Special Projects Manager - Finance na Whatcom County, WA

About the Department

Whatcom County is recruiting for the position of Special Projects Manager in the Finance Division of Administrative Services.  This position is responsible for leading technology-driven improvements and data-informed decision-making within the Finance Department. Reporting to the Finance Director, this position manages major system implementations, develops innovative reporting and analytics capabilities, and drives process modernization across finance functions. The role requires a strong blend of financial expertise, project management, and change leadership to support the County’s strategic goals and ensure efficient, transparent financial operations.
Essential duties include:
Technology Implementation and Digital Transformation:

• Lead the selection and implementation of new budget software system, including RFP development, vendor evaluation, system configuration, and staff training coordination
• Optimize existing ERP system utilization through process analysis, system configuration improvements, and staff training to maximize operational efficiency
• Spearhead finance-specific Microsoft 365 optimization, becoming the subject matter expert on SharePoint, Power BI, Forms, and other productivity tools for financial operations
• Design and implement automated reporting solutions using Power BI and other available technologies to provide real-time financial data and dashboards
• Develop digital workflows and process automation to reduce manual, paper-based operations and improve departmental efficiency

Data Analysis and Storytelling:

• Create comprehensive data visualization and analytics capabilities to help the department "tell its story with data" to county leadership and other stakeholders
• Develop executive dashboards and key performance indicators (KPIs) that provide meaningful insights into county financial operations
• Transform raw financial data into actionable intelligence through advanced analytics and reporting tools
• Lead initiatives to improve data quality, consistency, and accessibility across all finance divisions
• Support bond issuance projects by developing sophisticated financial analysis, projections, and presentation materials for rating agencies and investors

Process Improvement and Modernization:

• Conduct comprehensive workflow analysis across budget, operations (payroll, AP), and purchasing divisions to identify improvement opportunities
• Lead cross-divisional projects to standardize and streamline financial processes, eliminating outdated and cumbersome procedures
• Develop and implement new policies and procedures that support efficient, technology-enabled operations
• Coordinate with other county departments to improve interdepartmental financial processes and service delivery
• Create training programs and documentation to support new systems and processes

Project Management and Change Leadership:

• Manage multiple technology and process improvement projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and stakeholder satisfaction
• Facilitate change management efforts to help staff adapt to new technologies and improved processes
• Serve as liaison between finance department and IT, vendors, and other departments on system integration and technology projects
• Coordinate project teams that span multiple divisions and departments, ensuring effective communication and collaboration
• Monitor project budgets, timelines, and deliverables to ensure successful completion of initiatives

Strategic Support and Analysis:

• Assist with preparation of financial statements and supporting documentation for annual audits
• Develop financial models and analysis to support strategic decision-making by county leadership
• Lead special financial studies and analysis projects as assigned by the Finance Director
• Support grant applications and compliance monitoring through improved data collection and reporting capabilities
• Provide analytical support for budget development, variance analysis, and financial forecasting

For additional information, see Job Description and Finance Division Supplemental Job Description

Minimum Qualifications

Requires a bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Information Systems, or a related field AND 5 years of progressively responsible experience in finance, technology implementation, or process improvement, INCLUDING experience with project management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or similar project management credentials.
• Experience with ERP system optimization and implementation.
• Background in data analytics, business intelligence, or financial systems.
• Knowledge of Microsoft 365 suite, particularly Power BI, SharePoint, and automation tools.
• Experience in governmental or public sector finance.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or similar professional certification.

Required Knowledge:

• Project management methodologies and best practices
• Financial systems and database management
• Data analysis, visualization, and business intelligence concepts
• Process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, or similar)
• Change management principles and practices
• Basic understanding of governmental accounting and finance operations
• Technology implementation and system integration principles

Required Abilities:

• Lead complex, multi-faceted projects involving technology, process change, and stakeholder management
• Learn new software systems quickly and train others effectively
• Analyze complex workflows and identify improvement opportunities
• Communicate technical concepts to non-technical audiences
• Work collaboratively across multiple divisions and departments
• Adapt to changing priorities while maintaining focus on strategic objectives
• Think strategically about technology solutions while managing tactical implementation details
• Build consensus and drive change in a traditionally structured government environment

At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

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