Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer

Columbia Power & Water Systems seeks an individual for a full-time, exempt position to contribute to the success of CPWS by assuring its financial health and the fulfillment of its purpose, mission, vision, and values. The Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer is responsible for the management of the administrative areas of CPWS and has the authority to carry out these responsibilities in accordance with the directives provided by the President/CEO and policies established by the City of Columbia Board of Public Utilities.

Supervisory responsibilities include the following: responsible for the oversight of all fiscal activities of the organization including budgeting, forecasts, planning, reporting, audits, as well as, assuring financial strategies are cost effective and revenues are maintained; ensure the integration, compatibility, and alignment of system-wide technologies with organizational goals and strategic initiatives; collaborate with appropriate stakeholders to develop and execute strategic plans; manage projects and project teams as needed; assure organizational quality and stability through development and implementation of controls, procedures, and continuous improvement initiatives; assure processes for selecting, training, developing, motivating, evaluating, and supporting quality employees; evaluate performance of Vice Presidents for compliance with established policies and objectives of the company and contributions in attaining objectives; responsible for compliance with CPWS policies, procedures, and regulations; responsible for the supervision of administrative departments and providing general oversight of all CPWS administrative activities to assure a smooth, functioning, and efficient organization; and assure the filing of all legal and regulatory documents and monitor compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Duties and responsibilities include the following: oversee the general administration management of the systems, including development, implementation, and maintenance of policies for areas of supervision; serve as the record custodian for CPWS, which includes maintaining CPWS records, contracts, and a records retention schedule for all documents; provide direction and oversight of bond issuances and other financing arrangements; provide direction and assistance in utility rate setting and contract negotiations; develop and maintain the trust of the community and evaluate CPWS’ value and effectiveness to the community; collaborate with the President/CEO to formulate overall corporate strategies and objectives that support CPWS’ purpose, mission, vision, and values; responsible for keeping the President/CEO fully informed on the administrative health of the organization and on all the important factors influencing it; act as an advocate for issues relevant to CPWS and its services within the public and private sectors and industry associations; serve as a spokesperson for CPWS, assuring proper representation of CPWS to the community; initiate, develop, and maintain cooperative relationships with key constituencies; work with local officials and regulatory agencies to promote legislative and regulatory policies that encourage a vibrant community and supports CPWS in providing quality services to its customers; and other duties as assigned.

Required skills/abilities include the following: acknowledge and adhere to all CPWS policies; regular attendance at work; perform duties safely without endangering self, others, and the public; ability to promote a positive atmosphere; ability to read and understand accounting guidelines and literature; ability to write; ability to give instructions; ability to listen attentively and respond to customer(s) or coworker(s) questions and concerns; ability to analyze and solve problems using facts and personal judgment; ability to work on different projects and adjust to changing situations; ability to deal with people in a courteous manner; ability to make good decisions and accomplish duties without close supervision; working knowledge of Governmental Accounting Standards Board and Government Finance Officers Association standards and best practices; working knowledge of computer hardware and software, including extensive knowledge of Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; ability to understand fundamental principles of governmental accounting and finance; ability to develop a good understanding of public utility accounting and administrative best practices and procedures; ability to develop a good overall operating knowledge of the CPWS’ utility functions; and the ability to work inside.

Physical requirements include the following: ability to occasionally lift 0 – 30 pounds; ability to lift and/or carry objects weighing 0 – 25 pounds for 2 hours a day; ability to sit at a desk for 2 hours at a time; ability to stoop, kneel, and crouch; and the ability to talk, see, hear, reach, handle, and feel.

Education, experience, and qualifications include the following: Bachelor’s degree in Business required; valid State of Tennessee driver’s license required; Certified Public Accountant in the State of Tennessee required; 10 years of experience in a Senior Leadership position with knowledge of and experience in management and administration of a public utility required, experience in a multi-service, municipal utility is preferred; excellent written and verbal communication and networking skills required.

To apply for the position, interested applicants must submit an application. Applications can be submitted by visiting our website at https://cpws.com/employment Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications will be discussed only at interview. Excellent benefit package. Drug-Free Workplace. Drug testing is a condition of employment with CPWS.

EOE.