Description

POSITION SUMMARY

Under limited direction, this position has the overall responsibility for financial plans, policies, reporting, and accounting practices for Moorhead Public Service (MPS). This position performs administrative and supervisory work in planning, organizing, and directing the activities and procedures of the accounting, billing, and collection departments. This position also provides other administrative support and assistance to the General Manager. 

JOB DUTIES OR ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions of the position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Develops and implements documented administrative practices, procedures, and standards for Moorhead Public Service (MPS), which are designed to accomplish the objectives and to implement the policies established by the General Manager and the Moorhead Public Service Commission (MPSC). 
• Directs the completion of annual personnel, capital, and operating budgets for the utility and prepares financial forecasts and cash flow analyses. Exercises management control to adhere to adopted budgets and recommends budget adjustments when required.
• Evaluates financial policies and procedures to ensure they conform to long-range objectives and utility standards. Directs the preparation of financial and investment reports and records. Directs the investment of available cash reserves.
• Reviews the current conditions and long-range strategic position of MPS’ business operation and assists in the development, update, and presentation of a long-range strategic plan and the short-range strategic modifications to that plan.
• Designs and directs the implementation, operation, and supervision of the accounting system. Maintains, or causes to be maintained, adequate records of assets, liabilities, and transactions. Causes adequate internal audits to be made. Advises and guides the accounting staff in the administration of established accounting programs and procedures according to generally-accepted accounting principles. Functions as the utility’s cost accountant, auditor, and financial advisor.
• Compares performance with operating plans and standards, and reports and interprets the results of operations to all levels of management. Formulates accounting policy, oversees department cost control, coordinates systems and procedures, and directs operating data and special reports, as required.
• Works closely with division managers to establish rates that conform to the long-range objectives of the MPSC.
• Prepares reports and attends all MPSC meetings and reports on Administration and Finance Division activities.
• Compiles, analyzes, and interprets significant data to enable management to make intelligent decisions and take responsible action.
• Reviews the adequacy of the organizational structure and staffing of the Finance Division to effectively discharge Finance Division responsibilities essential to fulfillment of the total utility business purpose. Recommends changes, where needed, to improve performance of existing functional areas and/or to accomplish additional functions.
• Serves as Acting General Manager or the General Manager’s designated representative, when required, with such authority and responsibility as may be assigned, to a broad spectrum of external organizations, including City of Moorhead departments, consultants, banks, investment advisors, investment brokers, bond rating agency representatives, utility general counsel, consumers, and public interest groups, as directed.
• Directs the preparation of reports to government agencies.
• Performs other duties as requested.

 COMPETENCIES

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be competent in the following areas:

• Kindness and Understanding. Must be able to exhibit kindness and understanding and be fair-minded and reasonable. Must be approachable and exhibit good judgment when handling personal issues. Must be confidential and protect the privacy of all employees. 
• Analytical. Synthesizes complex or diverse information.  Collects and researches data. Uses intuition and experience to complement data. Designs work flows and procedures.
• Problem Solving. Must be able to handle problems on the job on a regular basis. Conflict between employees and misunderstanding of benefits and policies will occasionally occur. No matter what problems or issues may come up, the individual must be able to resolve the problem or issue.
• Leadership. Inspires and motivates others to perform well. Inspires respect and trust. Accepts feedback from others. Provides vision and inspiration to peers and subordinates. Gives appropriate recognition to others. Displays passion and optimism. Mobilizes others to fulfill the vision.
• Manage People. Includes others in planning, decision-making, facilitating, and process improvement. Takes responsibility of subordinate activities. Makes self available to others. Provides regular performance feedback.  Develops subordinates’ skills and encourages growth. Fosters quality focus in others. Improves processes, products, and services.
• Strategic Thinking. Develops strategies to achieve organizational goals. Understands MPS’ strengths and weaknesses. Identifies external threats and opportunities. Adapts strategy to changing conditions.
• Results. Able to articulate and drive the need for timely, high-quality results. Motivates by personal example of hard work and is dedicated to results. Internally driven to achieve high personal standards. Institutes systems to monitor progress and assures sustainable results. Anticipates, diagnoses, and works through roadblocks. Continually seeks to improve work results and methods.

Closing Date: May 28, 2026

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the formal education, experience, and training required.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field.

Experience

• Eight (8) years of accounting, finance, business, or related experience.

Trainings, Certificates, Licenses, and Other Requirements

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
• Leadership qualities consistent with MPS’ Culture Values – be engaged, be respectful, be positive, be a team player, and be appreciative of others.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the formal education, experience, and training preferred in order to exceptionally perform all of the functions of this position.

Education

• Advanced degree, equaling a Master’s degree, in business administration, finance, or a related field.