Finance Director
About the Position
The Finance Director serves as the City of Shawano’s chief financial steward, providing strategic leadership, oversight, and accountability for all municipal and utility financial operations. Reporting to the City Administrator, this role is responsible for long-range financial planning, budgeting, accounting, treasury functions, and regulatory compliance, while ensuring sound fiscal management and transparent reporting. As a key member of the City’s management team, the Finance Director partners closely with department leaders and elected officials to support informed decision-making, safeguard public resources, and maintain the City’s long-term financial health.
About the Community
The City of Shawano—often referred to as “Wisconsin’s Gateway to the Northwoods”—is a welcoming and growing community of 9,700 residents located along the Wolf River in northeastern Wisconsin. Situated 30 miles northwest of Green Bay, Shawano offers convenient access to regional amenities while maintaining a strong small-city identity rooted in history, tradition, and community pride.
Shawano is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and vibrant community life. The City is home to Shawano Lake, the Wolf River, and numerous parks, trails, and recreation facilities that support boating, fishing, hiking, and year-round outdoor activities. A lively calendar of community events, festivals, and local traditions brings residents together and reinforces Shawano’s family-friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The City oversees a diverse mix of established neighborhoods, a historic downtown district, and active commercial and industrial areas. Shawano places a strong emphasis on thoughtful growth, fiscal responsibility, and the delivery of high-quality municipal services. Strategic investments in infrastructure, utilities, and public facilities reflect the City’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and long-term financial stewardship.
With its scenic setting, engaged residents, and strong civic leadership, Shawano offers an exceptional opportunity to live, work, and serve in a community that values collaboration, accountability, and forward-thinking governance. The City is supported by a progressive and professional staff team that prioritizes learning, growth, and innovation—fostering a supportive, team-oriented culture where people are empowered to do meaningful work, have fun, and make a real impact.
Learn more at cityofshawano.com.
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a collaborative and forward-thinking municipal finance professional who combines strong technical expertise with sound judgment and a service-oriented mindset. They will bring demonstrated experience in governmental accounting, budgeting, and financial analysis, along with the ability to communicate complex financial information in a clear, practical manner to elected officials, staff, and the community. This individual will be a trusted advisor to City leadership, an effective mentor to Finance staff, and a steady steward of public resources—supporting informed decision-making, strengthening internal controls, and advancing the City’s
long-term financial sustainability.
Salary Range: $110,000 - $120,000 (DOQ)
Excellent benefits package includes:
Exceptional insurance, benefits, and time-off program.
Enrollment in Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Pension
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field is required.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) certification is strongly preferred.
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in upper-level accounting and financial management, including at least two years of supervisory experience, is required.
Demonstrated experience in municipal accounting or financial administration, with a strong understanding of local government operations.
Direct experience with municipal budgeting, utility accounting and finance, and/or governmental fund accounting is strongly preferred.
Active participation in professional organizations and a commitment to ongoing professional development and continuing education is expected.
Learn more:
Apply now!
Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is conducting the executive recruitment process for this position.
Applications are now being accepted until filled with first review no later than February 25, 2026.
Please upload or email your cover letter, resume, salary history, and professional references to Jay Shambeau at jay@public-advisors.com.
Please direct questions to Jay at 262-355-6102.
Thank you for your interest!