Dec. 12—ROCHESTER — Brian Anderson has been named Rochester's new finance director, following a national search.

He fills the position left vacant since the June

retirement of longtime director Dale Martinson,

who served the city for almost 30 years.

"We are excited to welcome Brian to the city team and appreciate the skills, expertise and passion he will bring to the organization," City Administrator Alison Zelms said in a statement announcing the appointment Tuesday. "Brian's career represents a longtime professional commitment to local government service in communities across our state, and I welcome that same dedication as he joins the City of Rochester and contributes to the organizational vision of delivering service as a vibrant, compassionate, innovative team."

Anderson will start in the role in early January 2024.

He most recently served as the Goodhue County auditor/treasurer and finance director for five years. Prior to his work in Goodhue County, he was the Faribault city administrator for four years, the Newport, Minnesota, city administrator for four years, and the assistant to the city administrator in Lakeville, Minnesota, for six years.

"I would like to thank the city organization for this exciting opportunity to be a member of a dynamic team in such a highly respected community," Anderson said of his planned move to Rochester. "I look forward to working with all city teammates, residents, organizations and businesses in accomplishing the organization's strategic priorities and helping Rochester continue to meet the expectations of such a thriving and diverse community."

Anderson's hire results from the city's third recruitment effort to fill the position. The delay resulted in the city

hiring Abdo Financial Solutions to fill some finance director duties.

The director of finance serves as the chief fiscal officer and treasurer for the city. The position provides strategic leadership and direction for the operational activities of the Finance Department, serves in appointed positions with groups related to the city's growth and success and represents the city on financial matters.

Rochester has received a certificate of achievement for excellence in financial reporting for nearly 50 years, the longest in the state of Minnesota.