Ryan Kilpatrick

PORTSMOUTH — Ryan Kilpatrick is moving on from his post as finance director for the Town of Portsmouth, but not before being honored by a prominent professional association representing the U.S. and Canada.

Kilpatrick is leaving his position here to become the next finance officer for the South Kingstown School Department, Town Administrator Richard Rainer Jr. informed the Town Council on Nov. 13.

“Ryan has been a shining star within our organization, serving as both an exceptional department head and an outstanding mentor and co-worker to the entire staff,” Rainer said. “His dedication, commitment and passion for his work have been nothing short of exemplary, and we will miss him tremendously.”

The manager said the improvement in Kilpatrick’s work/life balance is one of the primary factors for his decision. “His new role will considerably shorten his daily commute, and provide other substantial benefits allowing him to enhance both his family life and professional pursuits,” Rainer said.

The town’s deputy finance director, Kayla Marsden, who’s been with the town for two years, “is well-prepared and well-positioned to take the reins to the finance department,” said Rainer, who will recommend Kilpatrick’s permanent successor at a future council meeting.

Late last month, the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to Town of Portsmouth for its annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2022.

The certificate is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management, according to GFOA, which advances excellence in government finance by providing best practices, professional development, resources, and practical research for more than 21,000 members and the communities they serve.

Because he was instrumental in the department that achieved that certificate, Kilpatrick was presented with an Award of Financial Report Achievement by GFOA.