City of Lake Forest, IL (pop. 19,368)

Finance Director

Starting Salary: $210,000 +/-

Are you ready to take on a pivotal leadership role in one of Illinois’ most prestigious communities? The City of Lake Forest (pop. 19,368), a historic community on the shores of Lake Michigan, is seeking an exceptional Finance Director/Treasurer to help shape its financial future. The City desires a forward-thinking leader with experience in municipal finance management practices, exceptional interpersonal skills, and the vision to seek out and capitalize on opportunities to improve the City’s long-term financial position.

Why Lake Forest?

Located 30 miles north of Chicago, Lake Forest is renowned for its:

Healthy financial reserves and proactive public safety pension and capital investment strategy aimed to aggressively reduce long-term liabilities.
Beautiful residential neighborhoods and thriving Central Business District.
Top-rated schools, family-friendly atmosphere, and thousands of acres of preserved open space.
Home to the Chicago Bears’ and thriving corporate tenants, including Pfizer and Abbott.

With a ‘Aaa’ bond rating, GFOA Triple Crown Award, and the lowest property tax rate in Lake County, Lake Forest is in an exceptional position with elected leadership committed to fiscal stewardship viewed through the lens of long-term horizons. A home rule municipality operating under the Council-Manager form of government, the City’s 228 employees provide a full range of municipal services, funded by a $117 million FY25 budget which includes $23.35 million in capital improvements.

The Role: Finance Director/Treasurer

As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, you will lead the City’s Finance Department, a talented team of eight full-time professionals, and oversee all aspects of financial operations, including preparation of the annual budget, financial reporting, purchasing, treasury management, and utility billing.

This is an opportunity to:

Work directly with the City Manager and City Council committees to develop strategic financial plans.
Drive innovation and explore creative financial initiatives to secure Lake Forest’s long-term fiscal health.
Manage a balanced annual budget, five-year Capital Improvement Program, and long-term forecasts.

The outgoing Finance Director leaves behind a legacy of 13 years of strong leadership, giving you the opportunity to build upon a foundation of success.

What We’re Looking For:

The ideal candidate will bring:

A Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business/public administration, or a related field (Master’s, CPFO, or CPA preferred).
At least five years of leadership experience in municipal accounting experience, including experience in managing financial operations at the director, deputy director or equivalent level, or an equivalent combination of experience and training.
Exceptional communication and customer service abilities to engage internal and external stakeholders.
Deep knowledge of governmental budgets, audits, GASB/GAAP standards, and financial planning.

Experience with current ERP systems and implementations (BS&A financial software preferred).

Skills in grants management and economic development financing (TIF) structures.

Compensation & Benefits

We value our team members and offer a competitive package, including:

Starting salary: $210,000 +/- DOQ with an annual merit bonus program of up to 5% of base salary.
Flexible schedule and remote work options.
Four weeks of vacation to start.
Membership in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) and access to 457 deferred compensation plans.
Comprehensive health plan options (details available on the City’s website).
Residency is not required.

How to Apply

Be a part of shaping Lake Forest’s future! Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com by January 24, 2025, for best consideration. Position is open until filled.

Applications should include a resume, cover letter, and contact information for five professional references.

Confidential inquiries are welcome and can be directed to Maureen Barry, Senior Consultant, MGT, at 847-380-3240, x116.

The City of Lake Forest is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The City of Lake Forest

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