Fiscal Services Director

About MAG

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) is a group of local governments working together on issues that touch the lives of every resident. We are a regional planning agency that develops solutions in areas such as transportation, air quality, economic development, and programs that meet the human needs of the region.

The Position:

Serves as a strategic leader within the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and Council of Governments (COG), overseeing all aspects of financial management.  Accountable for managing a wide range of functional areas including procurement, pre- and post-award grant and contract administration, financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting, cash and investment management, taxes, payroll, fixed assets, accounts receivable, and accounts payable.  Plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization's fiscal strategy, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and contributing to the overall success of the regional planning initiatives. Responsible for developing the Biennial Unified Planning Work Program and Budget (UPWP) in accordance with federal regulations while ensuring public involvement, coordination with stakeholders, and adherence to MPO planning processes.  Responsible for compiling the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) in accordance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements to provide stakeholders with a comprehensive and accurate overview of the entity’s financial performance and position. Responsible for compiling the organization’s form 990 tax returns, annually. 

Reporting Structure:

1.      This position reports directly to the executive director.

2.      Seven (7) direct reports.

There are eight main areas of responsibility as noted below.

Main areas of responsibility:

1.      Team leadership: Lead and mentor the Fiscal Services team, fostering a culture of accountability, professional development, and continuous improvement.

2.      Procurement, Contracting, and Pre-award Grant Administration:

a.      Oversee the end-to-end procurement process including solicitation, evaluation, negotiation, and award.

b.      Ensure compliance with all federal and state regulations including FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulations), A.R.S. (Arizona Revised Statutes), and the Brooks Act.

c.      Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including project managers, legal, and the Executive Team, to support procurement activities.

d.      Monitor contract performance and compliance throughout the procurement lifecycle.

3.      Inventory and Fixed Assets Management: Maintain physical inventory and fixed assets in accordance with federal and state guidelines. 

4.      Post-Award Grant Administration:

a.      Oversee and ensure strict adherence to grant guidelines, federal and state regulations, invoicing/reporting/closeout requirements (~$34M in annual revenue).

b.      Provide training and support to internal teams on grants management best practices.

c.      Identify and mitigate potential risks associated with grant activities, working proactively to address challenges and ensure successful grant outcomes.

5.      Financial Reporting, Compliance, & Risk Mitigation:

a.      Participate in ongoing development/establishment of accounting, procurement, contracting, and employment policies and procedures.

b.      Prepare and present accurate and timely annual financial statements (Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports) in accordance with Governmental Accounting Standard Boad (GASB) and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).  Implementing new GASB standards as required.

c.      Compile annual Schedule of Expenditures for Federal Awards (SEFA) and represent the organization in the annual Federal Single Audit process.

d.      Compile Annual Services Report for Civic and Social Organizations for submission to the U.S. Census Bureau.

e.      Compile the annual indirect cost allocation plan for submission to the Federal Cognizant Agency for audit and approval.

f.       Compile and file annual IRS Form 990 tax returns for three non-profit entities.

g.      Oversee the annual compilation and issuance of form 1099-NEC (non-employee compensation) forms to accounts payable vendors and associates in accordance with the I.R.S. guidelines and imposed deadlines.

6.      Budgeting/Planning and Cash & Investment Management

a.      Develop and administer the Biennial Unified Planning Work Program and Budget (~$34M in annual revenue).

b.      Monitor and manage daily cash positions and ensure compliance with financial policies, state and federal regulations, and accounting standards related to cash management and investments.

c.      Oversee and approve monthly bank account reconciliations for six cash accounts and two investment accounts.

7.      Payroll Administration:

a.      Oversee and approve end-to-end bi-weekly payroll administration and calculation process (for 120 employees), including time records, calculating wages, calculating taxes, ensuring accurate deductions, and recording accurate payroll transactions.

b.      Ensure compliance with relevant tax laws and labor regulations to ensure accurate payroll tax filings and adherence to legal standards.

c.      Compile and file employer’s quarterly federal tax return 941 forms with the IRS.

d.      Oversee the annual compilation and issuance of form W-2 (wage and tax statement) to employees in accordance with the I.R.S. guidelines and imposed deadlines.

8.      ERP System Implementation and Upgrades:

a.      Lead the successful planning and implementation of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.

b.      Develop and execute a comprehensive project plan for the ERP implementation, considering timelines, resources, and milestones.

c.      Collaborate with vendors and internal teams to configure the ERP system to meet organizational requirements.

d.      Oversee the migration of data from existing systems to the new ERP platform, ensuring accuracy and integrity.

e.      Develop and deliver training programs for end-users to ensure a smooth transition to the new ERP system, addressing user concerns and providing ongoing support.

f.       Implement change management strategies to facilitate a smooth transition, including communication plans, stakeholder engagement, and addressing resistance.

g.      Coordinate and conduct thorough user-acceptance-testing of the ERP system to identify and resolve any issues, ensuring the system meets functional and performance requirements.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Knowledge Required: Candidates should demonstrate a strong background in financial management, budgeting, and governmental fund accounting. Knowledge of state and federal regulations surrounding procurement, contracting, grant administration, payroll, tax filings, and fiscal planning. Understanding of unique challenges and priorities of metropolitan planning and regional cooperation in the context of financial leadership. Knowledge of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Knowledge of applicable federal Codes of Regulation (2 CFR 200 et seq.; 2 CFR 1200 et seq.). Knowledge of requirements surrounding the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program.

Skills Required: Strong expertise in financial planning, analysis, and reporting. Understanding of governmental fund accounting, budgeting, and compliance with government regulations. Effective leadership skills to guide financial strategies and collaboration with other divisions. Clear communication and presentation skills for conveying complex financial information to diverse stakeholders. Capability to align financial goals with the organization's strategic objectives. Extensive experience utilizing and configuring financial management and human resources/payroll/time and attendance systems. Strong understanding of employee labor laws in the context of payroll administration. Strong experience managing, developing, mentoring, and evaluating fiscal, procurement, and contracting staff. Proficient in MS Excel and MS Access. Experience with MS SQL Server Management Studio desired. Experience with ERP and HRIS systems.

Abilities Required: Ability to assess and manage financial risks. Maintain effective leadership abilities to oversee financial operations and guide strategic financial decisions. The capacity to collaborate with various government agencies, external partners, auditors, and grantors. Strong analytical capabilities for assessing financial data and making informed decisions. Ability to effectively manage and develop a diverse group of employees.

Education and Experience: A bachelor's degree in accounting or related field. A master’s degree preferred. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), preferred. Five or more years (5+) of proven experience as a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or in a senior financial leadership role, preferably within a governmental or non-profit organization. Seven years or more (7+) of proven experience, preferred.