Finance Manager

DIVISION OF PUBLIC WORKS

POSITION DESCRIPTION: FINANCE MANAGER

Department: Division of Public Works

Position Title: Finance Manager

Reports To: Executive Director and Deputy Director of Public Works

Supervisory Responsibility: Public Works Account Technicians

Classification: Management / Administrative

POSITION SUMMARY

The Finance Manager oversees and directs the financial administration, procurement, payment processing, and budget management functions of the City of Gary Division of Public Works. This position ensures fiscal accountability, efficient financial operations, and compliance with applicable municipal policies and procedures.

The Finance Manager provides financial leadership and administrative support across all Public Works departments, including General Services, Parks, Buildings & Grounds, Fleet Maintenance, Recycling, Marquette Pavilion, Hudson Campbell and other operational units.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Procurement and Payment Administration

• Oversee and coordinate procurement activities, purchasing requests, purchase orders, and vendor payments across the Division.

• Ensure timely processing of invoices, requisitions, and financial transactions.

• Monitor outstanding purchase orders, expenditures, and vendor obligations.

• Ensure compliance with City purchasing policies, financial controls, and applicable regulations.

• Coordinate with the City Controller's Office and other departments to resolve procurement and payment issues.

• Budget Preparation and Administration

• Lead the development, preparation, and presentation of the Division's annual operating and capital budgets.

• Coordinate budget requests and financial planning with division managers and department leadership.

• Monitor appropriations, expenditures, available balances, and projected funding needs.

• Prepare budget amendments, transfers, financial reports, and supporting documentation.

• Assist leadership with budget presentations to the Mayor's Office, City Council, and other governing bodies.

• Support year-end financial closeout and purchase order rollover processes.

3. Financial Oversight and Reporting

• Maintain accurate financial records and expenditure tracking systems.
• Prepare periodic financial reports, budget analyses, and expenditure forecasts.
• Identify potential budget shortfalls, financial risks, and opportunities for cost savings.
• Monitor grant-funded activities and restricted appropriations in coordination with applicable departments.
• Provide financial information and recommendations to support operational and strategic decisions

4. Staff Supervision and Administrative Leadership

• Direct, supervise, and evaluate Public Works Account Technicians.
• Assign responsibilities, establish workflow priorities, and monitor staff performance.
• Ensure accuracy, accountability, and timely completion of financial transactions.
• Develop and implement standardized financial procedures and internal controls.
• Provide financial guidance and technical support to division managers and administrative personnel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Three to five years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, budgeting, accounting, or procurement; supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience in municipal government or public-sector financial administration strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of governmental budgeting, procurement procedures, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, financial management software, and administrative reporting systems.
• Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

KEY PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

• Timely and accurate procurement and payment processing.
• Effective budget preparation, monitoring, and fiscal reporting.
• Compliance with financial policies and procurement requirements.
• Strong supervision and accountability of financial support staff.
• Proactive communication of financial concerns and funding needs.

The Finance Manager plays a critical leadership role in ensuring the Division of Public Works operates with fiscal responsibility, transparency, efficiency, and accountability while supporting the delivery of essential municipal services.