Location: Concord,MA, USA
Finance Manager
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of an operation residents take pride in. We are seeking a skilled professional to oversee the accounting, financial analysis & other general financial management functions of our municipal-owned, public utility offering electric & broadband service.
Our commitment to service extends beyond our doors - you'll be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact on our customers' lives in a way that very few other jobs can. Not a week goes by without us hearing from the community that they are satisfied with work we have done.
Beyond the walls of CMLP, you'll find yourself nestled within the historical community of Concord. Steeped in rich heritage and brimming with cultural experiences, this community offers something for everyone. Explore its well-preserved landmarks, visit its open space, or simply enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere of its two downtown centers with charming restaurants and local shops. And more than just a welcoming place to be in, you'll be embraced by a public who believes in the core values that shape public power.
Success in this position requires strong organizational, planning, decision-making, supervisory skills & proficiency with accounting & financial management applications, including utility billing & general ledger software. Ideal candidates will understand GAAP, FERC accounting requirements, & DPU regulations & requirements. Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field, plus seven or more years of progressively responsible experience including supervisory experience in accounting, business administration or management in the public utility sector; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. MCGA designation by the MMAAA or similar accreditation preferred.
Starting range $44.49 - 53.17/ hr, depending on qualifications. This is a full-time position, with a complete benefits package.
Applications will continue to be accepted until filled. All applications will be reviewed and the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to one or more interviews and/or other assessments. Applicants will be notified of their standing in the process as soon as a decision has been made regarding their individual application.
Appointment of the final candidate will be contingent upon the results of pre-placement conditions including criminal and motor vehicle record checks, a physical exam, and a drug screening. Costs for these pre-placement requirements will be borne by the Town.
Come join our team and you'll discover a rewarding career alongside a supportive team, all within the embrace of a historically significant community. Join our team now and be able to be on board when we celebrate the birth of democracy next April - 250 years after the shot was heard around the world.
We look forward to hearing from you!
The Town of Concord, MA is an EEO Employer. We value diversity and welcome candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
Department:
Concord Municipal Light Plant (CMLP)
Salary Grade:
12
Reports To:
Director of CMLP
FLSA Status:
Exempt
Appointed By:
Town Manager
Date:
July 2023
GENERAL SUMMARY:
Under the general administrative direction of the Director of CMLP, organizes and supervises the accounting, financial analysis, and other general financial management functions. Responsible for maintaining and improving upon the efficiency and effectiveness of all areas under the direction and control of the position. Performs varied and responsible duties requiring a thorough knowledge of departmental operations and the exercise of judgment and initiative in completing tasks, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures. Is called upon to handle a significant amount of details, each varying from the other in substance and content, requiring flexibility in approach to workload.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the essential job functions (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case-by-case basis.
* Supervises the accounting, financial analysis, general ledger, annual year-end audit and other functions of CMLP. Serves as manager of CMLP's finance division. Develops and implements periodic financial reporting for Director, Board, and Finance Department as necessary.
* Ensures that all financial reporting and activities conform to the requirements of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for purposes of annual audited financial statements and executive budget presentations.
* Prepares and reconciles financial records and reports, including monthly cash and receivables reconciliation with the Town Accountant; oversees the preparation for the year-end audit. Analyzes and reports on performance to budget.
* Responsible for the preparation and production of the Annual CMLP Forecast. Collaborates with Assistant Director of CMLP - Power Supply and Energy Management to calculate bulling rates to collect for the Plant's cost of service. Presents the Annual Forecast to the Light Board.
* Maintains current knowledge of developments in the utility industry through study, review of literature, peer association and seminars.
* Maintains cost accounting and plant assets for accuracy, timing and retirements according to DPU and FERC regulations.
* Responsible for designing and maintaining the security settings in Accounting ERP software. Assigns new users with security permission and adjusts permissions as necessary. Reviews release notes from software company to anticipate impact to CMLP based on software changes.
* Responsible for CMLP's general ledger entries, revenue and cost reports and financial statements. Verifies the accuracy of the monthly electric billing activity; controls and authorizes adjustments.
* Directs activities necessary for proper control of electric rates used in the utility billing system.
* Works closely with the Town Accountant to coordinate and reconcile departmental financial records to the Town Accountant's records on a continuous basis; participates actively in the development of GAAP-based CMLP financial reporting for purposes of the Town's annual financial statements and enterprise budget reports compiled and published annually by the Finance Department.
* Interacts frequently with the Finance Department personnel, external auditors, regulators, vendors and CMLP Board members. Communicates in person, by telephone and via standard report to discuss administrative and financial information.
* Performs special projects and related responsibilities as initiated and requested.
* Performs other related duties as required, directed or as the situation dictates.
* Regular attendance and punctuality at the workplace is required.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
Directly supervises the activities and performance of and provides functional oversight of the Associate Financial Manager/ Accountant, Office Accountant and Accounts Payable Specialist. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Concord's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing and recommending candidates for hire; demonstrating and enforcing equitability and inclusivity; planning, assigning and directing work; addressing complaints and resolving problems; training, evaluating performance and making recommendations to the Director of CMLP concerning employee hiring, rewards or discipline.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
* Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field, plus seven or more years of progressively responsible experience including supervisory experience in accounting, business administration or management in the public utility sector; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
* Massachusetts Certified Governmental Accountant designation by the MMAAA or any other recognized professional accreditation preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
* Complete working knowledge of and skill in using computer applications for accounting and financial management, including understanding of utility billing and general ledger software. Ability to establish and maintain complex financial record keeping systems. Ability to analyze and interpret financial data and to present findings clearly in multiple forums.
* Thorough working knowledge of accounting principles and practices and fund accounting, including knowledge and understanding of GAAP, FERC accounting requirements and DPU regulations and requirements. Ability to design, implement and execute all accounting standards and requirements relevant to a public utility.
* Strong organizational, planning, decision-making, and supervisory skills.
* Ability to work with a high level of detail; ability to prioritize multiple tasks and deal effectively with interruptions; ability to identify and analyze complex issues and to develop appropriate recommendations.
* Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; ability to effectively deal with all members of the public in a courteous and tactful manner; ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with coworkers, other employees, departments, officials and other agencies. Ability to effectively present and explain applicable financial statements in a variety of forums.
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who are or become disabled as defined under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the physical demands (as listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by management on a case-by-case basis.
Normal office environment, not subject to extreme variations of temperature, noise, odors, etc. Majority of work is performed in a moderately noisy work environment, with constant interruptions. Frequently subjected to the demands of other individuals and the volume and /or rapidity with which tasks must be accomplished.
Operates computer, printer, calculator, telephone, copier, and all other standard office equipment requiring eye-hand coordination and finger dexterity. Balancing, crouching, grasping, pulling, reaching and stooping may also be required.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to do this job. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.