Ashley McGowen

About Ashley McGowen

Finance Professional | Focused on Continuous Improvement | Problem SolverWelcome! I’m a finance professional with nearly a decade of experience in public sector accounting and leadership. As Controller at CIRSA (Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Agency), I oversee financial reporting, payroll/AR/AP, and other financial operations with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration.My career has been shaped by a commitment to public service. I take pride in supporting organizations that strengthen local communities and in helping teams deliver transparent, reliable financial information that drives better decisions.Before joining CIRSA, I held progressive leadership roles with the City of Grand Junction, including Deputy Finance Director, Controller, and Finance Supervisor. I also hold a Master of Science in Accounting from Boise State University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Montana State University–Billings.I\'m energized by challenges and dedicated to driving innovation and efficiency. Let’s connect!

Experience

1. Controller

   CIRSA (Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Agency)

   Sep 2024 — Present

   Coordinates Finance Department activities such as financial reporting, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.• Provides guidance, mentorship, and training to finance staff members.• Reviews and approves the semi-monthly processing of payroll.• Monitors and evaluates efficiency and effectiveness of procedures to include identifying and implementing improvements.• Reviews financial statements, reports, records, and reconciliation reports ensuring appropriate documentation and that policies and procedures are maintained.• Reviews investment transactions to ensure accuracy, appropriateness, and compliance with investment policies.• Assists with preparation of GAAP and statutory financial statements including scheduling and coordinating annual audits with CIRSA’s outside auditors.• Assists with development and administration of annual budgets including preparing expense allocations, forecasting additional funds, monitoring, and implementing adjustments.• Participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, and finance policies and procedures.• Assists with the development of rating computation process of underwriting to include accumulating rating data and computing rates.• Performs a variety of financial activities to include creating and maintaining fund balance records for each year; assisting in loss projection process; and conducting cost/ benefit analyses for insurance coverage.

Education

• Montana State University-Billings

  Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), Accounting

  2012 — 2015

• Grand Valley Leadership Academy

  Leadership

  2019 — 2019

• Montana State University-Bozeman

  General Studies

  2011 — 2012

• Kingston University

  Study Abroad Summer School, British Culture

  2014 — 2014

• Boise State University

  Master of Science - MS, Accounting

  2019 — 2021