The City of Cleveland Heights has confirmed the appointment of Rodney Hairston as its new Director of Finance. Announced in a press release last Thursday and as reported by a local publication obtained by the City of Cleveland Heights, Hairston's selection was solidified during Cleveland Heights City Council's last Tuesday meeting, where Mayor Seren and the council members placed their confidence in Hairston's extensive financial management experience. Bringing insightful leadership from his time directing the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport's finances and as Chief Financial Officer for the Cuyahoga County Department of Disabilities, Hairston is tasked with guiding the city's budgetary course.
Before his new assignment, Hairston demonstrated his financial acumen while handling a substantial $11 million annual budget as Chief Financial Officer at Saint Martin de Porres High School. This role preceded a tenure that included fiscal oversight of the Cuyahoga County Department of Disabilities' impressive budget, which was reported to total approximately $294 million. Hairston, a Case Weatherhead School of Business alumnus, holds both a Bachelor of Science and a Master's in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance.
During the January 15 confirmation hearing, Hairston outlined his initial priorities for the position. "My focus coming in will be to get processes and procedures in place so that [a budget impasse] doesn’t happen again," he said. He emphasized the necessity of adhering to governmental timelines and requirements as critical measures in his new role. According to the City of Cleveland Heights, Hairston credits his diverse background with preparing him for the multifaceted fiscal demands awaiting him in Cleveland Heights.
