Chris Forster, CPFO, CGFM
Assistant Town Manager, Town of Bluffton, SC
As a GFOA member for sixteen years, Chris Forster has served on GFOA’s Committee on Economic Development and Capital Planning and led initiatives that resulted in the town receiving the GFOA Award for Excellence for its innovative approach to reserves policy. In his role as assistant town manager for the Town of Bluffton, South Carolina, he has negotiated for economic development partnerships, securing rating upgrades, and implemented Lean process improvement initiatives. Chris has served on multiple non-profit boards and is an active member of Rotary. He completed ICMA’s Emerging Leaders Development Program and the Harvard Kennedy School’s Executive Certificate in Public Leadership. With a focus on long-term community resilience, Forster's goals encompass navigating challenges related to employment, infrastructure, and climate through strategic financial planning.