In the September issue of Dollars & Sense Perspective GFOABC and CivicInfo BC initiated a survey on Finance Department staffing in local governments across BC. The results revealed a host of challenges and intriguing trends. The survey had a robust 64 percent response rate, and sheds light on the staffing landscape - providing valuable insights for decision-makers.

One notable finding is that 34 per cent reported being understaffed compared to their budgeted full-time equivalents (FTEs). The survey reveals hiring and retaining staff in finance departments present multifaceted challenges. These factors contribute to the complexity of attracting and keeping qualified finance professionals. The graph below shows the notable challenges faced by local governments. In the “Other” category respondents emphasized two main themes: the lack of a flexible working environment and the scarcity of housing.

The survey also asked about length of service in local government finance departments. Notably, 57.85 per cent of local governments report at least one staff person with a tenure of one year or less, while 60.33 per cent report at least one staff person with a tenure of one year to less than three years. This suggests a dynamic employment landscape with turnover and potential challenges in retaining experienced staff.

The survey paints a vivid picture of the challenges and trends in finance department staffing across BC’s local governments. As municipalities navigate these complexities, the data offers valuable benchmarks and insights for effective workforce management and strategic planning in the finance sector. The need for flexibility, competitive housing options, and proactive succession planning are highlighted as critical areas of attention in ensuring stable and competent financial operations in the years to come. 

For detailed results for this question or any past question, please contact surveys@civicinfo.bc.ca.

Thank you to all who participated in this questionnaire. The online Forum is a great place to continue the conversation. 

If you would like to contribute topics for upcoming questions, please contact office@gfoabc.ca or (250) 382-6871.