Assistant Director of Finance

Assistant Director of Finance

City of Salem, VA

The City seeks a detail-oriented, personable and caring, and organized leader who will be actively involved in the City's day-to-day financial operations while also guiding the strategic direction of the finance department. This role requires a professional with strong accounting skills, who will provide leadership and mentorship to the finance team, and who is dedicated to working with a close-knit and supportive staff. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting in planning, organizing, and directing the financial activities of the City, managing the annual budget process, managing the annual audit process and preparation of the annual comprehensive financial report, preparing and maintaining financial records and reports, and related work as apparent or assigned.

The following education and experience factors are the desired qualifications for successful performance:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business or public administration, or a related field with experience in accounting, budgeting, debt issuance, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in the public sector accounting field, with 3-5 years minimum experience in a management or supervisory role;
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO), or Master's degree in a related field required;
• A demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development through participation in organizations such as VLGMA, GFOA and VGFOA;
• Any combination of education and experience that qualifies an applicant may be considered in lieu of the more specific criteria listed above.

To be considered, qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter and resume, with salary expectations and professional references, to Karen Edmonds with the Berkley Group, via email at karen.edmonds@bgllc.net. While this position is open until filled, a formal review of applications will begin on April 27, 2026. However, please note that highly qualified candidates may be invited to interview at any time. Timely submittal will ensure the most advantageous review.