CPFO Spotlight: Chuck Maurer

1. Why did you want to become a CPFO? 

I wanted to become a CPFO to broaden the knowledge of different areas of finance and accounting that I have had less exposure to during my career in city finance. I was encouraged as well by fellow GFOA members who earned their CPFO and shared how it helped them grow professionally.

2. What did you learn going through the process? 

Learning about a wide range of finance topics gave me a greater understanding of how different finance areas complement each other in areas such as budget, treasury management and procurement to produce financial reports such as the ACFR. Each of the exams on different areas gave me an opportunity to deepen my knowledge of that area and understand the technical expertise required for each one.

3. How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession?  

Becoming a CPFO has provided me a higher-level understanding of different areas of finance which allows me to provide more relevant input and alternatives to those sections. The exposure to the GFOA’s best practices through this program has given me the confidence to identify areas of possible improvement within the organization and be a better public servant.

4. What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO? 

The journey to becoming a CPFO was incredibly rewarding experience which gives you an amazing opportunity to expand your understanding of different areas of finance and to deepen it within your area(s) of expertise. It will make you a more technically sound professional and a more effective public servant.