The objectives of the Program are to build a sense of team among CSMFO members, improve professional advancement opportunities, and offer a fuller understanding of everything CSMFO offers its members. These objectives are accomplished by bringing a diverse group of members from across the State together to network with each other.

Anticipated topics include networking, career path planning, tools for improving your relationship with your City Manager/General Manager, hot topics relevant finance professionals, and ways toget more satisfaction out of your personal and professional accomplishments.

But most importantly, it will be an opportunity to meet other finance professionals throughout California and (hopefully) make meaningful connections!

The program runs from May to February, with meetings once a month, lasting 60 minutes via Zoom. In addition to time spent in the monthly meeting, Members will have about 1 hour of assignments each month. Participants will need a private space to attend the Zoom meetings with their cameras and microphones turned on. Applicants should have their supervisor’s support prior to applying to the program. The Cohort Program is organized and lead by prior Cohort participants who volunteer to arrange topics and speakers. Therefore, by applying for the Cohort Program you are making a commitment to make every effort to attend all meetings and complete all assigned tasks.

Ideal applicants would like to grow their professional network, gain a greater understanding of relationships within government, learn moreabout CSMFO, and most importantly: have fun! There is no prescribed years of experience or position level required to participate in the Program, but having a mindset that focuses on growth and relationships is helpful to get the most out of this program. The more you engage the Cohort, the more you will get out of it!

Eligibility

This program is available to active CSMFO members.

Program Cost

There is no additional cost to participate in the cohort program. It is a membership benefit of CSMFO.

Applications for the 2025 Cohort Program are closed, please check back in February 2026 for details of next years’ program.