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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Treasurer - Candidate Interviews CITY TREASURER RECRUITMENT 2011 INTERVIEW SCHEDULE FOR FEB. 18,2011 Last First Resident Experience Masters Bachelors CA MTA 9:00 Breen Greg yes X 9:30. Carroll Nancy yes X 10:00 Cutchen Alisa yes X 10:30 Pa'parella Ben yes X 11:00 Jacobson Judith yes X X 11:30 Vu: Billy yes. X X 12:00 Anderson Jennifer yes Minimum 5 yrs of Master's Bachelor's Certification by financial and/or Degree in: Degree in: the CA treasury experience accounting, accounting, Municipal finanace, finance, Treasurer's Business,or business,or Assoc or their Public Public successor, Administration Administration within 3 yr Education and Certifications BA in Business, emphasis in Accounting 1978—Cal State University Fullerton CMA certificate, Inactive/Retired CPA certificate Civic Interests Volunteer for the American Red Cross, Blood Services Election Day poll worker ALISA CUTCHEN Surfnet-Boards & Commission Application Page 2 of 2 operating over 100 facilities nation-wide-Full P&L responsibility including forecasting, budgeting and coaching staff in attaining monthly targets-Directed and motivate operations and administrative staff of over 700 employees nation-wide-Created inventory management procedures throughout retail chains reducing cost of sales by 5%annually-Introduced new cost control measures reducing operating and G&A overhead by$1 million annually-Increased new-customer base by over 15%by implementing sales and marketing programs focused on building brand awareness and customer loyalty SEARS, ROEBUCK&COMPANY(2003-2004) DISTRICT OPERATIONS MANAGER SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA-Managed local retail product and service operations for Fortune 500 retailer providing customer satisfaction to over 300,000 customers per year with combined annual revenues of over$20 million-Directed and developed district management team of 15 direct reports to drive the growth of revenue, ensure cost reduction and guarantee customer satisfaction-Revamped and standardized operational controls throughout district, reducing retail shrink by 5%, increasing incremental service revenue over 20%and increasing overall customer service ratings-Instituted cost rationalization program yielding the region an annual savings of over$250,000 SHELL OIL PRODUCTS, U.S.(1996—2003) SALES CONSULTANT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA-Implemented re-branding and directed sales and marketing strategies for over 40 franchise and company-operated Texaco and Shell convenience store/gas station facilities while overseeing all related administrative and support responsibilities including full P& L responsibility-Planned and coordinated the opening of new QSR&retail facilities throughout Southern California-Oversaw the selection,training and development of new franchisees and corporate staff-Hired, managed, coached and counseled staff of up to 12 direct reports and 150 employees ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations governing staffing and selection CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH(1989-1996) PARKING CONTROL OFFICER HUNTINGTON BEACH -Under minimal supervision enforced local and state parking and vehicle code regulations within the City of Huntington Beach-Developed and participated in scofflaw task force for the recovery of unpaid parking citation fees through vehicular impound-Assisted in training new employees Special Knowledge or Skill In addition to being fluent in most Microsoft Office programs, 1 possess basic Spanish skills Civic and/or Service Memberships Parish Council Member-St.Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Huntington Beach Civic Interests My family and I are avid users of the recreation centers around town, especially the pool at the city gymnasium. I am also an active supporter of the Huntington Beach Playhouse at the city library. Availability(Must be available for meetings) My schedule is very flexible and I would ensure there would be no conflicts with my work duties including meetings. How Will You Qualifications Best Serve the Needs of the Community? With over six years experience managing the finances of businesses and over 14-years of leadership experience in the business community I believe that my professional background makes me a strong candidate for this role. In addition, I earned my MBA from the University of California and currently run a consulting practice for small business owners. I worked for the City of Huntington Beach for nearly seven years,first as a Student Worker and then as a Parking Control Officer, so I understand the infrastructure of the city government. Finally,as a proud native resident, I am very familiar with the community and believe that I would be able to apply my knowledge,skills and education to successfully serve my fellow citizens in this role. Why Do You Wish to Serve on a Volunteer Citizen's Body?. I have been looking for an opportunity to give back to my hometown by offering my skills and education in a discipline in which I am very familiar. I see this role as being the perfect opportunity to do this. http://surfnet/admin/boards_commissions/application_print_view.cfm?ID=645 1/13/2011 GREGORY M. BREEN UNITED OIL (2008 - 2009) GENERAL MANAGER Los ANGELES,CA • Directed and motivated senior level management team of 13 direct reports for a premier retail fuel/convenience store operator with over 115 locations and annual revenues exceeding$1 billion • Providing guidance to ownership, developed short and long-term business goals designed to secure the company's position as best in the industry while increasing operational efficiencies and profitability • Established performance benchmarks for all departments while working with ownership and senior management to successfully meet designated financial and operational targets • While working with retail operations, IT and accounting departments oversaw development and implementation