Port Pascagoula is seeking a highly skilled Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with expertise in government accounting and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification. The CFO will oversee the financial operations of the Port, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and sound financial management. This role will lead a team of three finance professionals, including the Financial Analyst I, Financial Analyst II, and Purchasing Agent, and report directly to the Port Director.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Strategy & Leadership:

• Develop and implement financial strategies to support the Port’s operational and capital initiatives.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to senior leadership to support decision-making.

Accounting & Compliance:

• Oversee all accounting functions, ensuring compliance with GAAP, GASB, and other applicable government accounting standards.
• Prepare and review financial statements, budgets, and reports for accuracy and compliance.
• Ensure timely completion of annual audits and compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations.

Budgeting, Financial Planning, and Analysis:

• Oversee the development and execution of the annual budget and long-term financial plans.
• Analyze financial performance, identifying variances and providing strategic insights to leadership.
• Direct cash flow management, revenue forecasting, and cost control initiatives.

Risk Management & Capital Funding Advisory:

• Advise on capital structure, funding strategies, and investment opportunities.
• Provide financial guidance on mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic initiatives.

Grants & Funding Management:

• Oversee the management of federal, state, and local grants, ensuring proper tracking, reporting, and compliance.
• Identify funding opportunities and assist with grant applications to support infrastructure and operational projects.

Procurement & Contracts:

• Oversee the purchasing process and ensure compliance with public procurement laws.
• Manage financial aspects of contracts and agreements, ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Team Leadership & Development:

• Directly supervise the Finance Analyst I, Financial Analyst II, and Purchasing Agent.
• Foster a culture of accountability, efficiency, and continuous improvement within the finance department.

Education & Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) preferred.
• Master’s degree or Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a plus.

Experience:

• Minimum 7-10 years of experience in government accounting, public finance, or related field.
• Experience in port operations, maritime, or transportation finance is preferred but not required.
• Strong knowledge of grant management, governmental budgeting, and financial reporting.

Skills & Competencies:

• Expertise in GASB, GAAP, and public sector financial regulations.
• Proficiency in financial software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to stakeholders.

About Port Pascagoula

Port Pascagoula, ranking in the top 25 in the nation, is a dynamic and bustling maritime gateway crucial in facilitating trade, supporting economic growth, and fostering innovation in the region. As the largest full-service deepwater port in Mississippi, we are committed to providing exceptional service to our partners, stakeholders, and communities. Our state-of-the-art facilities, strategic location, and dedication to environmental responsibility make us a vital hub for a wide range of industries, from shipping and logistics to energy and manufacturing.

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