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RH
Robert Half
Director of Finance
Career Insights for Fiscal / Budget Director (Public Sector)
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Based on Tennessee data
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What they do
A Fiscal Director or Budget Director manages the budget and finance department of government agencies or cities. They manage the operations of the budget and finance department; including leading analysts and staff. They review and make recommendations on budget requests and options in terms of policy, programs and objectives for the agency or city while ensuring compliance with policies, procedures, regulations and statutes. They are responsible for the accumulation of data to support the development of financial analysis and budgeting, including the preparation of quarterly, monthly and annual financial performance measures.
$202,450 / year median in Tennessee
+16% projected growth
Job Description
Description We are helping a prestigious client look for a strategic finance leader to oversee accounting operations, budgeting, and financial reporting for a public-sector organization in Memphis, Tennessee. This role will guide a multi-functional team, strengthen fiscal controls, and provide clear financial insight to support executive decision-making. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in governmental or utility-related finance and a proven ability to lead departments through operational priorities with confidence and accountability.
Responsibilities:
- Direct the day-to-day activities of accounting, payroll, payment processing, and banking functions while leading a team of 11 direct reports.
- Oversee the preparation of annual budgets, monitor budget performance, and recommend adjustments that align financial resources with organizational priorities.
- Manage month-end and year-end close processes to ensure timely, accurate financial statements and compliance with applicable reporting standards.
- Develop cash flow projections and evaluate funding needs to maintain financial stability and support long-term planning.
- Ensure financial practices meet governmental accounting requirements, regulatory obligations, and internal control expectations.
- Provide leadership for utility-related financial operations, including areas such as billing oversight and revenue tracking where applicable.
- Establish performance expectations and early milestone plans for new and existing team members to drive progress during the first 30, 60, and 90 days.
- Partner with executive leadership to present financial analysis, identify risks, and support strategic decisions affecting the organization.
- Contribute to departmental improvement efforts, including process optimization and adoption of financial systems and tools such as Taleo where relevant. Requirements
- At least 7 years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including leadership responsibility for staff with strong attention to detail.
- Background in public sector, government, county, or utility finance with working knowledge of governmental accounting principles.
- Demonstrated expertise in annual budgeting, budget administration, and financial reporting.
- Strong understanding of month-end close procedures, cash flow forecasting, and internal financial controls.
- Experience managing accounting operations that may include payroll, banking, payments, and utility billing activities.
- Proven ability to lead teams effectively, develop staff, and manage multiple priorities in a structured environment.
- Familiarity with government compliance requirements and state or local reporting expectations.
- Proficiency with finance-related systems and the ability to adapt to organizational software platforms.