of store level and back office reporting systems, including POS scanning and a centralized retail price book • Maintained direct oversight of category development,vendor relations and price book management • Oversaw successful acquisition of a$25 million gas station/convenience store chain DBAROM,INCJBERRY HINCKLEY INDUSTRIES (2004-2008) SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF RETAIL OPERATIONS/GENERAL MANAGER RENO,NV • Led operations of$150 million gas station, convenience store, quick lube and car wash chain operating over 100 facilities nation-wide • Full P&L responsibility including forecasting, budgeting and coaching staff in attaining monthly targets • Directed and motivate operations and administrative staff of over 700 employees nation-wide • Created inventory management procedures throughout retail chains reducing cost of sales by 5%annually • Introduced new cost control measures reducing operating and G&A overhead by$1 million annually • Increased new-customer base by over 15% by implementing sales and marketing programs focused on building brand awareness and customer loyalty SEARS,ROEBUCK& COMPANY (2003-2004) DISTRICT OPERATIONS MANAGER SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA • Managed local retail product and service operations for Fortune 500 retailer providing customer satisfaction to over 300,000 customers per year with combined annual revenues of over$20 million • Directed and developed district management team of 15 direct reports to drive the growth of revenue, ensure cost reduction and guarantee customer satisfaction • Revamped and standardized operational controls throughout district, reducing retail shrink by 5%, increasing incremental service revenue over 20%and increasing overall customer service ratings • Instituted cost rationalization program yielding the region an annual savings of over$250,000 SHELL OIL PRODUCTS,U.S. (1996—2003) SALES CONSULTANT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA • Implemented re-branding and directed sales and marketing strategies for over 40 franchise and company-operated Texaco and Shell convenience store/gas station facilities while overseeing all related administrative and support responsibilities including full P & L responsibility • Planned and coordinated the opening of new QSR& retail facilities throughout Southern California • Oversaw the selection, training and development of new franchisees and corporate staff • Hired, managed, coached and counseled staff of up to 12 direct reports and 150 employees ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations governing staffing and selection 2 GREGORY M. BREEN CITY OF HUNI'INGTON BEACH (1989—1996) PARKING CONTROL OFFICER/STUDENT WORKER HUNTINGTON BEACH,CA • Under minimal supervision enforced local and state parking and vehicle code regulations within the City of Huntington Beach • Developed and participated in scofflaw task force for the recovery of unpaid parking citation fees through vehicular impound • Assisted in training new employees • Represented the City of Huntington Beach in court to provide supporting evidence and testimony in cases where citations were contested • Under minimal supervision assisted Police personnel as a Student Worker assigned to the Radio and Communications Department 3 NANCY CARROLL Surfnet- Boards & Commission Application Page 2 of 2 see above Availability(Must be available for meetings) available How Will You Qualifications Best Serve the Needs of the Community? I have worked well in many enviornments and have extensive experience in accounting and finance. Why Do You Wish to Serve on a Volunteer Citizen's Body? yes http://surfnet/admin/boards_commissions/application_print_view.cfm?ID=654 1/26/2011 BEN PAPARELLA JUDITH JACOBSON PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: (continued) with investment and banking communities. Researched/implemented new cost-effective banking processes. Developed new investment policy& investment accounting procedures.Administered the City's Deferred Compensation programs. Recommend investment strategy for the City's debt financing. Department budget administration, monitoring, and expenditure approval. The Orange County Treasurer,Chief Investment Officer,2-1990 thru 9-2006 Directed Treasurer's Investment Division, including planning, organizing, and reviewing..current/future operations; recognizing/recommending/developing new policies and procedures.Create and mentor effective team for achieving department goals and objectives. Developed/controlled/monitored the County's cash position with accurate cash forecasting and safe, liquid and prudent investments.Created and directed a$6+billion,fixed-income portfolio earning 2 AAA credit ratings. Participated in bond/debt issuance programs and directed trustees on appropriate investments. Developed automated processes for investment strategies, revenue projections,and economic analysis. Implemented/improved financial processes&/or procedures with emphasis on accuracy and compliance. Instituted a straight-through- processing system connecting financial reporting,cash operations,and investment purchases.Wrote reports and made presentations on financial,economic and investment data to executive committees and the Board of Supervisors. Prepared and reviewed annual and five-year business plan. Participated on several executive and oversight committees. Researched and interpreted California Government Code for incorporation into investment policy and ultimate compliance of portfolio. SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE OR SKILLS: I have special knowledge and skills: administering municipal treasury departments, directing investment and banking activities,collecting money receivables,developing cash flow forecasts, managing financial reporting, projecting revenue streams, managing debt programs, researching and analyzing California government code. CIVIC AND/OR SERVICE MEMBERSHIPS: N/A CIVIC INTERESTS: N/A AVAILABILITY: I am available immediately HOW WILL YOUR