CPFO Spotlight: Neal Younghans
CPFO Spotlight: Neal Younghans
Neal Younghans , CPFO, is the debt administrator for the City of Saint Paul, Minnesota
Why did you want to become a CPFO?
My undergraduate degree is in English Literature and my graduate degree is in Public Policy, two paths that helped build strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. After working in government finance for ten years, I wanted to deepen my technical knowledge and strengthen the skills needed for the job. The CPFO program offered the opportunity to formalize that knowledge and grow into a more well-rounded finance professional.
What did you learn going through the process?
Although it was daunting to review and learn material for seven exams, the process really pushed me to expand my knowledge base and technical skills. Pursuing the certification served as a way to learn more about financial management and test myself. The process strengthened my technical skills and gave me a deeper appreciation for the many systems (budgeting, debt management, accounting, treasury, and more) that keep a local government running.
How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession or how do you hope it will make an impact?
Becoming a CPFO has expanded my confidence and my capacity to contribute in my role. While the program didn’t exactly make me an expert in every area, it gave me a stronger understanding of what questions to ask, how to think about issues, and how to collaborate more effectively with colleagues across departments. I feel better equipped to be a thought partner in problem-solving and a more strategic contributor to the organization’s financial decisions.
What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO?
I’d encourage anyone who is contemplating becoming a CPFO to make the leap and enroll in the program. I found the material valuable in the work that I do and I believe that it would make any candidate a more well-rounded professional. Public sector finance is nuanced, complex, and incredibly important. Completing the CPFO not only builds your own skills but it helps us better serve our communities over the long term.