Budget & Accounting Services Manager

MEET MVTA

At Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA), we are more than a transit agency; we are the pulse of connected communities, driven by our guiding principles. We prioritize safety for riders, employees, and communities while delivering transformative transportation services that exceed expectations. We strive for eco-friendly practices, foster inclusivity, and fairness with a focus on innovation, uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, and remain customer-focused, placing riders at the center of all our endeavors.

As the second-largest transit agency in Minnesota, MVTA serves seven cities in Dakota and Scott counties. Our extensive network includes 25 routes, offering local, express, micro-transit, and event services. Join us in shaping the future of transit, fostering community ties, and delivering innovative solutions. Together, we propel MVTA as the most connected transit agency, transforming the way our communities live, work, and play.

POSITION SNAPSHOT

The Budget and Accounting Services Manager will work closely with all MVTA departments and provide a solution-driven, full-service response to all MVTA accounting, budget, and finance needs. This position is responsible for advanced-level work in accounting, budgeting, and other financial functions associated with the financial operations of MVTA. This position oversees many accounting/financial functions, provides guidance and work direction to support staff, and serves as a subject matter expert.

KEY CONTRIBUTIONS

• Monitors budget performance, analyzes variances, and provides insights to support decision-making processes.
• Collaborates with department heads to prepare, review, and finalize annual budgets (and budget amendments), ensuring alignment with strategic objectives. Provides training and guidance to staff on budget management processes and tools.
• Leads budget planning meetings, encouraging collaboration and input from team members to ensure a cohesive approach. Actively seek and promote efficiencies in team workflows, decision-making processes, and resource allocation to maximize productivity.
• Prepares detailed and ad hoc financial reports, forecasts, one-off analysis, and presentations for management and stakeholders, highlighting key trends and areas for improvement.
• Conduct research on financial trends, economic forecasts, and industry benchmarks to inform budget strategies and identify potential risks and opportunities.
• Conduct in-depth research and analysis to support the Director of Finance in financial planning, budget forecasting, and decision-making processes, including providing data-driven insights and recommendations.
• Develops, documents, implements, and supports Finance department policies and procedures. Ensures adherence to regulatory requirements.
• Participates in the development and implementation of accounting practices by evaluating, monitoring, and recommending changes in accounting systems and procedures.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements and implement best practices in budget and accounting management.
• Serves as the financial lead for post-award grant activity, including reimbursement and project budget.
• Co-leads in the MVTA annual audit (CAFR) and single audit. Compiles, analyzes, and reviews financial information used in annual reports to Federal, State, and local government agencies and assists with the preparation of the year-end financial statements (CAFR).
• Manages, mentors, and coaches direct support staff. Participates in goal setting for the Division and with direct reports; seeks process improvements, prioritizes, and delegates effectively. Driven by professional growth.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES & CREDENTIALS

• ​​Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, business management, or related field
• 4+ years’ experience in finance or accounting
• 2+ years supervisory experience

DESIRABLE COMPETENCIES & SKILLS

• Certified Public Accountant
• Experience in governmental or public sector accounting
• Governmental Accounting Auditing and Financial Reporting (GAAFR) certification
• Government Finance Officer Association certification
• Completion of the National Transit Institute NTD reporting training

MVTA offers a collaborative and innovative work environment with a commitment to equity, sustainability, and community service. Even if your skill set doesn’t perfectly align, we value relevant experience, passion for making a positive impact, and a keen willingness to learn!

WORKPLACE ENVIRONMENT

​​Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions which might include but are not limited to remaining stationary for extended periods, occasional movement throughout the department, and occasional transport of objects weighing less than 10 pounds. This position requires the ability to observe and analyze details at close range and communicate to exchange accurate information with others.

EMPLOYEE ADVANTAGES

• Healthcare: Access to medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Life and Disability Coverage: Gain peace of mind with life and disability benefits, ensuring financial security for you and your loved ones.
• Deferred Compensation: Build a foundation for long-term financial security with the flexibility and control provided by our deferred compensation plan.
• Retirement: MN PERA is a government pension program; employer and employee contributions are mandatory.
• Paid Time Off: Achieve work-life balance with paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.
• Investing in Your Growth: We invest in your professional development through a variety of continuous learning opportunities and programs.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

MVTA believes in providing equal employment opportunities. MVTA will not violate any law prohibiting discrimination for or against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, marital status, pregnancy, familiar status, disability (including those related to pregnancy or childbirth), membership or non-membership in a labor organization, sexual orientation, gender identify, status regarding public assistance, genetic information, complaining in good faith to MVTA or public authority, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. Applicants and employees will be evaluated solely based on their conduct, their compliance with MVTA’s policies, practices, and legitimate expectations, and their performance and experience.