FIRST SELECTMAN APPOINTS MARIA PIRES DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Herbst describes Pires as “conscientious, dedicated and hard working”
TRUMBULL - - First Selectman Timothy M. Herbst on Monday announced the appointment of Maria Pires as Director of Finance for the Town of Trumbull. Pires has served as Acting Director of Finance since Herbst took office on December 7th of last year. Before being appointed Acting Director of Finance, Ms. Pires served as Assistant Finance Director the last 10 years. As Finance Director, Ms. Pires will be the chief financial officer for the Town of Trumbull and its 135 million dollar budget.
Herbst indicated that after going through the budget process with Pires, he was convinced by her work that she was the ideal person for the job. “Maria was required to step in under very trying circumstances,” Herbst said. “Not only did she have to deal with a new administration, but she also had to deal with a very tough budget environment that was seriously impacted by a severe national recession. Maria didn’t walk away from the challenge, she welcomed it. She’s ready to lead the Finance Department and I am proud to appoint her.”
Although Herbst began the process of seeking applications for the position, he said after going through the budget process with Pires, he was convinced that she was the ideal candidate for the position. “When I came into office, we were faced with a $3 million dollar revenue shortfall over the course of the next two years. Despite being dealt a very tough hand, we were able to hold the increase in expenditures to less than 1% and we were able to hold the overall increase to less than 2%. This was due in large measure to Maria’s efforts of cost containment and consolidations.”
Herbst further indicated that Pires has the respect of all Town employees, most especially those that work in the Trumbull Finance Department. “Maria has steadily climbed the ranks because she is conscientious, dedicated and hard working,” Herbst said. “Further, she is completely apolitical. She has served both Republican and Democratic administrations because she stays focused on doing the best job possible on behalf of the Trumbull taxpayers. She brings a level of continuity and objectivity that is needed in government now more than ever.” Town Treasurer John Ponzio, also elected this past November, offered praise over the selection of Pires as Finance Director. “As a former corporate comptroller, CFO and CEO, I believe Maria Pires is just what the Town needs in a Finance Director in these difficult economic times. She cares deeply about the Town of Trumbull. During these last 2 1/2 months, Maria has demonstrated sound leadership of the Finance Department. Further, she has the respect of all other Town department heads. In my opinion, she will work tirelessly for the best interests of our Town with her financial acumen, integrity and leadership.”
The announcement of Pires as Finance Director follows the First Selectman’s appointment last Friday of John Marisilio as the new Director of Public Works. By Charter, the First Selectman appoints the Director of Finance and the Director of Public Works.
Pires, a resident of Monroe, came to the United States from Portugal when she was 12 years old. She grew up in Bridgeport, where she later graduated from Central High School. She attended Sacred Heart University, where she graduated with a degree in Finance. Before joining the Town of Trumbull in 2000 as Assistant Finance Director, Pires worked for 19 years in private sector accounting.
For additional comment, First Selectman Timothy M. Herbst can be reached at (203) 452-5006