The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) serves as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for the strategic oversight and operational execution of all financial functions for the Seaport Authority. This role ensures fiscal integrity, regulatory compliance, and long-term financial sustainability while supporting the authority’s mission to facilitate maritime commerce, infrastructure development, and economic growth.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Financial Leadership
Develop and implement long-range financial strategies aligned with port development, capital planning, and operational goals
Advise the CEO and Board on financial policy, investment priorities, and risk management
Budgeting & Forecasting
Lead the annual budgeting process, multi-year financial planning, and scenario modeling
Monitor revenue streams (e.g., lease income, tariffs, grants) and expenditure trends to optimize financial performance
Accounting & Compliance
Oversee accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls in accordance with GAAP and governmental standards
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including grant management and bond covenants
Capital Projects & Asset Management
Partner with engineering and operations teams to finance and track infrastructure investments, dredging projects, and terminal upgrades
Manage fixed asset lifecycle, depreciation schedules, and capital reserve planning
Treasury & Financing
Direct cash flow management, debt issuance, and banking relationships
Evaluate financing options for capital expansion, including public-private partnerships, revenue bonds, and federal programs
Business Administration
Prepare monthly agenda
Maintain policies and procedures
Input tariff changes and initiate annual general rate increase discussions
Coordinate with the Port’s risk management consultant and acts are liaison for all insurance matters
Liaison with Port legal counsel
Stakeholder Engagement & Reporting
Prepare and present financial reports to the Board, auditors, rating agencies, and public stakeholders
Support transparency and accountability through clear communication of financial health and strategic priorities
Team Leadership
Lead and develop finance, procurement, and grant administration teams
Foster a culture of integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field (CPA required)
10+ years of progressive financial leadership, ideally in government sector.
Deep understanding of governmental accounting, capital finance, and regulatory frameworks
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and communicate complex financial concepts to diverse audiences.
SeaPort Manatee is the closest U.S. deepwater seaport to the Panama Canal, serving bulk, breakbulk, container, heavy lift, project and general cargo customers. The port generates more than $5.1 billion in annual economic impact for the local community, while supporting more than 37,000 direct and indirect jobs, without the benefit of ad-valorem taxes.