Allen Weeks, Chief Accountant for the City of Winter Haven, obtained the designation of Certified Government Finance Officer (CGFO) in January. This designation is awarded by the Florida Government Finance Officers Association.

“We are very proud of Allen. This is not an easy certification to achieve.” says Cal Bowen, Chief Financial Officer for the City of Winter Haven.

By achieving the GFOA certification, Allen has demonstrated that he has knowledge and is proficient in the five major areas of governmental finance: accounting and financial reporting, debt administration, financial administration, and budgeting and treasury management.

Allen Weeks, Chief Accountant for the City of Winter Haven.

When asked what the certification means, Allen said, “I feel the GFOA certification provides assurance to Management, the Commission, and more importantly the Citizens of Winter Haven that the Finance department is trained and qualified to accurately account for the City’s finances.”

The CGFO program encourages a level of knowledge and professionalism in the field of government finance. It represents a commitment to professional development and professional competence for practicing governmental finance officers. Currently there are 507 individuals who have earned and maintain this prestigious certification.

“Allen joined our team in 2020 and has been a great addition,” says City Manager Mike Herr. “This certification is another example of his pursuit of excellence in government finance.”