Zack Zithisakthanakul, CPA
Professional License & Education
Certified Public Accountant, California #149727
Biola University, Master of Professional Accountancy
Relevant Work Experience
City of Huntington Beach Huntington Beach, CA
Acting Chief Financial Officer December 2025 – Present Successfully led the development and adoption of the City’s fiscal year 2026/27 operating and capital budget, coordinating with executive management, departments, Finance Commission, and City Council. Served as a member of the City’s labor negotiations team, leading financial costing and fiscal impact analysis for multiple bargaining units.
Advised the City Manager, executive leadership, Finance Commission, and City Council on fiscal policy, budget strategy, debt management, reserve planning, and other complex financial matters. Managed the Finance Department’s core operations, including budget, accounting, payroll, accounts payable, procurement, business license, and utility billing.
Oversaw and implemented citywide financial initiatives and policy updates. Directed Finance Department operations during a period of executive transition while maintaining continuity of financial services and strategic initiatives.
Prepared and presented complex financial analyses, staff reports, and recommendations to the City Council and Finance Commission.
Assistant Chief Financial Officer August 2025 – Present Direct and oversee citywide financial operations including budget, business license, payroll, accounting and financial reporting to ensure compliance with GASB, GAAP, and State/Federal regulations. Advise the Interim Chief Financial Officer, City Manager, and executive leadership on long-term financial planning, fiscal policy, and strategic use of resources.
Lead the development of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), budget documents, and financial presentations to Finance Commission.
Manage internal and external audits, coordinate responses to audit findings, and ensure implementation of corrective actions.
Oversee development and monitoring of city-wide financial policies, internal control systems, and process improvements to enhance efficiency and transparency.
Supervise and mentor division managers and processional staff across accounting, budget, payroll, procurement, and accounts payable/receivable division.
Finance Manager August 2022 – August 2025
Led the accounting division, supervising a team of seven staff across accounting and accounts payable/receivable staff.
Managed preparation of complex financial reports including the ACFR, PAFR, and State Controller’s Annual Report.
Oversaw journal entries, reconciliation, and accounting for debt issuance, debt refunding, capital assets, and other high-level transactions.
Ensured integrity of the general ledger and monitored modifications to the chart of accounts. Conducted internal control reviews and collaborated across departments to implement GASB 87 lease accounting.
Principal Finance Analyst June 2021 – August 2022
Performed advanced financial analysis, reporting, and audit preparation for the Finance Department. Supported accounting system integrity and implementation of new reporting standards. Prepared journal entries, reconciliations, and internal control assessments. Promoted to Finance Manager in August 2022 for strong performance and leadership.
Haskell & White LLP Irvine, CA
Experienced Associate, Audit January 2021 – April 2021
Davis Farr LLP Irvine, CA
Senior Auditor January 2018 – December 2020
Conrad LLP Lake Forest, CA
Junior Audit Associate May 2017 – December 2017