Aileen Amaral-Costa, CPA

Chief Financial Officer, Orange County Government

Professional Overview
Aileen Amaral-Costa is an accomplished finance executive with over 20 years of experience in the public sector. As the Chief Financial Officer for Orange County Government, she oversees the strategic financial management of a $4.5 billion budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and supporting the delivery of essential public services.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the Chief Financial Officer for Orange County Government, Aileen is responsible for leading the finance and accounting functions, including financial reporting, budgeting, cash management, and internal controls. She has played a pivotal role in maintaining the county's strong financial position, earning it a AAA credit rating from all three major rating agencies. Under her leadership, the finance team has implemented innovative cost-saving initiatives, resulting in over $10 million in annual savings.

Career Progression
Aileen has steadily advanced through the ranks of Orange County Government's finance department, starting as a Senior Accountant and progressing to increasingly senior roles, including Finance Manager and Assistant Finance Manager. Her demonstrated expertise in public sector finance, coupled with her strong leadership skills, have been instrumental in her rise to the Chief Financial Officer position.

Academic Background
Aileen holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Central Florida and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). She has also completed executive leadership programs at the Harvard Kennedy School and the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, further enhancing her strategic and managerial capabilities.

Areas of Expertise

• Public sector finance and accounting

• Financial reporting and analysis

• Budgeting and resource allocation

• Internal controls and risk management

• Debt financing and treasury management

• Strategic planning and performance management

Professional Impact
As the Chief Financial Officer, Aileen has played a key role in guiding Orange County Government through challenging economic conditions, ensuring the continuity of essential services and the prudent management of taxpayer funds. Her leadership has been recognized through numerous awards, including the prestigious Government Finance Officers Association's Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.

Conclusion
Aileen Amaral-Costa is a seasoned finance executive with a proven track record of driving financial excellence in the public sector. Her strategic vision, technical expertise, and collaborative leadership style make her a valuable asset to Orange County Government, positioning the organization for continued financial stability and growth.