Executive Director, Financial Operations: A Leadership Opportunity with CBP
Are you an accomplished finance executive looking to make a substantial impact on national security and economic policy? U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently recruiting for an Executive Director, Financial Operations to lead mission-critical fiscal efforts at the highest level of the agency.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead a team of approximately 300 personnel and oversee the financial health of one of the world's largest law enforcement agencies. Key duties include:
- Financial Oversight: Manage internal controls, debt management, and accounting for $100B in annual duties and fees.
- Policy Leadership: Develop financial management strategies for a 67,000-person workforce.
- Audit & Compliance: Shepard annual financial audits and drive systemic migrations to modern financial platforms.
- Strategic Stakeholder Management: Represent CBP to high-level entities such as the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the Treasury, and the GAO.
Requirements
This Senior Executive Service (SES) position requires candidates with advanced leadership and technical expertise. Applicants must possess:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen. |
| Resume | 2-page limit; must address ECQs and TQs. |
| Education | Accounting degree or related finance degree with 24 accounting credits. |
| Experience | Senior-level (GS-14/15 equivalent) financial management leadership. |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with the Senior Executive Service pay scale, ranging from $151,661 to $228,000 per year.
Benefits
CBP offers a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health and life insurance plans.
- Federal retirement pension.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Structured leadership development programs.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection, keep your resume concise. Ensure your accomplishments clearly demonstrate the five Executive Core Qualifications (Leading People, Driving Efficiency, etc.) and your technical expertise in large-scale financial management. Do not use the automated resume builder; upload a custom 2-page document.
Serving as the Executive Director of Financial Operations at CBP is more than just a job; it is a service to the American public. If you are prepared to manage the complexities of a $100 billion financial portfolio, we encourage you to review the full details and apply today.
Why This Executive Director, Financial Operations Job Matters
Step into a pivotal leadership role where you will safeguard our nation's economic interests and oversee a multi-billion dollar financial enterprise at the Department of Homeland Security.
Executive Director, Financial Operations Job Overview
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is seeking an elite executive to join the Office of Finance as the Executive Director, Financial Operations. This senior-level position offers a unique opportunity to influence national fiscal policy, manage complex accounting systems for a massive workforce, and ensure the integrity of over $100 billion in annual trade revenue. Based in either Washington, D.C., or Indianapolis, IN, the successful candidate will drive high-level strategy and operational excellence within the Senior Executive Service.
Requirements for Executive Director, Financial Operations
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a high-level security clearance.
- Must be able to successfully pass pre-employment and random drug testing.
- Submission of a 2-page maximum resume addressing five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Technical Qualifications (TQs).
- Must undergo a 1-year supervisory probationary period if not already completed.
- Compliance with financial disclosure requirements (OGE-278e).
- Registration with the Selective Service System if applicable.
Preferred Qualifications for Executive Director, Financial Operations
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or certification.
- Proven track record of managing large-scale, complex government or private sector financial operations.
- Extensive experience in cost accounting, fiscal policy development, and payroll management for large organizations (67,000+ employees).
- Experience in leading organizational change and driving process improvements through technology.
- Demonstrated ability to foster high-accountability cultures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement pension plans
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with matching contributions
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Potential relocation expense coverage
- ✓Opportunities for professional leadership development
💡 How to Apply Executive Director, Financial Operations Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Executive Director, Financial Operations Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account if you do not have one.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
- Explicitly address the five ECQs and the specific TQs within the 2-page document.
- Gather supporting documents such as SF-50s, transcripts, and CPA certificates.
- Complete the online application via the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your application status on your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; it is not recommended for this specific role.
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit; excess pages will not be reviewed.
- Annotate your TQ achievements directly in your resume in parentheses.
- Focus on results: use specific examples of your leadership in managing budgets, audits, and large workforces.
- Proofread your application to ensure all required supporting documents, such as your SF-50, are included.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the resume limit for this position?
Your resume must not exceed 2 pages. Any material beyond this limit will not be considered.
Do I need to submit a separate narrative for the ECQs?
No, separate narrative statements are not accepted. You must integrate the ECQs and TQs directly into your 2-page resume.
Is relocation assistance available?
CBP may choose to pay relocation expenses in accordance with Federal Travel Regulations.
What if I have a CPA certificate?
It is highly encouraged to submit copies of your CPA or CIA certificates, as these are viewed favorably for this accounting-heavy role.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this is a critical-sensitive position requiring a security clearance as a condition of employment.
Job from Customs And Border Protection
As a cornerstone of the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) serves as the frontline of the nation. With a global workforce of over 60,000 employees, CBP facilitates trade and travel while ensuring the security of our borders. The Office of Finance provides the fiscal backbone that makes these operations possible, managing budgets, audits, and multi-billion dollar revenue streams that keep the American economy moving.