Mayor Sylvester Turner announced Tuesday the appointment of Will Jones as interim Finance Director for the City of Houston.

He will replace Tantri Erlinawati-Emo who is leaving municipal government for a role in the nonprofit sector.

Jones is a finance leader with 18 years of experience in budget management, process improvement, financial analysis, and long-range forecasting.

He has served the City of Houston since 2004, most recently as Deputy Director for the Financial Planning and Analysis Division with the City’s Finance Department where he oversaw the development of the City’s annual operating budget totaling $5.7 billion.

“Will Jones is a great fit for this interim role. He has effectively led the development of the annual operating budget for our City for the past five years,” said Mayor Turner. “I look forward to working with him to ensure that the City’s financial standing remains strong as we continue to meet the priorities of our city.”

As deputy director, Jones was also responsible for the City’s long-range financial outlook and oversight of the City’s energy contracts including electricity and natural gas. He has held various finance positions within the City of Houston’s Finance Department and has also worked in the Information Technology Department, Administration and Regulatory Affairs Department and the Houston Airports System.

Jones graduated from Sam Houston State University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on management information systems and finance.

The Director of Finance is responsible for monitoring and improving the financial functions of the City through sound fiscal planning, reporting and management.

Will Jones appointment is effective July 15, 2022.