Controller/Deputy Chief Financial Officer

The Position 

The City of Fort Collins seeks a visionary and highly skilled Controller/Deputy Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to drive business strategies and lead the Accounting and Financial Operations Department,  overseeing the operations of the Accounting, Fiscal Recovery, Finance Operations (Accounts  Payable/Accounts Receivable), Financial Information Systems, and Payroll divisions. The  Controller/Deputy Chief Financial Officer (CFO) leads the development and maintenance of strong  internal controls and daily accounting practices, ensuring consistency and financial integrity across all  City departments. This role plays a critical part in the City’s financial planning, cash management, and  investment strategies, serving as a key advisor to the Chief Financial Officer and the broader leadership  team in analyzing and improving the City’s financial performance. 

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller/Deputy performs advanced and specialized  accounting assignments, often handling complex and confidential data that informs executive-level  decision-making. The Controller/Deputy CFO leads the development and maintenance of strong internal  controls and daily accounting practices, ensuring consistency and financial integrity across all City  departments. This role is responsible for the accurate and timely preparation of financial statements,  including the coordination of the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), while  ensuring compliance with the City Charter, state and federal regulations, Generally Accepted Accounting  Principles (GAAP), and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) requirements. The  Controller/Deputy CFO also leads, documents, and manages the month-end and year-end financial close  processes, providing both operational oversight and strategic financial leadership. 

The Controller/Deputy CFO develops and implements departmental goals, policies, priorities, and  operating procedures to ensure the financial health and efficiency of the organization. They safeguard the  City’s assets through rigorous control systems, regularly evaluating processes for improvement  opportunities, and driving enhancements that increase financial transparency, efficiency, and accuracy. The Controller/Deputy Chief Financial Officer is excited by the opportunity to provide strategic  leadership, evolve accounting and financial operations, and effectively collaborate to strengthen the  organization to meet the needs of the Fort Collins community. The successful candidate is an adaptable,  people-centered leader with the confidence and backbone to make tough, thoughtful decisions while  maintaining strong relationships across the organization. They strike a balance between innovation and  appreciation for existing successes, while enforcing financial policies with professionalism and fairness.  

The ideal candidate is committed to ethical stewardship, data-driven decision-making, and setting clear  expectations to achieve results. They are skilled in navigating a hybrid financial model that incorporates  both centralized and decentralized functions and understand the nuances of both budget expansion and budget reductions. The Controller/Deputy CFO brings significant experience in both the private and  public sectors, with a focus on municipal finance, including municipal debt financing, bond issuance, and  budget management. Deep expertise in accounting standards such as GASB and GAAP is essential to the  Controller/Deputy CFO’s success.  

Qualifications 

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe  they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. The City may consider an  equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. 

At least twelve (12) years of management experience with the analysis and preparation of financial  statements, including balance sheet, income statement, and monthly management reporting, is required.  Advanced expertise in financial reporting, internal controls, and federal grant compliance, with a  thorough understanding of accounting standards, is essential. A diverse background that includes  government accounting is ideal. Excellent public speaking skills, coupled with the ability to communicate  complex financial information and present confidently to diverse stakeholder groups, are required.  

A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or related field is required, with a master’s degree preferred. A  Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is preferred. An equivalent combination of experience and education  that enables success as the Controller/Deputy Chief Financial Officer will be considered. 

Compensation and Benefits  

The City of Fort Collins offers a competitive comprehensive benefits package, including a market salary  commensurate with education and experience. The annual salary range is $123,000 – $206,000, and the  anticipated hiring range is $155,000 – $175,000; salaries are paid biweekly. Benefits include medical,  dental, vision, life, and short- and long-term disability insurance. Additionally, the City of Fort Collins  offers additional benefits, including 401(a) and a 457 deferred compensation plan with an employer  contribution, an optional Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, a significant Wellness  Program, and relocation assistance for the successful out-of-area finalist. 

How to Apply 

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. For full consideration, please apply  by Monday, August 11, 2025.