Couch selects Laura Johnson as new Finance Director

(August 29, 2007) - City Manager Jim Couch has chosen 27-year employee Laura Johnson to be the City’s Finance Director.  Johnson has served as the Assistant Finance Director since 1989 and has been in the City’s Finance department for 23 years.

“Laura has had hands-on experience in all key areas of the Finance Department.  Her experience and knowledge of City operations, our financial systems and long range goals make her well suited for this position,” Couch said.

Johnson began her City career in 1979 as an Administrative Specialist in the Public Services Department.  She has served as Budget Director, interim Risk Manager and interim Purchasing Agent. 

For the past two years she has lead City departments through a strategic planning and performance management initiative, Leading for Results, to become more customer-focused and results oriented.

“This is such an exciting time to be in City government.  I am honored to have the opportunity to direct the City’s financial operations,” Johnson said.

Johnson also managed the citywide implementation of the City’s integrated financial and human resources software systems, PeopleSoft and Kronos. 

 “In addition to her professional qualifications, she has the integrity and proven leadership I look for in my executive team,” Couch said.

Johnson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Dayton (Ohio).  She is a member of the Government Finance Officers Association and the International City/County Managers Association. 

She and her husband Kenneth live in Oklahoma City with their son Patrick.  She also has two grown sons, Andrew Rundell and Stephen Rundell.