Oversees the accounting and financial operations of a unit, department or agency. Recommends and implements accounting policies and procedures in accordance with government regulations. Provides leadership to subordinate managers and staff. Analyzes financial statistics and other accounting data. Coordinates auditing operations with departmental accounting, budgetary, administrative support, and programmatic function to support the department's mission. Develops and directs a comprehensive accounting program which integrates Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards, Generally Accepted Governmental Auditing Standards (GAGAS), statutory accounting requirements, and departmental fiscal policies and procedures.. Directs operational analyses of accounting systems, subsystems and/or procedures. Interviews, hires, directs, trains, evaluates the performance of, and when necessary, disciplines and discharges accounting/financial employees. Manages human resources and directs administrative activities for accounting/financial employees. Plans and directs in-depth financial audits and investigations. Provides professional guidance and assistance in the solution of complex accounting and financial problems. Represents the financial interests of the State in accounting-related interactions/negotiations with other parties, such as banks, vendors and external auditors