Finance Director

The town of Fairfax is seeking a Finance Director responsible for managing the overall financial health, integrity, and transparency of the municipality. This role oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, auditing, payroll, cash management, grants administration, and financial reporting for both the General Fund and enterprise funds, such as water and wastewater services.

The Finance Director acts as the Town’s chief financial officer and must have a solid understanding of Vermont municipal finance practices, along with relevant state and federal requirements, including Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) best practices, or the ability to become familiar with best practices. This position provides direct financial analysis, guidance, and recommendations to the Town Manager and Select board to enable informed decision-making, long‑term financial planning, and responsible management of public funds.

This is a newly established position. As such, the Finance Director will have significant flexibility and opportunity to help shape systems, processes, and internal controls, in collaboration with the Town Manager. The position provides direct supervision of one part‑time Accounts Payable/Payroll Clerk.

• Financial Operations & Accounting
• Oversee day‑to‑day accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, records retention, and grant financial tracking.
• Maintain all Town financial records using NEMRC accounting software, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance with GASB, GAAP, and Vermont municipal standards.
• Manage and oversee the town's accounting activities, covering the General Fund, enterprise funds, reserves, and special revenue funds.
• Ensure regular reconciliation of all accounts and document discrepancies with corrective actions and recommended process improvements.
• Establish, document, and enforce internal controls, financial policies, and procedures to protect Town assets and ensure transparency.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and implement controls to mitigate financial, operational, and compliance risks.
• Support improvements in financial systems, workflows, and reporting accuracy.
• Budget Development & Financial Analysis
• Lead or assist in preparation of the annual Town and utility budgets in coordination with the Town Manager and department heads.
• Monitor revenues and expenditures throughout the fiscal year and prepare regular financial reports for the Select board.
• Conduct forecasting and financial modeling related to operating budgets, capital planning, enterprise funds, debt, and long‑term financial sustainability.
• Identify emerging financial risks or trends and advise Town leadership in a timely manner.
• Audit & External Reporting
• Prepare schedules, documentation, and financial statements for the Town’s annual independent audit.
• Serve as the primary liaison to auditors, NEMRC, and regulatory agencies.
• Address audit findings and implement corrective actions and policy updates as needed.
• Payroll & Benefits Coordination
• Oversee payroll processing and ensure compliance with applicable laws, contracts, and Town policies.
• Coordinate with Human Resources on payroll‑related matters, benefits deductions, and reporting.
• Ensure timely remittance of payroll taxes, retirement contributions, and other required payments.

• Provide high‑quality customer service to staff, residents, and external partners.
• Participate in continuous improvement of Town financial systems and practices.
• Support professional development and cross‑departmental collaboration.
• Attend Select board or committee meetings as needed to present financial information.
• Represent the town in public and professional settings.

• Strong working knowledge of municipal fund accounting and Vermont local government finance.
• Experience with New England Municipal Resource Center financial modules preferred.
• Ability to analyze financial data and communicate findings clearly to non‑financial audiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools.
• High level of accuracy, discretion, and attention to…