Brian McKenzie

Brian McKenzie, the City of Marion’s first deputy finance director, played a central role in restructuring Marion’s capital improvement program by building a new prioritization process and a document that outlined project timelines, objectives, and costs—bringing clarity to departments and the public alike. Finance Director Lianne Cairy stated, “Brian has demonstrated that sound financial management is not merely about numbers—it’s about building trust with our community and ensuring that our public resources are managed with integrity and transparency.” Brian also worked across departments to modernize the city’s asset replacement schedule, creating a funding model that strengthened Marion’s five-year forecast and budgeting process. He mentors others by modeling accountability and inclusivity—earning the trust and respect of colleagues across the organization. 

Nominated by Lianne Cairy, finance director, City of Marion, Iowa