Description
The Kentucky Association of Counties (KACo) is seeking a new Chief Financial Officer who will join us in Frankfort, Kentucky, the charming capital of the Bluegrass State, which offers an exceptional quality of life that makes it an ideal place to live, work, and play. Nestled along the Kentucky River, this picturesque city combines a rich history, a vibrant community, and natural beauty. Its small-town charm is perfectly balanced with the amenities and opportunities of a capital city, creating a unique and welcoming environment. The city’s central location between Louisville and Lexington offers convenient access to larger metropolitan areas while maintaining a more affordable cost of living and a relaxed pace of life. Frankfort also shines as a place to enjoy recreational activities and cultural experiences. The city boasts a thriving arts scene, with local galleries, theaters, and festivals celebrating creativity and heritage.
ABOUT KACo
The Kentucky Association of Counties is a statewide organization that serves and supports Kentucky’s 120 counties through a comprehensive suite of programs and services. KACo provides legislative advocacy, legal services, financing services, insurance, training and education, member engagement, and IT and communications support, helping county governments operate more effectively and deliver essential services to their communities. To support these operations, KACo employs more than 40 full-time staff members.
For full details, view the recruitment brochure at Mercer Group Associates Current Searches.
ABOUT THE POSITION
In this high-impact role, you will be responsible for the comprehensive management of all financial and accounting activities, including budget planning, cash flow management, and the development of forward-looking predictive models to guide organizational growth. You will function as a primary advisor to the CEO and Board of Directors, exercising independent judgment to ensure sound fiscal policy and long-term financial health. Additionally, the CFO represents the association to external partners, financial institutions, and auditors Maintaining the high standards of transparency and integrity that our members expect.
Beyond high-level strategy, the CFO provides critical administrative leadership by supervising accounting staff and ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of all financial reporting. You will be responsible for maintaining rigorous internal controls, managing complex audits, and ensuring strict compliance with federal and state regulatory standards. This includes overseeing sophisticated computer applications for financial record-keeping and staying current on nonprofit audit best practices. Backed by robust asset management and disciplined accounting Procedures, your leadership will ensure that KACo remains a fiscally resilient resource for Kentucky counties. A full job description is available upon request.
Hybrid Work Schedule
This position is Kentucky based and will operate under a hybrid structure, with one day per week of remote work. Attendance at KACo association and insurance board meetings, conferences, and educational events will be required.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The expected starting salary for this position is $150,000 – $200,000 depending upon qualifications. Approved relocation reimbursement is negotiable. Excellent benefits include:
Insurance & Retirement: Health, Vision, Dental, $50K Life, Accidental D&D Insurance are all provided by KACo at 100%. Retirement: 401(k) Match Up to 6%; participation in Kentucky State County Employee Retirement System (CERS).
Paid Leave: 17 paid holidays annually; 1 day of vacation time earned each month (carry over up to 400 hours); 1 day of sick time earned each month.
Educational Assistance Program: Available for accredited educational programs; 80% of approved tuition books and fees up to $10,000 per calendar year.
Work Flexibility: 1 day of remote work each week.
Additional Offerings: Public Service Loan Forgiveness; Voluntary Life, Cancer Assist, Critical Illness, and Accident Insurance; Medical Air & Ground Transport Insurance.
TO APPLY
Interested candidates are invited to apply by emailing the following items to Jeff Hale, Senior Associate, Mercer Group Associates at jeffhale@localgovhrs.com by 6:00 PM EST, May 16, 2026:
- Cover letter
- Resume
- List of five job related references with email and phone contact information
- Adobe (.pdf ) format is preferred.
Kentucky Association of Counties (KACo) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
For questions, please contact: Jeff Hale, Senior Associate: jeffhale@localgovhrs.com, (706) 371-6126
Requirements
BACKGROUND AND QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business or public administration, or related degree, or any equivalent combination of education, training, and significant leadership experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
Five (5) years management level accounting experience
Current knowledge of financial and accounting computer applications
Knowledge of and familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite programs
Excellent oral and written communications skills
Must be able to work well with others
Preferred Qualifications
- Three years of supervisory experience
- Experience in nonprofit local government insurance and financial services sectors
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Experience with Sage (MAS 90) and Quickbooks software applications