KNOWLEDGE BEST SERVE THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY: The City of Huntington Beach should have a treasury professional with significant public sector experience as their City Treasurer.I'm just that person. For almost 20 years, I have held positions of increasing responsibility in the management of treasury operations within the public sector. My responsibilities have included: directing investment activities,managing cash collections, developing cash flow forecasts,managing financial reporting operations, projecting revenue streams, managing debt programs, making credit agencies presentations,and coordinating internal audits. I was involved in successfully restructuring the Orange County Treasurer's office,wrote the award winning investment policy statement,and modified several sections of California Government Code. HOW WILL YOUR KNOWLEDGE BEST SERVE THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY:(continued) My experience, proven leadership skills, achievements in conservative investing,and knowledge of government code allowed me to take over,with just a minutes notice,an existing Treasurer's Office for the City of Redlands. I'm ready and able to do that for the City and residents of Huntington Beach. WHY DO YOU WISH TO SERVE ON A VOLUNTEER CITIZEN'S BODY? N/A January 31, 2011 Mr. Fred Wilson,City Manager City of Huntington Beach 2000 Main Street, P.O. Box 190 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Re: City Treasurer Dear Mr.Wilson: Please accept this letter along with my application and resume in consideration for the City Treasurer position. For more than 15 years, I have held positions of increasing responsibility in the management of treasury operations within the government sector. My responsibilities have included: directing investment operations, developing cash flow forecasts, managing debt programs, making credit agencies presentations, and coordinating internal audits. I was involved in successfully restructuring the Orange County Treasurer's office,wrote the award winning investment policy statement, and modified several sections of California Government Code relating to investments. At this stage of my career,the part-time City Treasurer position would be perfect for me. My experience and background has provided me with the knowledge and skills that, I believe,the City of Huntington Beach should have in a City Treasurer. It would be my pleasure to meet and discuss this position with you in the near future. Sincere , r udith A. Jacobson Attachments ,JUDITH A. ,JACOBSON CAREER BACKGROUND(CONTINUED) ee eat * Created a centralized cash management department to consolidate the financial operation of the bank's nation-wide subsidiaries * Developed and implemented new revenue&disbursement monitoring and reporting system. * Developed investment strategy and created a$2 billion investment porhfolio. a • e a e . • • - `o -o ` ` ® ` ® o •o o sa ' • o oe EDUCAWN College for Financial Planning, CFP®certificate program California State University, Fullerton BA, Business/Finance-GPA-3.6 Orange Coast College,Costa Mesa AA, Business Seminars and Conferences: Investments/Management/Finance/Accounting/Economic Page 2 of 2 BILLY VU net- Boards & Commission Application Page 2 of 2 Planned, implemented and set up clients'new accounting systems and/or systems conversion; •Managed general ledger, accounts payable,accounts receivable, bank reconciliation, company's risks, and human resources functions; •Managed all aspects of business developments such as advertising,target marketing, referrals, pricing strategy; •Developed,trained, and mentored one accountant. Senior Accountant-Canadian Consulate General(January 1999-September 2001)•Assisted the Comptroller with budget planning and administering; •Reconciled bank statements; •Reviewed&maintained contracts; •Provided accounting and budget support to other Program Managers; •Reviewed and approved travel expenses claims according to travel directives; •Communicated operating results to both accounting and non-accounting managements; Administered the Consulate's bank account and petty cash;•Managed foreign exchange rate and policies; Prepared and analyzed monthly budget variances; •Prepared and administered month-end and fiscal year-end closings; •Reviewed operating procedures to ensure adequacy of internal controls;•Trained&mentored one junior accountant; •Reviewed and/or prepared payroll,AP, special revenue fund,journal entries,and-adjusting journal entries. Cost&AP Accountant-Addison Wesley Longman(July 1998-December 1998)•Prepared and allocated unit costs to inventories, and research cost issues as needed;•Performed journal entries and adjusting journal entries for unit costs; •Coded invoices with appropriate GL accounts for AP department; Verified invoice items with receiving records in warehouse database. Cost/Financial Analyst-Dade Behring (June 1997-July 1998)•Analyzed variances in production costs; •Prepared month-end,quarter-end, and year- end closings; •Prepared journal entries and adjusting closing journal entries,depreciation and amortization schedules; •Prepared monthly,quarterly,and yearly analysis reports for senior managements. Registered Representative-WMA Securities, Inc. (September 1996-February 1999)•Performed oral sales presentation in an individual setting as well as in a group setting; •Originated residential/commercial mortgages,and SBA loans; •Held securities license Series 6&63, Life/Health/Property&Casualty insurance license. Special Knowledge or Skill Budgeting,financial forecast and projections,variance analysis,tax compliance and research, investment analysis. Civic and/or Service Memberships n/a Civic Interests Help kids and strengthen the community. Availability(Must be available for meetings) Extremely flexible. How Will You Qualifications Best Serve the Needs of the Community? I will listen for the variable needs of the community and use my experience and skills and analyze these newly acquired knowledge and develop a plan suitable to