Nicole Cross has been named Finance Director of Newton County

According to a press release by county Public Information Officer Bryan Fazio, Cross has been serving in the position on an interim basis since Sept 30, 2016.  In that capacity, she “has been responsible for all aspects of Newton County finances, including the budget process,” according to the release.

“I am pleased to name Nicole Cross our Finance Director,” County Manager Lloyd Kerr said in the release. “She has done an outstanding job as Interim Director and Chief Accounting Officer and we expect that to continue.”

According to the release, Cross is a certified public accountant who was originally hired in August 2014 as the county’s Chief Accounting Officer.  In that role, she was responsible for budget transfers and amendments, financial statements and budget analysis among other responsibilities. She also reportedly led a team in the areas of grants, accounts receivable, payroll, accounts payable and purchasing.

The county reportedly received a number of applications for the position.

“Of the qualified applicants who interviewed for the position, Cross was the only candidate to be considered a finalist,” according to the release.

Cross’s appointment is effective Feb. 22, pending approval by the Board of Commissioners (BOC) at its Feb. 21 meeting. The public meeting will be held at the Newton County Historic Courthouse at 7 p.m.