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Finance Director (Iowa)

Finance Director (Iowa)

$118,468 – $132,009 / year DOQ

The City of Spencer, Iowa (pop. 11,451), located in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region, is seeking a dynamic, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader to serve as its next Finance Director.  This executive-level position plays a critical role in shaping the City’s 32.5+ million-dollar budget, financial strategy, supporting long-term planning, and ensuring fiscal sustainability.

Reporting to the City Manager and working closely with the Mayor and City Council, the Finance Director is a Department Head / Officer of the City of Spencer appointed by City Council and oversees all financial operations of the City, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, debt management, and financial reporting. The position supervises two Finance Assistants and collaborates with other department heads, the City Clerk, and Human Resources to support citywide initiatives and services.
Spencer is a vibrant and growing community known for its strong civic spirit, historic downtown, and proximity to the scenic Iowa Great Lakes. The city is home to the renowned Clay County Fair, a thriving arts and culture scene, and a robust municipal utility system. With a diversified tax base, strong reserves, and a forward-looking Capital Improvements Plan, Spencer offers a stable and supportive environment for public service leadership.

Essential Duties

  * Primary responsibility will be project driven, with emphasis on coordinating workflow with the City Manager, City Clerk and City  Department Heads

  * Prepare the City budget in cooperation with City Manager and department heads for the Council's study and approval;

  * Monitor the City budget, overall financial position and financial functions of the City, in coordination with the City Manager

  * Attend all meetings of the City Council; work as part of the administrative team to accomplish and oversee all projects, functions and services of the City

  * Financial planning and financial analysis including review of financial records, monitor and review rate structure for enterprise funds

  * Direct the maintenance of an accounting system for the City government and its agencies in a manner consistent with established and accepted municipal accounting principles and practices and in sufficient detail to produce adequate cost, financial and statistical data for management purposes and to meet statutory requirements

  * Responsible for the City’s purchasing program; directs the process & establishes financial protocols

  * Direct the approval, audit and certification of all claims against the City for payrolls, goods and services

  * Coordinates & oversees the City’s property & liability insurance programs

  * Establishes process & protocols for inventory & fixed asset control

  * Compile statements of current operating and capital outlay expenditures and practices of accounting and auditing

  * Provide back-up and support to the City Clerk

  * Other duties as assigned


Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Administration, or a related field (CPA preferred).
  • 5–10 years of progressively responsible experience in municipal or county government finance.
  • IMFOA/GFOA certification or ability to obtain within 3 years of hire.
  • Strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and fiscal management.
  • Proven leadership, communication, and strategic planning skills.

Compensation: $118,468 – $132,009 / year DOQ


Excellent benefits package including:
  • IPERS Pension Plan & 457 Deferred Compensation
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and personal days
  • Relocation assistance
  • Cell phone allowance

To Apply
Interested candidates should apply online by September 2, 2025. Apply online with resume, cover letter, and five professional references to: MGT Careers

For additional information, contact Mike Brethorst, MGT Senior Consultant, at 218-329-0700.  The City of Spencer is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Application Deadline: September 2, 2025

Additional Info

Job Type : Full-Time

Education Level : Bachelors Degree

Experience Level : Director

Job Function : Finance

Contact Info : Mike Brethorst, MGT Senior Consultant, at 218-329-0700

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