Chief Financial Officer

OverviewThe Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) provides essential public transportation services to the Chattanooga metropolitan area. We are seeking a dynamic financial leader to join our executive team during a period of transformative change.Position: Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – oversees all financial operations and information technology functions. The role requires a strategic thinker who can balance fiscal responsibility with the agency’s public service mission, including financial planning, risk management, record-keeping, financial reporting, and strategic planning.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Leadership, Strategy and PlanningDirect all financial activities including accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, treasury, and audit functions.Lead long-term financial leadership to enhance operating and financial performance, mitigate risks, and optimize costs and ROI aligned with CARTA's strategies.Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with CARTA’s strategic objectives.Provide financial leadership during organizational change initiatives.Present financial reports to the Board of Directors and other stakeholders.Provide strategic recommendations to the CEO and executive leadership team.Prepare annual operating budget.Serve on the pension committee and assist in decisions regarding the pension plan.Accounting & ComplianceEnsure compliance with GAAP, GASB, and all relevant federal, state, and local regulations;Oversee grant accounting and reporting for federal, state, and local funding sources;Maintain internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure fiscal responsibility, including revenue, expenses, and procurement;Payroll oversight; budget preparation;Manage and lead all audit processes and implement recommendations;Maintain cash accounts, financial systems, and bank relationships;Maintain compliance with labor laws, tax regulations, and reporting requirements;Oversee preparation and communication of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements;Direct IT strategic planning, operations, and infrastructure maintenance;Ensure IT systems support regulatory requirements and drive cybersecurity initiatives and data protection measures;Drive technology improvements to enhance operational efficiency.Leadership & Team ManagementLead, develop and mentor finance and IT staff;Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement;Collaborate with other departments to support agency-wide goals;Advocate for public service values throughout financial operations.Other duties may be assigned in keeping with CARTA’s goals and objectives.QualificationsRequired:CPA certification;Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field;Minimum of six years of progressive financial management experience, with at least three years in senior leadership roles;Demonstrated experience with governmental accounting and compliance requirements;Strong knowledge of financial systems and IT management;Excellence in budgeting, revenue forecasting, financial modeling, financial analysis, and scenario planning;Strategic management in forecasting, cost analysis, and financial risk mitigation;Managerial finance and decision support to evaluate financial trade-offs and investment feasibility;Proven leadership during periods of organizational change;Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills;Commitment to public service and fiscal stewardship;Proficient in Microsoft applications and financial management software (e.g., Oracle).Preferred:Experience in public transportation or related government agency;Familiarity with transit funding mechanisms and FTA regulations;Fuel hedging to mitigate financial risk due to price fluctuations;MBA or other advanced degree in a relevant field.Work Location & CompensationLocation: On-site at CARTA headquarters in Chattanooga, TNSalary Range: $125,000–$175,000How to ApplyQualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to . Please include “CFO Application” in the subject line.CARTA is an equal opportunity employer. We embrace diversity and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all employees.CARTA values excellence in public service and seeks candidates who share our commitment to serving the transportation needs of our community with integrity and fiscal responsibility. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17