After a nationwide search we are happy to announce the City of Pasadena’s appointment of Matthew E. Hawkesworth as their new Finance Director. He will begin his new role on October 5, 2015.
With over 20 years in local government service, 14 of those years fulfilling roles in the city manager’s office. Matt currently serves as the Assistant City Manager in the City of Rosemead, California. In his own words, he described his commitment to public service, “Throughout my career in local government, it has been my goal to serve the citizens of each community with a high level of service. This has been accomplished by not only offering excellent customer service, but through building a financially stable community.”
Indeed, Matt’s accomplishments are significant. He was instrumental in reducing Rosemead’s unfunded OPEB liabilities by approximately $3.5 million, developing the city’s first strategic plan and incorporating new financial and human resource systems that maximized efficiency and use of city resources.
“Mr. Hawkesworth brings strong managerial and financial experiences to help restore public confidence in our financial operations,” City Manager Beck said. “His experience overseeing departments and personnel at various levels will add to our existing Executive Leadership Team.”
The recruitment was led by Teri Black who added, “Given the complexity of challenges associated with this job, Matt brings just the right leadership style, attitude, fiscal acumen and uncompromising integrity needed to be successful. It’s a rare situation that required a unique set of skills and Matt is just the right person. Plus, the fact that he loves Pasadena as much as we do brings added value because it really is a special community!”
Pasadena’s new Finance Director earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and political science from the University of La Verne. In addition, Matt has completed numerous advanced courses in finance and accounting through the Government Finance Officers Association and is a graduate of the Claremont McKenna College Kravis Leadership Institute’s Leadership Academy.
