LAPLACE — With more than 10 years of experience in finance, newly appointed St. John the Baptist Parish Chief Financial Officer Robert Figuero Jr. is eager to work for a community near to his heart.

“St. John Parish is home to my family and me, so I embrace the opportunity to serve the people of this great parish, not to mention my family, friends and neighbors,” Figuero said. “This is the Parish that I love and I want the best for.”

Prior experience directing budget control, implementation of software and staff development as CFO at ABBA Industries International LLC in Kenner has equipped the LaPlace native with the tools necessary to grow and manage a finance department.

Figuero’s resume also includes 12 years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps, a bachelor of arts degree in organizational information technology with a minor in website development from Tulane University and a master of Business Administration from the University of New Orleans.

Government is a new venture for him, and he feels prepared to take on responsibilities that come along with the position.

“I’m looking forward to applying this knowledge and expertise to the governmental sector and ultimately benefit the residents,” Figuero said.

As CFO, his responsibilities include preparing the annual Parish budget, maintaining records of the Parish’s fixed assets, creating and maintaining financial policies, preparing financial reports, assisting auditors, balancing cash accounts and overseeing inter-fund transfers.

Figuero now heads all financial affairs of St. John the Baptist Parish with a goal of strengthening the Parish’s position with a healthy budget, saving taxpayers dollars and promoting transparency in operations.

Figuero said the level of professionalism and work ethic in the Finance Department set by his predecessors is commendable. He plans to continue making improvements within the department and roll out a new financial system in 2018 to streamline the process.

Parish President Natalie Robottom introduced Figuero as CFO during a recent Parish Council meeting.

According to Robottom, Figuero’s background brings a wealth of knowledge to the finance department to benefit residents and business owners.

Figuero replaces CFO Ross Gonzales, who recently took another job closer to home.