CPFO Spotlight: Jon Grover
Jon Grover, CPFO, is finance manager for the City of Hillsboro, Oregon.
Why did you want to become a CPFO?
I wanted to become a CPFO because I knew that it would round out my knowledge and experience in the core disciplines of public finance. I knew the material covered in the program would make me a more valuable contributor to my organization. The CPFO designation represents my competency in and my commitment to local government finance.
What did you learn going through the process?
Certain areas covered in the program, like Payroll and Compensation, were ones that I was not had as much experience working in. The program helped me go deeper into those areas. Additionally, in areas like Debt Management, I was able to get a more comprehensive understanding of the “why’s” behind the need for all the different players needed to issue debt.
How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession or how do you hope it will make an impact?
The knowledge I gained in Debt Management and Treasury Management has already had significant impact. My training helped guide our team towards financing nontaxable projects and cashflow taxable ones, which will likely save significant interest expense. Additionally, my Treasury Management training encouraged me to ask our banker questions, resulting in a doubling of our Checking Account’s earnings credit.
What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO?
I highly recommend the program! The time and money investment made into the program will be a sliver compared to the value it produces. Make sure to take advantage of the GFOA Community CPFO Candidates Forum. It is a great resource to help along your CPFO Journey!