Job Title: Director
Department/Agency: Department of Treasury (DOT)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $85,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
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Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Director of the Department of Treasury (DOT) serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the American Samoa Government (ASG), responsible for overseeing the fiscal operations of the territory. The Director ensures that financial systems, policies, and procedures are in place to maintain accountability, compliance, and fiscal responsibility. This leadership role requires effective management of the department’s financial resources, including budgeting, revenue collection, disbursements, financial reporting, and policy development. The Director also advises the Governor, Legislature, and other key stakeholders on financial matters critical to the economic health and sustainability of American Samoa.
As the principal financial advisor to the government, the Director will ensure that ASG’s financial practices are in line with local, national, and international standards, while supporting the long-term goals of fiscal stability, transparency, and economic growth. The role requires someone with exceptional leadership skills, strategic foresight, and a deep understanding of public finance, coupled with an ability to manage complex financial systems.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Management:
Lead the development, preparation, and execution of the ASG’s annual budget, ensuring alignment with fiscal policies, the Governor’s priorities, and the strategic objectives of the territory.
Ensure that all financial systems, processes, and policies comply with government regulations, accounting standards, and best practices to safeguard public resources.
Develop and implement long-term financial strategies to maintain fiscal stability, promote economic development, and optimize the use of government resources.
Revenue Collection & Fiscal Policy:
Supervise and guide the operations of the Tax Office to ensure timely, efficient, and accurate tax collection in compliance with ASG’s tax laws and policies.
Design and implement fiscal policies related to revenue generation, fiscal discipline, taxation, and cost management to support the government’s financial sustainability.
Analyze revenue trends, economic conditions, and other factors to optimize revenue collection and recommend innovative revenue strategies.
Disbursements & Financial Operations:
Oversee the Disbursing Office to ensure the proper and efficient distribution of government funds, ensuring that obligations are met in accordance with ASG’s policies.
Maintain effective oversight of disbursements, including payments to vendors, contractors, and other financial obligations, ensuring timely and accurate processing.
Manage the ASG’s cash flow to ensure financial liquidity while maintaining sufficient reserves to meet government obligations without compromising fiscal stability.
Financial Reporting & Transparency:
Ensure the timely and accurate preparation of financial statements and reports in compliance with applicable accounting standards (GAAP), regulatory frameworks, and the requirements of stakeholders such as the Governor, the Legislature, and external auditors.
Maintain an internal control system to monitor financial transactions, safeguard assets, and ensure compliance with all financial regulations.
Facilitate the annual audit process and address audit findings, ensuring corrective actions are implemented where necessary.
Leadership & Team Management:
Provide strategic leadership, direction, and mentorship to Treasury Department staff, fostering a culture of accountability, excellence, and continuous improvement.
Oversee the recruitment, training, and professional development of staff to ensure the department is staffed with skilled and motivated professionals capable of delivering high-quality financial management services.
Conduct regular performance evaluations, ensuring that all team members meet performance expectations and contribute to the department’s objectives.
Stakeholder Collaboration & Policy Advising:
Act as the primary advisor to the Governor and other senior officials on matters related to public finances, fiscal policy, and financial governance.
Collaborate with the ASG Legislature, government agencies, and other stakeholders to implement fiscal reforms, financial management strategies, and initiatives that align with the long-term goals of the territory.
Communicate financial policies, strategies, and recommendations effectively to stakeholders at all levels, ensuring alignment with the broader development goals of American Samoa.
Compliance & Risk Management:
Ensure compliance with applicable local, national, and international laws, regulations, and financial reporting standards in all financial operations of the ASG.
Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate financial risks, including public debt, investment strategies, and management of cash reserves.
Oversee the management of government investments, ensuring compliance with legal and policy guidelines and optimizing returns for the territory.
Innovation and Public Sector Finance Reform:
Drive innovation in the ASG’s financial management practices, introducing new technologies, processes, and strategies to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public finance.
Lead efforts to modernize financial systems and reporting mechanisms to meet evolving fiscal demands and ensure alignment with international standards.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Financial Expertise: Comprehensive understanding of public finance, governmental budgeting, taxation, accounting principles, financial analysis, and economic forecasting.
Leadership and Management: Proven ability to lead and manage a large and diverse team, including the development of staff through training, mentorship, and performance management.
Analytical and Strategic Thinking: Strong capability to analyze complex financial data, identify trends, and develop actionable insights and strategic recommendations.
Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex financial information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Regulatory and Legal Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of financial regulations, accounting standards, and policies governing public finance in American Samoa and the Pacific region.
Problem-Solving Skills: Advanced problem-solving abilities to address fiscal challenges, mitigate financial risks, and propose innovative solutions for financial governance.
Technological Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in financial management software, data analytics tools, and Microsoft Office Suite, with an ability to leverage technology for improved financial management.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree in a relevant field is strongly preferred.
Experience: A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in public financial management, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing financial operations in a government or large organizational setting.
Certifications: Professional certifications, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), or equivalent are highly desirable.
Specialized Knowledge: Experience in government financial operations, particularly within a Pacific Island context, is strongly preferred. Familiarity with ASG laws, regulations, and fiscal policies is a plus.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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