City Controller

Posting number: 14268

Department: Finance

Division: City Controller

Job classification: City Controller

Posting type: Open

Categories: Accounting and Finance

Summary

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Norfolk, Virginia is America's most authentic and urban waterfront city. Home to the world's largest naval station and the business, arts, and cultural center of Coastal Virginia, Norfolk has been rated a top place to live, work, play, and raise a family by numerous publications. Working for the City of Norfolk is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others. With our commitment to competitive pay and a strong retirement package, you can do good for your community and do well for yourself. Join a caring workplace that proudly celebrates uniqueness, authenticity, and a shared commitment to improving the lives of our residents.

The Department of Finance provides centralized structure and support for the City of Norfolk’s financial operations, including financial reporting; debt and cash management; payroll; procurement; risk management; financial system administration and support; accounts payable; collections; retirement and parking financial operations. Finance’s Financial Reporting division oversees the City’s annual external audit, prepares the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), and ensures the integrity of the general ledger, while collaborating with every department to provide expert guidance. We foster a culture of hard work, camaraderie, and care for our people — making Finance an excellent place to build a career.

The City Controller oversees the Financial Accounting and Reporting division within the Department of Finance, ensuring adherence to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) as established by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) and compliance with federal, state, and local requirements. The role offers robust resources, training, and support, requires independent work with regular management updates, and expects proactive improvement initiatives with management buy-in and implementation. Overtime may be necessary during peak periods and to meet federal and state deadlines; while we strive to minimize extra hours and build a strong Financial Reporting team, fulfilling essential City obligations remains our top priority. Examples of duties

• Directs all City accounting, auditing, and financial reporting functions, with a focus on accuracy and transparency. 
• Manages Senior Accounting Managers to maintain balanced workloads and optimize team performance. 
• Evaluates division processes to implement efficient workflows and drive continuous improvement. 
• Mentors senior staff through structured training and oversight of independent projects. 
• Establishes division goals aligned with broader City strategic initiatives. 
• Leads coordination of the annual external audit process. 
• Ensures Citywide compliance with GAAP and government accounting standards set by the GASB. 
• Reviews and ensures the accuracy of financial documents and reports. 
• Oversees financial reporting for all federal, state, and local grant awards. 
• Assists in providing Citywide oversight of fiscal processes and the monitoring of internal controls. 
• Develops internal controls, guidelines, and procedures for regulatory activities like cash management and accounting. 
• Offers executive recommendations to enhance financial practices, regulatory compliance, and policy controls. 
• Reviews financial software and system capabilities to maximize efficient use of financial resources. 

QualificationsRequired:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. 
  • Master’s degree preferred. 
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in government or fund accounting. 
• Minimum 5 years of direct supervisory experience managing municipal finance operations. 

Supplemental information

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) preferred.

Work Schedule:

• Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm