City of Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Full-Time | Executive Leadership Position
Pay Range $115,000 -$140,000
Help Shape the Financial Future of a Dynamic City
The City of Pawtucket is seeking an accomplished, innovative, and results-oriented Director of Finance to serve as a key member of the Mayor’s Senior Management Team. This executive leadership position offers a unique opportunity to guide the City’s financial strategy, oversee critical municipal operations, and help ensure the long-term fiscal health of one of Rhode Island’s most vibrant communities.
Reporting directly to the Mayor, the Director of Finance is responsible for the administration, planning, and oversight of all municipal financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, payroll, purchasing, treasury functions, tax collection, assessment services, information technology, and human resources.
Position Highlights
The Director of Finance serves as the City’s chief financial executive and:
- Advises the Mayor and City leadership on all financial matters.
- Leads the development and administration of the City’s annual operating and capital budgets.
- Oversees municipal financial management, accounting, procurement, payroll, revenue collection, and reporting functions.
- Directs multiple departments, including Finance, Accounting, Collections, Human Resources, Information Technology, Tax Assessment, and Purchasing.
- Manages the City’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system (currently MUNIS).
- Coordinates annual external audits and ensures timely resolution of audit findings.
- Monitors compliance with federal, state, and municipal financial regulations.
- Supports City Council and committee meetings through financial analysis, presentations, and recommendations.
- Serves as an ex-officio member of the Pawtucket Water Supply Board and Purchasing Board.
- Administers the Police and Firefighters Pension Plan and oversees the City’s deferred compensation programs.
Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will be a forward-thinking financial leader with strong analytical skills, executive presence, and a commitment to public service. The ideal candidate will possess:
- Extensive knowledge of governmental accounting and municipal finance.
- Experience leading complex financial operations and multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong budgeting, forecasting, auditing, and financial reporting expertise.
- Knowledge of pension administration, treasury management, and capital planning.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Experience presenting financial information to elected officials, boards, and community stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high standards of accountability and transparency.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in government accounting and/or financial management.
- Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications
- Municipal finance experience.
- Strong knowledge of Rhode Island municipal finance laws and regulations.
- Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA), Public Administration (MPA), or related field.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
- Experience with MUNIS or comparable municipal ERP systems.
- Experience in pension administration, investment oversight, and strategic financial planning.
- Bilingual capabilities are a plus.
Why Join the City of Pawtucket?
This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a growing and evolving city with a growing economic base. The Director of Finance plays a critical role in shaping financial policy, advancing operational excellence, and supporting initiatives that improve services for residents and businesses.
The City offers:
- Executive-level leadership opportunity
- Competitive compensation commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Collaborative municipal leadership environment
- Opportunity to influence long-term community growth and fiscal sustainability
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and leadership experience.
Jillian Arkles- [email protected]
The City of Pawtucket is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.