the current needs of the community and hopefully flexible enough to adapt to the community's future needs as well. Why Do You Wish to Serve on a Volunteer Citizen's Body? n/a http://surfnet/admin/boards_commissions/application_print_view.cfm?ID=657 1/31/2011 Billy Vu, CPA, MBA, MST Page—2 • Planned, implemented and set up clients' new accounting systems and/or systems conversion; • Managed general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliation, company's risks, and human resources functions; • Managed all aspects of business developments such as advertising, target marketing, referrals, pricing strategy; • Developed, trained, and mentored one accountant. Senior Accountant- Canadian Consulate General(January 1999-September 2001) • Assisted the Comptroller with budget planning and administering; • Reconciled bank statements; ® Reviewed & maintained contracts; • Provided accounting and budget support to other Program Managers; • Reviewed and approved travel expenses claims according to travel directives; • Communicated operating results to both accounting and non-accounting managements; • Administered the Consulate's bank account and petty cash; o Managed foreign exchange rate and policies; • Prepared and analyzed monthly budget variances; • Prepared and administered month-end and fiscal year-end closings; • Reviewed operating procedures to ensure adequacy of internal controls; • Trained & mentored one junior accountant; • Reviewed and/or prepared payroll, AP, special revenue fund, journal entries, and adjusting journal entries. Cost&AP Accountant-Addison Wesley Longman (July 1998-December 1998) • Prepared and allocated unit costs to inventories, and research cost issues as needed; • Verified invoice items with receiving records in warehouse database. Cost/Financial Analyst-Dade Behring(June 1997-July 1998) • Analyzed variances in production costs; • Prepared month-end, quarter-end, and year-end closings; • Prepared journal entries and adjusting closing journal entries, depreciation and amortization schedules; • Prepared monthly, quarterly, and yearly analysis reports for senior managements. Registered Representative-WMA Securities, Inc. (September 1996-February 1999) • Held securities license Series 6 &63, Life/Health/Property &Casualty insurance license. EDUCATION • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with triple concentrations in Accounting, Finance, and Marketing, University of Massachusetts, 1997. • Master of Business Administration in Accounting, University of Phoenix, 2004. • Master of Science in Taxation, Washington School of Law, 2005. • Executive Graduate Certificate in Accounting —Taxation Emphasis, Strayer University, 2005. COMPUTER SKILLS Operating Systems: Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, XP, Vista &2000 Small Business Server, MAC Software: SAP, M-1, JD Edwards, ACCPAC, Ultra Tax, ATX, Lacerte, CCH, RIA, Kleinrock, Creative Solutions, AccTrk21, Peachtree, QuickBooks, Excel (Advanced User), PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, Publisher. LICENSE • Certified Public Accountant LANGUAGES • Fluency in English and Vietnamese; light reading knowledge of French. References Available Upon Request JENNIFER ANDERSON City `I•reasurer Interviews February 18, 2011 NATIVE RANK ORDER Greg Breen Nancy Carroll Alisa Cutchen Ben Paparella Judith Jacobson Billy Vu Jennifer Anderson Interview Schedule for City Treasurer February 18, 2011 Location City Hall Interview _ 0:30 11 Room B-8 �Duration 2000 Main Street Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Time I Candidates { 8:30 Orientation 9:00 Greg Breen 9:30Nancy Carroll 10:00 Alisa Cutchen 10:30 Ben Paparella 3 11:00 Judith Jacobson 11:30 Billy Vu 12:1010 Jennifer Anderson 12:30 Debriefing CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH CITY TREASURER INTERVIEW QUESTIONS February 18, 2011 1. Briefly describe to us how your experience, education, and training have prepared you to be successful in the position of City Treasurer with the City of Huntington Beach. 2. Specifically, what are your strengths as an individual that make you the best choice for this position and are there any aspects of this position that you feel are not well matched to your skill set? 3. After conducting your own research and analysis of the City's current investment portfolio and investment policy, what were your initial observations and reactions? What surprised you most? 4. Please identify the financial market data you would use to inform your decision making process in monitoring and developing the portfolio. What economic indicators would you use as tools to inform your decisions? 5. Tell us how you would determine the credit worthiness of a given investment before purchasing it for the City's portfolio. Include what type of information you would use, from what sources, and how often you would review it. What sources of data would you check to confirm the validity of a given rating? 6. Assuming the Fed maintains interest rates at current levels for the next year, what would be your recommended investment strategy for the short-term portion of the portfolio? 7. Presenting investments and financial information to the public often requires translating data into layman's terms and making it clear and concise so that it is easily understood. Tell us about any experience you have making public presentations. 