Finance Director

Vernon Hills, IL (population 26,850) is a vibrant, family focused community located 37 miles north of Chicago in Lake County, known for its attractive shopping options, strong services and political stability. The Village is seeking forward- thinking, collaborative candidates to serve as their next Finance Director. Vernon Hills is known as a lean, resourceful organization consisting of Police, 9-1-1 Dispatch, Public Works, and Community Development services. With a great deal of pride, Vernon Hills retains its status as one of the few communities in Illinois without a local property tax, which necessitates a focus on cost containment measures, innovation and strong development efforts. The Village takes great pride in their exceptional level of services to residents, particularly senior citizens, and promotes a host of activities to bolster a strong sense of community, safety, and prosperity.

The Village is a ‘AAA’ rated, home rule organization governed by a Village President and six Trustees. A professional Village Manager oversees a staff of 98 full-time employees and 7 part-time employees (101.5 FTEs). The FY 2022/2023 budget is $45.3 million (including capital and debt expenses), with a General Fund budget of $35.4 million and strong reserve levels. The Village maintains three financially self-sufficient TIF Districts and a golf course. Water and sewer utility services are provided by Lake County.

Position Requirements

The duties of the Finance Director position have been performed by an external vendor since 2018. Going forward the position will be filled by a full-time staff member of the Village. Appointed by the Village President and reporting to the Village Manager, the Finance Director oversees the financial operations of the Village. This includes cash management, investments, financial reporting, financial planning, and the development of the Village budget. The Director currently has two direct reports within the Finance Department, an Assistant Director and a Staff Accountant (both currently performed by employees of a third-party vendor). The next Director must oversee some transition in the organizational structure of the Department, improve use of technology in finance operations, and sustain the Department’s reputation for high integrity and excellent customer service within the Department and with other Village departments.

The Village is seeking an experienced, organized and progressive Director to lead the Finance Department. The successful candidate will have the following:

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, public policy, business, or related field.
• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in public or private finance or accounting, with three (3) years of management/supervisory responsibility, preferably in local government.
• Master’s Degree, CPFO or CPA designation, or knowledge, skills and abilities equivalent to is strongly preferred.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, strategic planning abilities, and a demonstrated proficiency and enthusiasm for working closely with elected and appointed officials.
• Technically proficient in accounting and commonly used applications of financial services information technology.

Compensation and Benefits

The anticipated starting salary is $150,000 - $175,000 based on qualifications and experience. Residency is not required. The Village offers exceptional benefits, including membership into the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), a vehicle allowance, optional 457 deferred compensation plans, and a menu of health plans.

Application Process

Apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with a resume, cover letter and contact information for five professional references by October 21, 2022. Confidential inquiries may be directed to Maureen Barry, Senior Vice President, GovHR USA at 224-380-3240, x116.

The Village of Vernon Hills is an Equal Opportunity Employer.