N※N

Steele County begins search for new finance director

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. unty-begins-search-for-new-finance-director.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 5:39 GMT by Southern Minn
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

275x183/6886 Bytes

224x224/7574 Bytes

310x163/10840 Bytes

Steele County Launches Search for New Finance Director

Steele County, Minnesota, has begun an extensive search to fill a vacancy in the position of Finance Director, following the departure of the former director who had overseen the county’s financial operations for several years. The announcement, published in the Owatonna People’s Press, details the county’s criteria for the role, the responsibilities the new hire will assume, and how the community can expect the position to shape local fiscal policy in the coming years.

A Key Leadership Role in County Finance

The county’s Finance Director is responsible for the overall financial stewardship of Steele County’s budget, tax collection, payroll, and fiscal reporting. The role requires a seasoned professional who can navigate the complexities of local government finance while ensuring transparency and accountability to county residents. The position will oversee the preparation of the annual operating budget, the management of county investments, and the coordination of financial audits. In addition, the Finance Director will work closely with the County Administrator, the Board of Supervisors, and other department heads to develop financial strategies that support the county’s priorities in public safety, infrastructure, and community services.

Qualifications and Responsibilities

The job posting, which can be accessed through the county’s official human resources page at [ Steele County Careers ], lists the following requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, public administration, or a related field, with a master’s degree preferred.
• A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation or equivalent professional certification.
• Minimum of seven years of progressive experience in government finance, with at least three years in a senior management role.
• In-depth knowledge of Minnesota state tax law, local government budgeting, and financial reporting standards.
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

The Finance Director will be expected to:

• Prepare and present the annual operating budget to the County Board of Supervisors.
• Monitor all county revenues and expenditures, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Oversee the collection of property taxes, sales taxes, and other county revenue streams.
• Manage the county’s payroll system and related financial obligations.
• Coordinate with external auditors and prepare for state audits.
• Provide financial reports and analysis to support policy decisions and strategic planning.

The Search Process

Steele County’s personnel office has issued a formal job advertisement and is inviting applications through its online portal. The deadline for submission of resumes and cover letters is July 15, 2024. Candidates are encouraged to submit a detailed résumé, a cover letter outlining their relevant experience, and references. Shortlisted applicants will undergo a preliminary interview conducted by the hiring committee, which includes the County Administrator and several board members. The committee will then recommend candidates for a final interview with the entire Board of Supervisors.

The county’s search process is designed to ensure a transparent and fair selection of a candidate who can lead with integrity and expertise. The Finance Director’s role is crucial for maintaining the fiscal health of the county, particularly in light of evolving economic pressures such as fluctuating property values and changes in state funding formulas.

Community Impact

Steele County officials emphasized that the new Finance Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the county’s financial future. With a population of approximately 24,000 residents, the county relies on effective financial management to support essential services—schools, road maintenance, public safety, and social services. The position will help secure sustainable funding streams and manage capital projects, ensuring that county resources are allocated efficiently.

In a recent interview, County Administrator Jane Doe highlighted that the Finance Director will work closely with local businesses and community leaders to promote economic development initiatives. “We need a director who can balance fiscal prudence with strategic growth,” Doe said. “Our goal is to create a stable financial foundation that supports both the current needs of residents and the long-term prosperity of Steele County.”

Job Posting Details

For those interested in applying, the job posting includes additional specifics such as the salary range and benefits package. The role offers a competitive salary, aligning with regional benchmarks for similar positions. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement plan, and paid time off. The posting also stresses the county’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applicants from a variety of backgrounds to apply.

The job posting can be found on the county’s careers website, which provides instructions on how to submit an application, including required documentation and the contact email for inquiries: financejobs@steelecounty.gov. Candidates may also download the application form directly from the site.

Looking Ahead

Steele County’s search for a new Finance Director reflects the county’s broader commitment to strong governance and fiscal responsibility. By engaging a professional with proven expertise in public finance, the county aims to secure a robust financial framework that supports ongoing public services and future growth initiatives. The County Board of Supervisors anticipates appointing a qualified candidate by late September, after a thorough review of applications and interviews.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to monitor the county’s official website and the Owatonna People’s Press for updates on the hiring process and the eventual appointment. As the county continues to navigate fiscal challenges and opportunities, the role of the Finance Director will remain central to ensuring that Steele County’s finances are managed with prudence, transparency, and foresight.