Finance Director
City of St Joseph, Traverse City, MI, United States
Guide Financial Excellence in Public Transportation!
Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) is seeking an experienced and strategic Finance Director to serve as a key member of our leadership team. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Finance Director will oversee all financial operations and play a critical role in ensuring the organization’s financial stability, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
This role is ideal for a seasoned finance professional who thrives in a mission-driven, public-sector environment and enjoys partnering with executive leadership, governing boards, and department leaders to support informed decision-making.
What You’ll Do
As Finance Director, you will serve as BATA’s chief financial officer and chief accountant, providing oversight, leadership, and strategic insight across all financial functions.
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead all accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, audit, and compliance activities in accordance with GAAP and governmental accounting standards
- Ensure accurate and timely month-end and year-end closings, general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, and journal entries
- Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to executive leadership and the Board, including reliable cash-flow projections
- Develop, manage, and revise the annual operating budget and capital plan; perform cost-of-service analyses and budget variance reporting
- Establish and maintain strong internal controls, policies, procedures, and segregation of duties
- Oversee grants accounting, billing, and compliance, including quarterly and annual reporting to MDOT
- Lead preparation for financial and governmental audits and serve as a primary point of contact for auditors
- Supervise, coach, and develop accounting staff; participate in hiring and performance management
- Partner with department leaders to support budget development and responsible financial stewardship
- Identify opportunities to strengthen BATA’s financial position through analysis of obligations, vendor relationships, and operational efficiencies
- Contribute to special projects, attend meetings, and deliver presentations as requested
What We’re Looking For
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
- Minimum of five to seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including supervisory responsibility
- Strong knowledge of GAAP and governmental accounting principles
- Demonstrated experience with budgeting, financial analysis, internal controls, and audits
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, with strong data analysis and reporting skills
- Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and professionally
Preferred Qualifications
- CPA, CPA candidate, or CMA credential
- Experience in public accounting or with governmental or public-sector organizations
- Familiarity with QuickBooks or similar accounting systems