Description
Royal Oak, Michigan (pop. 58,211), is a dynamic and vibrant community that offers the amenities of a larger city while maintaining the character and accessibility of a close-knit town. Incorporated in 1921, the City spans 12 square miles and is known for strong neighborhoods, award-winning schools, and a thriving business, cultural, and entertainment environment.
Royal Oak operates under the council-manager form of government and employs approximately 360 full-time and 150–200 part-time employees represented by nine labor units. Royal Oak’s total all-fund budget is over $285 million. The City maintains a stable financial position, including well-funded pension and OPEB obligations.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join one of Michigan's premier communities and help shape its financial future. The Finance Director reports directly to the City Manager and serves as the City's chief financial advisor and a key member of the executive leadership team. The position provides leadership for the Finance, Treasury, and Assessing functions and is responsible for budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, purchasing, debt management, pension administration, capital planning, financial forecasting, and strategic financial analysis.
Royal Oak is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and forward-thinking finance executive who combines exceptional technical expertise with strong leadership. The ideal candidate will bring municipal finance expertise, sound judgment, and a proven ability to lead complex financial operations while ensuring transparency, accountability, and long-term fiscal sustainability. The City seeks a collaborative leader who communicates effectively, develops strong working relationships, and provides thoughtful financial guidance to support informed decision-making throughout the organization.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or closely related field
- Seven (7) years of progressively responsible municipal finance experience.
- Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Preferred Qualifications:
- A Master's degree and/or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
The salary range is $137,387 to $168,299, depending on qualifications and experience (DOQE), with an excellent executive benefits package.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue throughout the recruitment process. Highly qualified candidates may be invited to interview before the application deadline. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by August 10, 2026.
To learn more about the role view our Finance Director Brochure
For questions, contact Jaymes Vettraino, jobs@vettrainoconsulting.com.
The City of Royal Oak is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
