After an extensive search for a finance director including interviews with mayor Matt Larson, city administrator Bob Larson, senior staff, and all Finance Department staff, the Snoqualmie City Council confirmed Larson’s appointment of Robert Hamud to the position, with his employment to begin in early May.

Until that time, Rob Orton will continue as interim finance director.

Hamud is a financial consultant and client services manager for 50 municipal governments in Washington and California. Prior to that he held finance positions for city, county, and state governments.

Hamud will report to Bob Larson, overseeing the Finance Department and working closely to guide and support all city departments. He will lead the biennial budget process for 2019 to 2020 including financial forecasting; perform financial forecasts and cost analyses; advise on tax revenues, debt issuance, and capital projects; and work toward economic health and stability.

“We are excited to welcome Robert as Finance Director,” said Larson in a press release. “He will be an excellent addition to the city’s executive leadership team, while bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to our evolving Finance Department. We look forward to his coming on board.”

Hamud holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of Utah and a Bachelor’s Degree in Government from California State University. While employed with the City of Santa Rosa, California, he received the Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budgeting Award.