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Job Description
West Whiteland Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania West Whiteland Township is seeking an experienced and motivated municipal finance professional to serve as its Assistant Finance Director. This is an exceptional opportunity for a talented local government finance professional to work alongside the Township's Finance Director/Chief Financial Officer, gain exposure to all aspects of municipal financial management, and prepare for future leadership opportunities within a highly respected organization. The successful candidate will possess a strong background in governmental accounting and municipal finance, a commitment to public service, and the leadership skills necessary to support a high-performing finance operation.
COMMUNITY PROFILE
West Whiteland Township is located approximately 30 miles west of Philadelphia in the heart of Chester County and encompasses the vibrant Exton crossroads of Routes 30 and 100. The Township serves approximately 19,600 residents and a daytime population exceeding 26,000. Strategic planning, a diverse transportation network, and continued redevelopment throughout the Exton area have positioned the Township for sustained growth and investment. West Whiteland's mission is to provide residents and businesses with high-quality, cost-effective local government services that promote public safety, economic vitality, and long-term sustainability. The Township is widely recognized for its sound financial management. Moody's Investors Service awarded West Whiteland Township its highest possible Aaa bond rating, citing the Township's strong tax base, healthy reserves, prudent financial policies, and effective management practices.
THE POSITION
The Finance Department consists of five dedicated professionals responsible for managing the Township's financial resources and ensuring compliance with governmental accounting standards and best practices. Reporting directly to the Finance Director and working closely with the Township Manager, the Assistant Finance Director serves as a key member of the Township's management team. The position assists in overseeing all aspects of municipal financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, treasury management, debt administration, payroll, purchasing, auditing, grants management, and regulatory compliance. The Assistant Finance Director will play an active role in departmental leadership, staff development, financial planning, and organizational decision-making. The successful candidate will serve as acting Finance Director when necessary and work collaboratively with Township staff, elected officials, auditors, consultants, financial institutions, and regulatory agencies.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist in the management and administration of all Township financial operations. Participate in the preparation and administration of annual operating and capital budgets. Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports. Maintain and oversee governmental fund accounting records and general ledger activities. Support revenue administration, utility billing, tax collection coordination, accounts receivable, and grant management. Support and perform, as needed, accounts payable, payroll, purchasing, cash management, and investment activities. Coordinate annual audit activities and prepare supporting schedules and documentation. Assist with preparation of the Annual Financial Report and Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A). Monitor financial performance and prepare forecasts, analyses, and special reports. Assist with debt issuance, refinancing activities, and continuing disclosure requirements. Support pension and OPEB administration and reporting. Review and strengthen internal controls, financial policies, and operational procedures when necessary to support efficient and effective operations. Supervise finance personnel and assist with employee development and performance management. Provide financial analysis and recommendations to the Finance Director, Township Manager, and Board of Supervisors. Serve as acting Finance Director in the Director's absence. Perform other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field. Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal finance, governmental accounting, or public-sector financial management. Thorough knowledge of governmental accounting principles, budgeting, financial reporting, auditing, and internal controls. Experience preparing financial statements, supporting annual audits, and developing budgets. Strong leadership, communication, analytical, and organizational skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic municipal environment.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will combine strong technical expertise with sound judgment, initiative, and a collaborative leadership style. They will possess a thorough understanding of municipal finance operations, a commitment to continuous improvement, and the ability to build positive working relationships with staff, elected officials, and community stakeholders. This individual will thrive in a fast-paced environment, bring innovative ideas and proven practices to the organization, and contribute to maintaining West Whiteland Township's reputation for financial excellence.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT & SUCCESSION OPPORTUNITY
West Whiteland Township views this position as an important component of its long-term leadership development strategy. The selected candidate will work closely with the current Finance Director and gain hands-on experience in all facets of Township financial management. The Township seeks a professional who is interested in growing with the organization and who may be prepared to assume increasing responsibilities and future leadership opportunities as part of a planned succession process.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and completed employment application through the Township's online application portal. Applications will be reviewed as received and the position will remain open until filled. West Whiteland Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
M/F/H/D Job Type:
Full-time Benefits:
Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance
Experience:
municipal accounting: 5 years (Required) Tyler Tech -
