Clayton Appoints New Director of Finance and Administration

October 19, 2011

Clayton’s City Manager Craig Owens announced the appointment of Janet Watson as the city’s new Director of Finance and Administration effective November 21, 2011.  Director of Finance and Administration is a new title which combines responsibilities that include overseeing all city fiscal matters and providing direction for the IT and Human Resources Departments.

“I am excited to bring my experience to the management team of Clayton and look forward to serving this unique community,” said Ms. Watson.        

Before coming to Clayton, she served as Deputy City Manager for the City of University City, Missouri for five years and as Assistant City Manager / Director of Finance and Administration in Webster Groves for eleven years. Her responsibilities included preparing University City’s annual $48 million budget and implementing five-year financial projections to assist with future planning. She assisted with organization-wide management, worked closely with the City Manager on administrative issues and special projects and managed the Information Technology and Human Resources Departments. Her responsibilities have included insurance and benefits administration, hiring, promotions and disciplines, maintenance of pay plans, and revision and interpretation of the personnel policies.
 
Ms. Watson received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with emphasis in Accounting and Finance from Columbia College in Columbia, Missouri and Masters in Public Policy Administration with emphasis in Local Government Management from the University of Missouri – St. Louis. She is a Certified Public Accountant and is an International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager.

“Janet’s extensive background in budget preparation and expertise in directing finances and operations will ensure that Clayton maintains its strong foundation of sound financial management,” said City Manager Owens. “I feel very fortunate to be able to bring Janet’s extensive experience and enthusiasm to our leadership team.”

Ms. Watson was selected to fill the Director of Finance and Administration position following a thorough and competitive search of talented applicants from throughout the mid-west. She will succeed former Finance Director Don Yucuis.