In a landmark decision, Farishta Ahrary has been named as the new City Auditor of Sacramento, heralding a new chapter as the first woman to hold this position in the city's history. Ahrary, who got her start in the City Auditor's office in 2013, has been functioning as the Interim City Auditor since early this year and boasts more than ten years of auditing experience, according to Sacramento City Express.
The Sacramento City Council, which voted to approve Ahrary's appointment, echoed their confidence in her abilities to guide the city with strong financial stewardship. Mayor Darrell Steinberg, was particularly supportive, stating, "Unanimously selected by all the members, Farishta has earned our collective confidence and support," according to a statement obtained by Sacramento City Express. He further commended her capabilities to be an invaluable asset to Sacramento.
Ahrary comes to the position with an extensive list of accolades, including awards from the Association of Local Government Auditors. She holds multiple certifications, making her adept in various facets of auditing, such as being a certified public accountant, a certified fraud examiner, and a certified project management professional. Beyond her official qualifications, her leadership within the auditing arena is evident through her past role as president of the Golden State Chapter of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and her current involvement on the Association of Local Government Auditors Long Term Planning Committee, as per Sacramento City Express.
Her experience is not solely governmental; prior to joining the city, she worked at a local CPA firm where she audited school districts throughout Northern California, as mentioned by the Sacramento City Express. Now as City Auditor, her role will be pivotal in assessing the City's operations, "I am excited to continue serving the city of Sacramento and positioning the Office as a trusted advisor to provide both management and the City Council with thorough, insightful analysis that strengthens our City’s operations and supports informed decision-making," Ahrary said, reflecting her forward-looking vision for the Office.
Ahrary's personal journey, began when she emigrated from Afghanistan along with her family to the Sacramento area in 1992, adds another dimension to her professional achievements. She laid her academic foundation receiving a Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California, Davis. When not immersed in numbers and financial reports, Ahrary is known to enjoy simpler pleasures, like baking and engaging in board games with her husband and their twin daughters.
