CPFO Spotlight: Justin Smith
Justin Smith, CPA, CPFO, is the Director of Finance for the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority in Florida.
1. Why did you want to become a CPFO?
I value education and professional development. Earning the CPFO designation has been very important to me as I continue my career in public finance and it will allow me to serve better serve the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority as the Director of Finance.
2. What did you learn going through the process?
Going through the process I have become much more familiar with GFOA best practices in several different areas. I have already utilized some of the resources to gain efficiencies in our daily operations and updated policies and procedures to stay in alignment with the GFOA best practices.
3. How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession?
Becoming a CPFO will provide me additional resources to stay on top of the ever changing rules and regulations in Government Finance. I’m looking forward to participating in different programs to satisfy the ongoing requirement for GFOA engagement credits.
4. What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO?
If you are planning to make a career in government finance I would 100% recommend working towards becoming a CPFO. While it is a long process to study for and pass the seven exams, it will be worth it in the long run!