Chief Financial Officer

Onslow Water & Sewer Authority (ONWASA) is seeking an experienced finance executive with significant governmental accounting to serve as its next Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The CFO has direct oversight of finance employees and is responsible for maintaining ONWASA’s financial analysis, reporting, operational accounting, risk management and compliance.  The ideal candidate should have experience modernizing finance departments with demonstratable success in implementing new policies and procedures to increase productivity and efficiency, impeccable communication, and interpersonal skills, and be a trusted leader who can effectively balance daily operational matters with annual duties and strategic planning and ethical stewardship of customer funds.

ONWASA is governed by an eight-member Board comprised of its member governments, Onslow County, Town of Holly Ridge, Town of Richlands, Swansboro, North Topsail Beach, and the City of Jacksonville and is regarded as a fiscally responsible, stable, and well managed Authority with sound budget and strong fund balance.

The primary purpose of the Finance Department is to establish and maintain a centralized ONWASA wide system of financial accounting, planning, investments, reporting, and controls. The CFO is responsible for oversight and coordination of the entire finance function.  Manages payroll, accounts payable, risk management, procurement, the fleet, and warehouse. The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) is prepared and published by this department.

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the CFO assists with the oversight of the ONWASA’s budget. The FY2023 budget of $35M, which is supported by customer revenue. The CFO must demonstrate knowledge and skill in governmental accounting; NC laws and regulations; procurement law; enterprise funds; state, federal, and private grant management and best practice financial procedures and operations that comply with North Carolina local government fiscal law and policy. The CFO must ensure the accounts of the Authority are compliant with generally accepted accounting principles and disburse all funds in the strict compliance with Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act and maintain ONWASA’s A+ bond rating.  This executive should have experience utilizing external resources such as the Local Government Commission and the School of Government.

The hiring range is $133,000 to $147,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.  The Authority offers an excellent benefits package including membership in the Local Government Employees’ Retirement System, a 401(k) with 3% employer match, State Health Plan, dental and vision insurance, etc. 

Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field. A Master’s Degree and/or Certified North Carolina Local Government Finance Officer designation or CPA preferred. Ten years of progressive leadership experience in governmental finance or organization-wide financial management, including five years of supervisory experience preferably in a local government setting. An equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered. NC Local Government Finance Officers Certification is required within one year of hire, contingent upon the availability of the courses. 

Must have the ability to be bonded and possess a valid driver’s license in the State of NC.

Background and driving record check, and pre-employment drug screening in accordance with ONWASA's Drug-Free Workplace policy required

To apply, visit www.onwasa.com.  Resume and Cover Letter must be uploaded.