8. We all have had our successes in life and our disappointments. We sometimes learn most from our failures. Regarding financial investments, what was your most notable lesson learned? "Thank you for your interest in this appointment. As an applicant, you should be aware that the appointment will fill the current vacancy and is limited by the City's Charter. The City Treasurer is an elective office and the new term will commence on the first Monday following the certification of the 2012 election." Technical Questions Information This document is not designed to provide comprehensive responses to the questions listed, but instead is designed to ASSIST Councilmembers in their evaluation of responses given by candidates. Question #3: Analysis of City's investment portfolio and investment policy • Compliance: Whether the portfolio complies with the City's Annual Investment Policy and the California Government Code • Maturities: Whether the portfolio has the right assortment of maturities (i.e. the timing of when the investments mature and the City can then reinvest). (Please note: no investment can exceed 5 years in duration) • Credit ratings and risk: Whether the portfolio has a high or low degree of risk and whether any of the investments appear to be problematic (Please.note: all portfolio holdings must be rated at least single "A "or better) • Investment Limits: Whether the portfolio should be restructured to be more heavily weighted in some types of investments versus others (Please note: there are limits on certain investments, e.g. LAIF cannot exceed$60 million) • Diversification and asset allocation: Whether they agree or disagree with the current mix and types of investments in the portfolio • Lig uidi : Whether it appears the City can meet its cash needs over the next 6 months (e.g. as shown by cash on hand, and/or LAIF balances) • Interest RatesNield: Whether the interest earnings are too low, or about where they should be given the current fixed income market and prevailing interest rates • Benchmarks: Whether the portfolio's current benchmarks are appropriate to compare against. Question #4: Knowledge of and experience with financial market data and economic indicators • Daily stock market performance and/or bond market performance • Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting dates and decisions (Please note: the FOMC sets the nation's overnight inter-bank lending rates. Currently at 0.25% or a quarter of a percent). • Corporate Quarterly Earnings Reports (for the Corporate bonds in the portfolio) • Any of the 3 types of economic indicators (i.e. Leading, Lagging and Coincident) including(but not limited to): o Gross Domestic Product(GDP) o Consumer Price Index (CPQ o Consumer Confidence o The Purchasing Managers Index(PMI) o Unemployment o New and Existing Home Sales o Manufacturing Index Page 1 of 2 Question #5: Reliable sources of an investment's (or bond issuer's) credit worthiness • Long-term and short term ratings as provided by the 3 main rating agencies (Standard and Poor's, Moody's and Fitch Rating Agency Services) • What sources of data would you check to confirm the validity of a given rating? o Quarterly Earnings Reports and Performance Information o Corporate 10k-and 10Q Filings o Audited Annual Financial Statements o Trading activity o Dews reports and media sources (e.g. Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, etc.) o Insider Trading data — monitoring what the Company's Board of Directors and/or the Officers of the Corporation (e.g. CEO) are doing with their individual holdings (buying or selling and in what volume) o Financial Institution Data — independent research and ratings conducted by major Wall Street firms. Question #6: Proposed investment strategy over the next year given current interest rates • Would he/she recommend investing in shorter maturities since interest rates will likely increase from current levels thereby allowing the City to reinvest at higher interest rates later? • Or would he/she recommend investing in longer maturities since longer maturities generally have higher..interest rates and this would allow the portfolio's interest earnings to increase thereby potentially providing a budgetary benefit? • Or would he/she recommend a hybrid approach where there is a "laddered portfolio" that spreads maturities over a 5 year period enabling the City to take advantage of increasing interest rates over time as investments mature? Page 2 of 2 _.......... .... . .._..._. ... _......................................-....... ._.. .. ... .. Surfnet-Boards&Commission Application Page 2 of 2 operating over 100 facilities nation-wide-Full P&L responsibility including forecasting,budgeting and coaching staff in attaining monthly targets-Directed and motivate operations and administrative staff of over 700 employees nation-wide-Created inventory management procedures throughout retail chains reducing cost of sales by 6%annually-Introduced new cost control measures reducing operating and G&A overhead by$1 million annually-increased new-customer base by over 15'%by implementing sales and marketing programs focused on building brand awareness and customer loyalty SEARS,ROEBUCK&COMPANY(2003-2004) DISTRICT OPERATIONS MANAGER SOUTHERN.CALIFORNIA-Managed local retail product and service operations for Fortune 500 retailer providing customer satisfaction to over 300;000 customers per year with .combined annual revenues of over$20 mtAion-Directed and developed district management team of 15 direct reports to drive the growth of revenue,ensure cost reduction and guarantee customer satisfaction-Revamped and standardized operational controls throughout district reducinaretall shrink by 5%,increasing incremental service revenue over 20%and increasing overall customer service ratings-Instituted cost rationalization . program yielding the region an annual savings of over$250,000 SHELL OIL PRODUCTS,U.S.