure the City’s financial stability, transparency, and sustainability by directing comprehensive financial management, planning, and reporting in alignment with the City’s strategic priorities and the Sterling City Charter.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Under the general policy direction of the City Manager, the Finance Director is required by Charter and Code to perform the following:

Charter-Mandated Duties
Compile current expense estimates and capital estimates for the City’s annual budget.
Supervise and control disbursement of all City monies, ensuring expenditures remain within budget appropriations and comply with law.
Maintain a general accounting system for the City government and all departments, keeping separate accounts for each appropriation and ensuring accurate reporting of obligations and balances.
Submit monthly statements of receipts and disbursements to Council, providing a clear picture of the City’s financial condition.
Prepare complete annual financial statements and reports at the end of each fiscal year.
Collect all taxes, special assessments, licenses, fees, and other revenues; receive all monies due to the City from state, federal, judicial, or agency sources.
Issue all licenses in conformity with ordinance, following proper approvals.
Maintain custody of all City funds, depositing them in authorized depositories, and ensuring proper bonding, surety, and interest compliance.
Oversee general storerooms and warehouses; transfer or sell surplus property as authorized.
Ensure competitive bidding on purchases and contracts exceeding thresholds defined by ordinance; oversee compliance with purchasing and procurement regulations.
Ensure proper accounting control of purchases and execution of contracts.

Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develops the Finance Department’s mission, goals, and objectives in alignment with the City’s strategic priorities.
Provides professional financial advice to the City Manager, City Council, and department heads.
Formulates financial policies, procedures, and performance standards that ensure accountability and compliance.
Leads continuous improvement and modernization of financial systems and processes, exploring technology-driven solutions that align with organizational goals and enhance financial transparency.

Financial Stewardship
Directs all financial operations including accounting, treasury, investments, debt, and financial reporting.
Develops and manages the City’s annual operating and capital budgets; ensures fiscal responsibility across departments.
Oversees revenue collection, cash management, utility billing, grants administration, and tax administration (sales tax, marijuana tax, hotel tax, etc.).
Prepares and submits monthly and annual financial reports; ensures compliance with GASB standards, state statutes, and federal reporting requirements.
Coordinates and prepares documentation for the annual audit.

Operational Oversight
Directs city-wide purchasing, contracting, and inventory control systems in compliance with Charter requirements.
Ensures strong internal controls, risk management, and protection of City assets.
Oversees accounts payable, accounts receivable, and collection processes.
Administers compliance for municipal debt, special assessments, and reserve funds.

People & Culture Leadership
Hires, supervises, and develops Finance Department staff; sets clear expectations and evaluates performance.
Promotes teamwork, accountability, and professional development within the department.
Ensures staff are properly trained and equipped to deliver accurate and timely financial services.

Community & Council Engagement
Prepares financial presentations and reports for City Council and management team.
Represents the City at professional and intergovernmental meetings.
Provides transparent, accessible financial information to the community and external agencies.
Emergency & Special Operations

Provides financial analysis for major projects, grants, and emergency situations.
Participates on special task forces and supports city-wide initiatives as required.

Core Competencies

Financial Acumen: Mastery of governmental accounting, budgeting, debt management, and investments.
Leadership: Ability to set vision, delegate effectively, and develop staff.
Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical ability to interpret complex financial issues.
Communication: Skilled in presenting complex financial information to diverse audiences.
Integrity & Accountability: Commitment to ethical stewardship of public resources.
Adaptability: Ability to manage change, innovate, and remain resilient under pressure.
Qualifications
Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
CPA or Master’s Degree preferred.
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory/management role.
OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Technical Competencies

Comprehensive knowledge of governmental accounting and municipal finance.
Expertise in budget development, financial reporting, auditing, and internal controls.
Proficiency in investment management, debt issuance, and financial forecasting.
Skilled in procurement, contract administration, and grant compliance.
Strong understanding of financial management and enterprise software systems, with demonstrated ability to assess, implement, and optimize technology solutions that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and access to financial data.
Advanced computer skills including spreadsheets, reporting tools, and database management.
Leadership & Interpersonal Competencies

Ability to lead and motivate professional staff.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate across departments and with elected officials.
Commitment to customer service, professionalism, and ethical standards.
Licensing/Certifications

Must possess and maintain a valid Colorado driver’s license.
Physical Requirements

Sedentary office work with ability to lift up to 20 pounds.
Visual, auditory, and cognitive abilities sufficient for financial analysis and reporting.
Occasional standing, walking, and attending evening meetings.
Working Conditions

Primarily office-based.
Occasional evening meetings, special projects, and extended hours required.
Subject to call-back during emergency financial or operational incidents.

What We Offer

Health coverage you can count on – Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
Peace of mind – City-paid life and AD&D insurance, plus options to add more coverage for you and your family.
Support when you need it – Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
Time to recharge – Paid time off starting at 7.39 hours per pay period (and growing with service) plus paid holidays.
Future-focused – 5.37% City contribution to a 401(a) retirement plan after one year, plus voluntary 457(b) pre-tax and Roth savings plans.
Wellness perks – Incentives for participating in wellness activities, and free access for you and your household to the Sterling Recreation Center and Logan County Shooting Range.
Extra protection – Optional supplemental insurance plans, plus legal and identity protection options.
Always here for you – 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Program for counseling, resources, and work-life balance support.

Apply Now – Position Open Until Filled

If you're ready to start a meaningful job with strong benefits, training support, and long-term growth potential, apply today!

The City of Sterling is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who are ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference.