Comptroller of Finance

Job Title: Comptroller of Finance
 
Department: Finance
Location: Town of Wappinger, NY
Reports To: Town Supervisor/Town Board
 
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:
 
The Comptroller of Finance is an exempt position responsible for the general superintendence of the fiscal affairs of the municipality. The incumbent oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, auditing, financial reporting, and compliance with New York State (NYS) regulations. Working under the administrative supervision of the governing body, the Comptroller ensures financial transparency and stability by maintaining accurate records, enforcing fiscal policies, and advising municipal leadership on economic planning and financial management. The governing body reviews the work of the Comptroller for conformance to applicable laws and policies.
 
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
 
1. Maintains records of appropriations, encumbrances, and expenditures, prescribing approved accounting methods for all municipal departments.
2. Certifies the availability of funds for all requisitions, contracts, purchase orders, and financial obligations incurred by the municipality.
3. Prescribes the form of receipts, vouchers, bills, and claims, ensuring compliance with standards set by the NYS Comptroller.
4. Audits and certifies for payment all lawful claims, invoices, and charges against the municipality.
5. Conducts quarterly audits of internal accounts and financial controls, ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) regulations.
6. Prepares and submits monthly budget updates to the governing body, reflecting Board-approved changes to the annual budget.
7. Oversees the preparation and submission of NYS financial filings and tax reports, including payroll taxes, sales tax filings, and other statutory reporting requirements.
8. Advises municipal leadership on fiscal planning, cost control measures, debt management, and revenue optimization strategies.
9. Develops and implements internal control procedures to safeguard municipal assets and prevent fraud.
10. Manages cash flow, investments, and fund allocations, ensuring sound financial practices and liquidity.
11. Works with external auditors during annual audits, addressing findings and implementing recommended improvements.
12. Oversees municipal insurance coverage and risk management strategies to protect against property losses and liabilities.
13. Supervises finance department staff, ensuring adherence to municipal finance policies and best practices.
14. Performs all other duties as required by law or assigned by the governing body.
 
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
 
• Comprehensive knowledge of municipal finance, accounting principles, and auditing practices in accordance with GAAP and GASB.
• Strong understanding of NYS municipal finance laws, tax regulations, and reporting requirements.
• Expertise in budget preparation, financial forecasting, and expenditure monitoring.
• Knowledge of operational adjustments due to tax revisions and fiscal policy changes.
• Proficiency in risk management, insurance coverage, and liability protection strategies.
• Experience developing and enforcing internal control systems to ensure financial integrity.
• Ability to analyze complex financial data, identify trends, and provide actionable recommendations to municipal leadership.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate with elected officials, department heads, and external auditors.
• Proficiency in financial software, reporting tools, and Microsoft Excel.
• High level of integrity, attention to detail, and analytical thinking.
 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least five (5) years of progressively responsible accounting or auditing experience, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory or municipal finance role.
• Strong familiarity with municipal budgeting, fund accounting, and NYS tax and financial reporting requirements.
 
Preferred Qualifications:
• Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Public Administration.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) designation.
 
This position plays a critical role in ensuring the fiscal stability of the municipality and requires a high level of financial expertise, accountability, and strategic planning.
 
Salary: Commensurate with experience.