(1996—2003) SALES CONSULTANT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA-Impkanented.re-branding and directed sales and marketing . strategies for over 40 franchise and company-operated Texaco and Shell convenience storefgas station facilities while overseeing all related administrative and support responsibilities including full P&L responsibility-Planned and coordinated the opening of new QSR&retail facilities throughout Southern California-Oversaw the selection,training and development of new franchisees and corporate staff 0red, managed,coached and counseled staff of up to 12 direct reports and 150'employees ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations governing staffing and selection CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH(1989-1996) PARKING.CONTROL OFFICER HUNTINGTON BEACH-Under minimal supervision enforced local and state parking and vehicle code regulations within the City of Huntington Beach Developed and participated in scofflaw task force for the recovery of unpaid parking citation fees through vehicular impound-Assisted in training new employees Special Knowledge or Skill In addition to being fluent in most Microsoft Office programs,I possess basic Spanish skills Civic and/or Service Memberships Parish Council Member-St.Vincent de Paul Catholic Church,Huntington Beach Civic Interests My family and I are avid users of the recreation centers around town,especially the pool at the city gymnasium. I am also an active supporter of the Huntington Beach Playhouse at the city library. Availability(Must be available for meetings) My schedule is very flexible and I would ensure there would be no conflicts with my work'duties including meetings. How Will You Qualifications Best Serve the Needs of the Community? With over sbc years experience managing the finances of businesses and over 14-years of leadership experience in the business community I believe that my professional background makes me a strong candidate for this role.In addition,I earned my MBA from the University of California and currently run a consulting, practice for small business owners.I worked for the City of Huntington Beach for nearly seven years,first as a Student Worker and then as a Parking Control Officer,so I understand the infrastructure of the city government Finally,as a proud native resident,i am very.familiar with the community and believe that I would be able to apply my knowledge,skills and education to successfully serve my fellow citizens in this role. Why Do.You Wish to Serve on a Volunteer Citizen's i3ody?• 1 have been looking for an opportunity to give back to my hometown by offering my skiffs and education in a discipline in which I am very familiar.I see this role as being the perfect opportunity to do this. http://surfnet/admin/boards commissions/application_pr'int_view.ofm?ID=645 1/13/2011 GREGORY M. BREEN UNITED OIL (2008-2009) GENERAL MANAGER Los ANGELES,CA Directed and motivated senior level management team of 13 direct reports for a premier retail fuel/convenience store operator with over 115 locations and annual revenues exceeding$1 billion Providing guidance to ownership, developed short and long-term business goals designed to secure the company's position as best in the industry while increasing operational efficiencies and profitability • Established performance benchmarks for all departments while working with ownership and senior ..- management to successfully meet designated financial and operational targets • While working with retail operations, IT and accounting departments oversaw development and implementation of store level and back office reporting systems, including POS scanning and a centralized retail price book Maintained direct oversight of category development,vendor relations and price book management Oversaw successful acquisition of a$25 million gas station/convenience store chain TmAROM,INC./BERRY HINCKLEY INDUSTRIES (2004-2008) SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF RETAIL OPERATIONS/GENERAL MANAGER REND,NV • Led operations of$150 million gas station,convenience store,.quick lube and car wash chain operating over 100 facilities nation-wide • Full P&L responsibility including forecasting,budgeting and coaching staff in attaining monthly targets • Directed and motivate operations and administrative staff of over 700.employees.nation-wide • Created inventory management procedures throughout retail chains reducing cost of sales by 5%annually • Introduced new cost control measures reducing operating and G&A overhead by$1 million annually • Increased new-customer base by over-15%-by-implementing sales and marketing programs focused on building brand awareness and customer loyalty SEARS,ROEBUCK&COMPANY (2003-.2004) DISTRICT OPERATIONS MANAGER SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA • Managed local retail product and service operations for Fortune 500 retailer providing customer satisfaction to over 300,000 customers per year with combined annual revenues of over$20 million • Directed and developed district management team of 15 direct reports to drive the growth of revenue, ensure cost reduction and guarantee.customer satisfaction • Revamped and standardized operational controls throughout district, reducing retail.shrink by 5%, increasing incremental service revenue over 20%and increasing overall customer service ratings • Instituted cost rationalization program yielding the region an annual savings of over$250,000 SHELL OIL PRODUCTS,_U.S.. ._ - -. - _-- (Il926-2003) SALES CONSULTANT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA • Implemented re-branding and directed sales and marketing strategies for over 40 franchise and company-operated Texaco and Shell convenience store/gas station facilities while overseeing all related administrative and support responsibilities including full P&L responsibility • Planned and coordinated the opening of new QSR&retail facilities throughout Southern California • Oversaw the selection,training and development of new franchisees and corporate staff • Hired, managed, coached and counseled staff of up to 12 direct reports and 150 employees ensuring compliance with all laws and regulations governing staffing and selection 2 .. GREGORY M. BREEN CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH (1989-1996 PARKING CONTROL OFFICER/STUDENT WORKER HUNTINGTON BEACH,CA • Under minimal supervision enforced local and state parking and vehicle code regulations within the City of Huntington Beach • Developed and participated in scofflaw task force for the recovery of unpaid parking citation fees through vehicular impound • Assisted in training new employees - - • Represented the City of Huntington Beach in court to provide supporting evidence and testimony in cases where