Chief Financial Officer

Kind of Work

This is highly responsible, complex and strategic work in managing, planning and directing all financial resources and administrative functions of the Mobile Housing Authority and providing operational and programmatic support for the organization.

Examples of Work

(Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks which may be found in positions of this class.)  

Directs budget and cost controls, financial analysis, accounting practices, payroll functions, insurance coverage and evaluation, purchasing and inventory expenditures. 

Oversees Capital Funds Program (CFP) purchase requisitions.

Ensures timely financial and statistical reports for management and Board of Commissioners (BOC) use.  

Analyzes and interprets financial data and recommends changes to improve systems and financial performance.

Oversees monthly operating subsidy drawdowns, monthly checks run, funds transfers, etc., and maintains general ledgers required for each program in compliance with federal, state, and local requirements. 

Designs, implements, and maintains project-based accounting system for the conventional housing programs.

Develops and maintains an efficient internal auditing system to assure integrity in the use of funds, equipment, materials, and personnel to safeguard the Agency’s funds and property.

Directs the preparation of budget documents and budget submissions to HUD and other local agencies as required and is responsible for the control of and adherence to items contained within the budget after approval of the Budget by the BOC. Conducts budget workshops with other directors and commissioners during the budget process.

Oversees multiple divisions with the Finance Department, supervises subordinates (including hiring, disciplinary actions, appraisals, training, etc.); Advises, mentors, and assists employees when needed; establishes performance standards and assists in the development of work plans; monitors annual work plans’ progress and accomplishments; ensuring all deadlines are met.

Directs the preparation of monthly financial statements, balance sheets, and various regular reports to ensure timely flow of information to the Chief Executive Officer, BOC, HUD and third-party participants as appropriate regarding the financial condition of the Agency and status of all programs and budgets.  Forecasts revenue for the Agency, develops fiscal impact statements, and provides advice on economic development activities. 

Reviews and analyzes financial statements and requests, revises and/or approves reports prepared by staff, creates and develops departmental policies, plans, priorities, goals, and objectives, and controls Agency funds to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations and Agency rules and procedures.

Ensures accounting and financial systems are maintained in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and establishes and maintains appropriate internal controls to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations and Agency rules and procedures.

Provides management and oversight of the Agency’s computer systems, voice, and data communications networks by working with MIS subordinates and vendors to identify and evaluate technology needs and provide technical solutions and cost-effective approaches for daily administrative and Agency operations.

Represents the Finance Department to other Agency departments, elected officials, community-based organizations; and coordinates Department activities with those of other departments and external agencies and organizations as appropriate.  Communicates and coordinates accounting policies, practices, and procedures with department and Agency managers, vendors, reporting agencies, clients, and the public.

Aids and supports functional areas, resolves conflicts, complaints and disputes as they arise; assists with brainstorming and strategic planning for Agency initiatives; reviews and assists in all financial related transactions pursued or conducted by the Agency; invests surplus funds; administration of debt; attends various meetings.

Stays abreast of all changes in the regulatory environment, studies HUD regulations, laws, ordinances and publications, as well as those being considered; attends conferences, training, and meetings; reviews HUD pronouncements, state law changes and local directives to ensure compliance in all areas; comments on any proposed changes that would negatively affect the Agency and ensures timely implementation of new guidance.

Participates on a variety of advisory committees, participates to promote affordable housing; maintaining a positive profile in the community and nationally; works with City officials on housing issues.

Establishes policies and procedures, assures that appropriate records are established and maintained in accordance with professional practices and HUD regulations; and ensures reviews are performed as needed to determine if policies and procedures are still valid and controls are still in place; implements new and updated policies and procedures; and communicates changes to staff.

Assists the Chief Executive Officer - MHA with operational and strategic planning; recommends, facilitates, and enforces strategic, managerial and administrative policies, procedures and initiatives, including agency planning, finance, procurement, grants development, community development, construction, and redevelopment.

Assists with analyzing potential employee benefit packages and the organization’s retirement plan.

Evaluates the continuing financial viability of housing properties; audits, evaluates and makes recommendations concerning operational programs; coordinates key initiatives and related activities with other directors and department heads.

Performs related work as required.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Attainment of a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, preferably a master’s degree, from a recognized college or university in business administration, public administration or closely related area and a minimum of five years increasingly responsible senior management level experience in directing the financial, operational and strategic functions of a housing authority, housing management company or other housing provider with multi-family, affordable housing and single family housing programs; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to these requirements.

The following U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development certifications must be obtained within the one (1) year working test period (WTP) unless written approval for an extension is authorized by the Chief Executive Officer-MHA or his/her designee:

•Procurement and Contract Management

•Fair Housing   

Essential Requirements of the Work

Comprehensive knowledge of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulations applicable to public housing authorities, housing and community development organizations and programs; comprehensive knowledge of accounting, fiscal and organizational management principles and procedures; comprehensive knowledge of federal procurement and contracting practices; thorough knowledge of local, state and federal laws and regulations governing business operations and employment; thorough knowledge of budget development and management practices; good knowledge of accounting information systems; good knowledge of HUD’s electronic information and data systems; ability to develop financial strategy plans to meet agency requirements; ability to plan, schedule, supervise and manage contractual obligations and relationships; ability to interpret relevant state, federal, local and special program laws and regulations; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to research, develop and prepare detailed reports; and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with public officials, HUD officials, employees, state funding agencies, businesses, community organizations, residents and the general public. This position may be required to work extended hours before, during, and/or after a disaster, including additional responsibilities outside of normal operations. 

Special Requirement

Must possess a valid driver's license from state of residence.

Distinguishing Features of the Work

An employee in this class serves as the Chief Financial Officer and is responsible for assisting the Chief Executive Officer-MHA in managing the budget, developing and implementing the strategic vision of the organization, and for providing oversight, direction and administrative support for all aspects of Mobile Housing Authority’s financial, entitlement grant administration, redevelopment, construction, modernization, community development, general services, planning and administrative operations.    Work is performed under the general direction of the Chief Executive Officer - MHA or other superior in accordance with established guidelines and procedures with considerable latitude for the exercise of independent judgment.    Supervision is exercised over subordinate personnel.

Working Test Period (WTP)

1 year