Public Speaking for Finance Professionals: Turning Data into Dialogue

Public Speaking for Finance Professionals: Turning Data into Dialogue

By: Stephanie Reimer, Assistant General Manager/Chief Financial Officer, Monte Vista Water District

Any senior-level finance professional will tell you that as your career progresses, public speaking becomes an increasingly essential part of the job. We are the storytellers of our agencies’ financial health – responsible for bridging the gap between technical information and public understanding. Our role is to translate complex data into clear, meaningful messages.

When we communicate effectively, we help leaders understand the financial implications of their policy, operational, and investment decisions. Strong communication builds trust and credibility in ourselves, our teams, and, ultimately, our organizations. 

Yet for nearly 75% of the population, the thought of public speaking evokes some level of fear or anxiety. This common apprehension can lead to missed opportunities and limit personal growth. Whether you’re a confident speaker or someone who dreads taking the stage, there are tools and techniques that can strengthen your ability to connect with an audience.

On Tuesday, September 23rd, CSMFO returned to in-person training at Cucamonga Valley Water District in Rancho Cucamonga, with the workshop titled, “Public Speaking for Finance Professionals.” The session was led by Steve Yu, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer at UCLA South Bay. Steve is an accomplished public speaker who delivers workshops and keynote addresses on a variety of topics including communication, leadership, and networking.

The six-hour session provided attendees with an engaging, experiential learning experience. Workshop participants received practical tools to build confidence, clarity, and composure when speaking in public, followed by the opportunity to apply those lessons through a variety of interactive exercises.

More than 20 professionals from local cities and special districts came together to strengthen their communication skills. Some were early in their careers, others were more seasoned, but all shared a common goal: to become more effective, confident presenters. Each participant walked away with insights tailored to their own style and experience.

One attendee, Diana DeRobertis, Administrative Analyst for San Miguel Fire & Rescue, shared her biggest takeaway: “What stood out to me is that non-verbal communication – things like body language, tone, and presence – accounts for over 90% of success when speaking in public. It’s not just about what we say but how we say it that leaves the strongest impression. I am looking forward to practicing and applying these techniques in future speaking opportunities.”

Thank you to Steve Yu and Cucamonga Valley Water District for partnering with CSMFO to provide members with such a valuable professional development opportunity.

If you missed this training, you’ll have another chance to participate! The Public Speaking for Finance Professionals workshop will be offered again as a pre-conference session on Tuesday February 24, 2026, at the CSMFO Annual Conference in Palm Springs. Join us to gain the same practical tools and exercises that will boost your confidence and elevate your public speaking abilities.

Stephanie Reimer, MBA, brings more than 20 years of experience in local government finance and administration. As the Assistant General Manager/Chief Financial Officer for the Monte Vista Water District, she oversees the District’s Community Affairs, Customer Service, Executive Office, Finance, Human Resources & Risk, and Information Technology departments. Stephanie has played a key role in developing and implementing the District’s strategic plan and policy initiatives, helping to guide the organization’s long-term vision and operational excellence.

Before joining Monte Vista Water District, Stephanie served as a Senior Accountant for the City of Glendale, where she provided fiscal oversight for the Community Development and Public Works departments.

An active volunteer of the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) since 2016, Stephanie has served in numerous leadership roles, including Inland Empire Chapter Chair and Vice Chair, Vice Chair of the Membership Committee, Member of the Board of Directors, and Board Liaison to the Student Engagement, Membership, Administration, and Recognition Committees. She currently serves as Senior Advisor for the Recognition Committee and Vice Chair of the Program Committee.

Stephanie earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Central Missouri and a Master of Business Administration from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.