Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA)

Today, we continue celebrating GFOA members for outstanding public service. Since joining the City of Ketchum, Finance Director Brent Davis has led a transformation of the Finance department, working to improve internal operations, streamline processes, and strengthen financial accountability. Carly Ching, finance specialist, shared that “Brent’s leadership serves as a model for finance professionals at every level.” Brent combines technical know-how with a people-first approach, helping his team find purpose and grow in their careers. His emphasis on mentorship, cooperation, and vision has helped elevate both team performance and public confidence. #GFOA #localgov #leadership

Ready to elevate your leadership skills? Applications are due in two weeks! Our Fall Leadership Academy, 16–21, at the College of Charleston, combines dynamic instruction, real-world case studies, and peer-to-peer learning to help you strengthen your leadership capabilities and bring new ideas back to your organization. Don’t miss this chance to take your leadership to the next level. Learn more and apply at: https://lnkd.in/ec-8HxK6 #GFOA #localgov #leadership #innovation

A “first principle” is a basic, foundational concept. First principles represent the most essential elements of any given pursuit. Just as accounting has first principles, such as reliability, timeliness and consistency; public finance has its own first principles. They include: 💡Promote Accountability 💡Create Value with Public Money 💡Ensure Fairness 💡Uphold Stewardship of Public Resources 💡Champion Financial Resiliency 💡Be a Decision Architect Learn more from this article in the latest issue of Government Finance Review: https://lnkd.in/egCmgujt #GFOA #localgov #publicfinance #innovation #rethinkingbudgeting

Ready to build better finance? GFOA’s Best Practices Forum, September 15–19, kicks off in a little over just two weeks! Over five days, you’ll gain access to nine expert-led sessions, explore case studies, and walk away with the tools to strengthen your organization’s financial foundation. Register now at https://lnkd.in/eY68pbwn. #GFOA #localgov #bestpractices #publicfinance #innovation

Today, we recognize Lori Cooke for outstanding public service. Lori is the budget manager for Washoe County, Nevada. With 25 years of #localgov service, Lori was the driving force behind the county’s first “Budget Congress,” bringing department heads together to share resources, align goals, and solve problems. She has helped teams take a proactive approach by building financial forecasts, anticipating challenges, and quantifying outcomes. Known regionally for her competence in revenue forecasting, Lori is active in state and local finance communities and is respected for her accuracy and forward-thinking initiatives. Congratulations Lori! #GFOA #leadership #inspiration

Today we celebrate another new Certified Public Finance Officer! Adam Vaughn, budget and finance director for the City of Toppenish, Washington, recently completed his CPFO journey. For Adam, pursuing the CPFO designation was a natural step toward building a structured path to learning and staying connected to best practices in government finance. Along the way, he was reminded that government finance isn’t just about checking boxes, it’s about ensuring that processes reflect the values of the community and help foster trust. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/epnSYA5m #GFOA #localgov #leadership #certification #CPFO

Together We Innovate. We're excited to announce that we're exploring the creation of a Public Finance Innovation Lab, a new initiative designed to accelerate how local governments adopt innovative practices and technologies. To help lead this exploration, we're launching a search for an Innovator-in-Residence, a visionary leader who will shape the Lab’s initial strategy, partnerships, and business model. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/ep6QyNeh #GFOA #localgov #innovation #technology

ERP implementation projects are challenging, but preparation makes success possible. Too often, governments begin without taking simple readiness steps such as defining scope, aligning staff, preparing data, and documenting processes, which can lead to delays and costly change orders. During this October 31 webinar, we'll highlight common pain points and share strategies to reduce risk. Speakers will also outline what every #localgov should do in the 12 months before starting an ERP implementation to set the project up for success. Register at https://lnkd.in/ewr9ZjdG. #GFOA #localgov #ERP #ERPimplementation #processimprovement #publicfinance

Deadline reminder! GFOA’s Awards for Excellence in Government Finance recognize innovative programs and contributions that exemplify outstanding financial management. These awards highlight practical, documented work that provides leadership to the profession and promotes better public finance. Entries may be submitted in one of two categories: 🔹 Creative Solution to a Common Challenge 🔹 Exceptionally Well Implemented GFOA Best Practice Applications are evaluated on local value and significance, technical impact, transferability, documentation, cost/benefit analysis, efficiency, originality, and durability. ✅ The application is free ✅ The process is easy 📅 Applications are due August 29. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/dqXrcwH. #GFOA #localgov #innovation #bestpractices

Does your government have a clear strategy for cash flow forecasting? Understanding the movement of funds in and out of your organization is critical for meeting financial needs and avoiding short-term borrowing. Join us on October 30 for a webinar that will walk through the fundamentals of cash flow analysis, including how to track inflows and outflows, develop accurate forecast reports, and use the latest tools to strengthen liquidity management. This session is designed for CFOs, finance directors, controllers, treasurers, budget analysts, and accountants who want to build confidence in their cash flow strategy. Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your skills. Register today at https://lnkd.in/eKz8H2G2. #GFOA #localgov