citations wete.contested • Under.minimal supervision assisted Police personnel as a Student Worker assigned to the Radio and Communications Department 3 1 Surfnet-Boards&Commission Application Page 2 of 2 see above Availability(Must be available for meetings) available How Will You Qualifleations Best Serve the Needs of the Community? I have worked well In many enviomments and have extensive experience in accounting and finance. Why Do You Wish to Serve on a Volunteer Citizen's Body? yes http://surfnettadmin/boards commissions/application_print view.ofm?ID=654 1/26/2011 Education and Certifications BA in Business,emphasis in Accounting 1978—Cal State University Fullerton CMA certificate,Inactive/Retired CPA certificate Civic Interests Volunteer for the American Red Cross,Blood Services Election Day poll worker PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: (continued) with investment and banking communities.Researched/implemented new cost-effective banking processes.Developed new investment policy&investment accounting procedures.Administered the City's Deferred Compensation programs.Recommend investment strategy for the City's debt financing. Department budget administration,monitoring,and.expenditure approval. The Orange County Treasurer,Chief investment Officer,2-1990 thru 9-2006 Directed treasurer's Investment Division,including planning,organizing,and reviewing-current/future. _ operations;recognizing/recommending/developing new policies and procedures.Create and mentor effective team for achieving department goals and objectives.Developed/controlled/monitored the County's cash position with accurate cash forecasting and safe,liquid and prudent investments.Created and directed a$6+billion,fixed-income portfolio earning 2 AAA credit ratings.Participated in bond/debt Issuance programs and directed trustees on appropriate investments.Developed automated processes for investment strategies,revenue projections,and economic analysis.Implemented/improved financial processes&/or procedures with emphasis on accuracy and compliance.Instituted a straight-through- processing system connecting financial reporting,cash operations,and investment purchases.Wrote reports and made presentations on financial,economic and Investment data to executive committees and the Board of Supervisors.Prepared and reviewed annual and five-year business plan.Participated on several executive and oversight committees.Researched and interpreted California Government Code for incorporation Into investment policy and ultimate compliance of portfolio. SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE OR SKILLS: I have special knowledge and skills: administering municipal treasury departments,directing investment and banking activities,collecting money receivables,developing cash flow forecasts,managing financial reporting,projecting revenue streams,managing debt programs,researching and analyzing California government code. CIVIC AND/OR SERVICE MEMBERSHIPS: N/A CIVIC INTERESTS: N/A AVAILABILITY: I am available immediately HOW WILL YOUR KNOWLEDGE BEST SERVE THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY: The City of Huntington Beach should have a treasury professional with significant public sector experience as their City Treasurer.I'm just that person. For almost 20.years,i have held positions of increasing responsibility in the management of treasury operations within the public sector. My responsibilities have included: directing investment activities,managing cash collections,developing cash flow forecasts,managing financial reporting operations,projecting revenue streams,managing debt.programs,making credit agencies presentations,and coordinating internal audits. I was involved in successfully restructuring the Orange County Treasurer's office,wrote the award.winning Investment policy statement,and modified several sections of California Government Code. HOW WILL YOUR KNOWLEDGE BEST SERVE THE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY:(continued) My experience,proven leadership skills,achievements in conservative investing,and knowledge of government code allowed me to take over,with just a minutes notice,an existing Treasurer's Office for the City of Redlands. I'm ready and able to do that for the City and residents of Huntington Beach. WHY DO YOU WISH TO SERVE ON A VOLUNTEER CITIZEN'S BODY? N/A January 31,2011 Mr.Fred Wilson,City Manager City of Huntington Beach 2000 Main Street,P.O.Box 190 Huntington Beach,CA 92648 Re:City Treasurer Dear Mr.Wilson: Please accept this Letter along with my application and resume in consideration for the City Treasurer position. For more than 15 years, I have held positions of increasing responsibility in the management of treasury operations within the government sector. My responsibilities have included: directing investment operations,developing cash flow forecasts,managing debt programs,making credit agencies presentations,and coordinating internal audits.I was involved in successfully restructuring the Orange County Treasurer's office,wrote the award winning investment policy statement,and modified several sections of California Government Code relating to investments. At this stage of my career,the part-time City Treasurer positron would be perfect for me.My experience and background has provided me with the knowledge and skills that,I believe,the City of Huntington Beach should have in a City Treasurer. It would be my pleasure to meet and discuss this position with you in the near future. Sincere , ZIM aAl.cobson Attachments JUDITH A, JACOBSON CAREER BACKGROUND(CONTINUED) oe ee0 * Createda centralized cash management department to consolidate the financial operation of the hanker nation-wide srrbsidiarim * Developed end Jmplemented newrevenae&disbursement monitoring and riepotting systenL * Developed lnvestmentstiategy and mateda$1 hiffion lnvestmentportfolio. IN 0 e eo EDl/C477ON O College for Financial Planning, CFP®certificate program 0 California state University,Fullerton BA, Business/Finance-GPA-3.6 