Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland announced Thursday that Shirley Ford, Memphis’ comptroller, has been chosen to take over as the city’s Chief Financial Officer. The City Council must still approve the appointment.
The City released the following statement regarding the appointment:
Mayor Jim Strickland has chosen Shirley Ford to become the next chief financial officer for the City of Memphis. Ford currently serves as the City’s comptroller.
“Shirley has served the City well as its comptroller and is highly qualified to be our next chief financial officer,” Strickland said. “As our CFO, Shirley will make sure the City remains on solid financial ground. She’s a great addition to the team.”
Ford has served as City comptroller since 2014. She has served on the Pension Board, the Healthcare Oversight Committee, and the Pension Investment Committee.
“I am honored and humbled by the confidence this administration has placed in me to effectively serve in this role,” Ford said. “I look forward to working with our mayor, the senior leadership team, and the City Council to continue working for all Memphians.”
Ford has more than 30 years of financial, accounting, and managerial experience. She is a certified public accountant and a certified municipal finance officer as designated by the state comptroller. Ford holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Memphis.
Ford’s appointment is subject to City Council approval. If confirmed, she would immediately assume the role, which is part of Mayor Strickland’s senior leadership team.
Ford is replacing Brian Collins, who left the role in December to take on a new position in Illinois. Chief Operating Officer Doug McGowen is currently serving as interim CFO.
