Ideal Block

Block Island Utility District Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

About Block Island Utility District

Block Island Utility District (BIUD), doing business as Block Island Power Company, is a customer‑owned, nonprofit electric utility district serving approximately 2,000 customers on Block Island, Rhode Island. With 8 full‑time employees, BIUD has revenues of approximately $6.0 million and total operating plant of $14.5 million.

Established in 2019 after acquiring the former investor‑owned utility, BIUD is governed by a 5‑member Board of Utility Commissioners and is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric service to the island's residents and businesses.

The utility operates one of the nation's smallest standalone electric systems and has transitioned from relying primarily on diesel generation to receiving its electricity through an undersea transmission cable connected to the mainland electric grid, with diesel generators maintained for backup power. BIUD manages its own power supply portfolio and is one of few utilities in the nation that can boast a 100% renewable portfolio. BIUD is committed to enhancing system reliability, modernizing its infrastructure, expanding clean‑energy initiatives, and serving the long‑term interests of the Block Island community through local ownership and stewardship.

Essential Job Functions

The CFO is a key member of the Executive Leadership Team and plays a critical role in the financial success of BIUD. As a newly created position for the utility district, the CFO provides strategic financial leadership, oversees all financial operations, and ensures the financial health and stability of the Cooperative.

This position manages the Cooperative’s financial performance, including revenue and expense management, capital budgeting and debt management. Financial operations include accounting, finance, budgeting, forecasting, risk management, cash management and audits.

Duties include maintaining financial records, accounting services, budgeting, short/long‑term financial planning, equity management, regulatory reporting, risk management, inventory control and forecasting, plus providing financial reports/analysis to the CEO, the Board and other stakeholders.

As part of a small team, willingness to contribute and pitch in as needed is a must.

Desired Attributes & Competencies

• Stellar Interpersonal Communication Skills
• Collaborative
• Ability and want to develop employees
• Respect and Appreciation
• Integrity and Courage
• Electric Utility Infrastructure Knowledge
• Accountability and Dependability
• Critical Thinking and Decision Making
• Takes initiative
• Flexibility
• Member Focus

Experience & Expertise

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience and education is required. An advanced degree and/or CPA are preferred.
• Thorough familiarity with financial management, GAAP Accounting, strategic planning, cash management, budgeting and/or RUS accounting are preferred.
• At least five years of experience in a leadership position is required.
• At least 5 years of experience with an electric utility is preferred.

Our Location

Located 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island, Block Island offers an exceptional quality of life in one of New England's most distinctive coastal communities. Home to approximately 1,650 year‑round residents, the island combines breathtaking natural beauty with a strong sense of community and purpose. This full‑time, year‑round leadership opportunity is ideal for a candidate who values a close‑knotted environment, enjoys the unique rewards of island living, and is excited to become an active member of the community while helping ensure the long‑term financial strength of the electric utility that powers the island's homes, businesses and essential services.

Our Benefits

BIUD offers a generous benefit package including medical, dental, vision, LTD, STD, life insurance, 401(k), deferred compensation, education reimbursement program and PTO.

Block Island Utility District is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Block Island Utility District prohibits unlawful discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical disability, mental disability, pregnancy, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, military status, veteran status, vaccination status, political belief, or any other characteristic to the extent protected by federal, state, or local laws. All replies are confidential.