G Orange Coast College,Costa Mesa AA, Business 49 Seminars and Conferences. lnm47w ts/Management/Flnance/A000unfi VC=nomic Page 2 of 2 E net-Boards&Commission Application Page 2 of 2 Planned,implemented and set up clients'new accounting systems and/or systems conversion;-Managed general ledger,accounts payable,accounts receivable,bank reconciliation,company's risks,and human resources functions;-Managed all aspects of business developments such as advertising,target marketing, referrals,pricing strategy;-Developed,trained,and mentored one accountant.Senior Accountant-Canadian Consulate General(January 1999-September 2001)•Assisted the Comptroller with budget planning and administering;-Reconciled bank statements;-Reviewed&maintained contracts;-Provided accounting and budget support to other Program Managers;-Reviewed and approved travel expenses daims according to travel directives;-Communicated operating results to both accounting and non-accounting managements;- Administered the Consulate's bank account and petty cash;•Managed foreign exchange rate and policies; Prepared and analyzed monthly budget variances;-Prepared and administered month-end and fiscal year-end closings;-Reviewed operating procedures to ensure adequacy of internal controls;•Trained&mentored one junior accountant;-Reviewed and/or prepared payroll,AP,special revenue fund,journal entries,and-adjusting journal entries.Cost&AP Accountant-Addison Wesley Longman(July 1998-December 1998)•Prepared and allocated unit costs to inventories,and research cost issues as needed;-Performed journal entries and adjusting journal entries for unit costs;-Coded invoices with appropriate GL accounts forAP department; Verified invoice items with receiving records in warehouse database.Cost/Finandal Analyst-Dade Behring (June 1997-July 1998)-Analyzed variances in production costs;-Prepared month-end,quarter-end,and year- end closings;-Prepared journal entries and adjusting dosing journal entries,depreciation and amortization schedules;-Prepared monthly,quarterly,and yearly analysis reports for senior managements.Registered Representative-WMA Securities,Inc.(September 1996=February 1999)•Performed oral sates presentation in an individual setting as well as in a group setting;-Originated residential/commercial mortgages,and SBA loans;-Held securities license Series 6&63,Life/Health/Property&Casualty insurance license. Special Knowiedge or Skill Budgeting,financial forecast and projections,variance analysis,tax compliance and research,investment analysis. Civic and/or Service Memberships n/a Civic Interests Help kids and strengthen the community. Availability(Must be available for meetings) Extremely flexible. How Will You Qualifications Best Serve the Needs of the Community? I will listen for the variable needs of the community and use my experience and skills and analyze these newly acquired knowledge and develop a plan suitable to the current needs of the community and hopefully flexible enough to adapt to the community's future needs as well. Why Do You Wish to Serve on a Volunteer Citizen's Body? n/a http://surfnettadmin/boards commissions/application_print view.efin?ID=657 1/3U2011 Billy Vu, CPA, MBA, MST Page—2 • Planned, implemented and set up clients'new accounting systems and/or systems conversion; • Managed general ledger,accounts payable,accounts receivable, bank reconciliation, company's risks,and human resources functions; • Managed all aspects of business developments such as advertising,target marketing, referrals, pricing strategy; • Developed,trained,and mentored one accountant Senior Accountant-Canadian Consulate General(January 1999-September 2001) 0 Assisted the Comptroller with budget planning and administering; 0 Reconciled bank statements; • Reviewed&maintained contracts;- • Provided accounting and budget support to other Program Managers; . 0 Reviewed and approved travel expenses claims according to travel directives; • Communicated operating results to both accounting and non-accounting managements; • Administered the Consulate's.bank account and petty cash; - - a Managed foreign exchange rate and.policies; • Prepared and analyzed monthly budget variances; • Prepared and administered month-end and fiscal year-end closings; .• Reviewed operating procedures.to ensure.adequacy of internal controls; - - • Trained&mentored one junior accountant; • Reviewed and/or prepared payroll,AP,special revenue fund,journal entries,and adjusting journal entries. Cost&AP Accountant.Addison Wesley Longman(July 1998-December 1998) • Prepared and allocated unit costs to inventories,and research cost issues as needed; • Verified invoice items with receiving records in warehouse database. CostlFinancial Analyst-Dade Behring(June 1997-July 1998) • Analyzed variances in production costs; • Prepared month-end,quarter-end,and year-end closings; • Prepared journal entries and adjusting closing journal entries,depreciation and amortization schedules; Prepared monthly,quarterly,and yearly analysis reports for senior managements. Registered•Representative-WMA Securities,Inc.(September 1996-February 1999) • Held securities license Series 6&63,Lite/Health/Property&Casualty insurance license. EDUCATION • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with triple concentrations In Accounting, Finance,and Marketing, University of Massachusetts, 1997. • Master of Business Administration in Accounting, University of Phoenix,2004. + Master of Science in Taxation,Washington School of Law,2005. • Executive Graduate Certificate in Atxounting—Taxation Emphasis, Strayer University,2005. COMPUTER SKILLS Operating Systems: Windows 95,98,NT,2000,XP,Vista&2000 Small Business Server, MAC Software: SAP, M-1,JD Edwards,ACCPAC, Ultra Tax,ATX, Lacerte,CCH, RIA, Kleinrock, Creative Solutions,AccTrk21, Peachtree,QuickBooks, Excel(Advanced User), PowerPoint,Word, Outlook, Publisher. LICENSE • Certified Public Accountant LANGUAGES • Fluency in English and Vietnamese; light reading knowledge of French. References Available Upon Request