The public sector, in its quest for efficiency, must allocate its financial resources in the most productive way possible and optimize the use of public funds, while respecting the objectives of the government policies. This seminar focuses on the processes of preparing budgets and evaluating the profitability of public investments, drawing on good practices in budgetary monitoring and internal control, which are necessary conditions for good governance.

The Head Finance of a public agency is the corporate officer primarily responsible for managing the financial risks of the business or agency. This officer is also responsible for budgeting, financial planning, record-keeping, cash flow management, higher management, communicating financial performance and forecasts to the community. The title may vary, such as finance director or treasurer, from agency to agency.

Financial reporting has multiple audiences, with a responsibility to citizens, taxpayers and voters to provide transparent accountability for use of public funds (taxes). Additionally, financial reporting must provide internal guidance to program managers to maintain budgetary control and to governing city councils and boards of directors to provide adequate financial policy guidelines. This course is designed to support the role of CFO and other Finance Professionals to apply sound financial practices and add great value to the agencies they serve.