The City of West Plains has named Tona Bowen as its new finance director, bringing more than two decades of government finance, budgeting and administrative experience to the role. Bowen began her duties Tuesday.
Bowen succeeds Earlene Rich, who had served as finance director since July 2021.
Most recently, Bowen worked as a financial analyst for the City of Springfield, a position she held since 2018. In that role, she managed operating and capital budgets, revenue and expenditure forecasting, debt service, investments, federal grants and annual financial audits.
Her public service background includes serving as city administrator for Houston in Texas County, where she oversaw municipal operations, managed financial reporting, and implemented cash management and fund balance policies. She also previously worked as a financial services administrator with the Missouri Department of Transportation and held county and municipal government roles in Kern County, Calif., and Phoenix, Ariz.
"I'm excited to have Tona join a talented team of public servants," City Administrator Sam Anselm said. "Her experience and expertise in municipal finance will serve our citizens well to ensure we're continuing to use public funds to meet our community's needs."
Bowen holds a Master of Business Administration in finance from Western International University and a Bachelor of Science in accounting from the University of Phoenix.
"I am truly honored to step into the role of director of finance and to join this outstanding team," Bowen said. "Public service is deeply important to me, and I'm excited for the opportunity to support the community through strong, transparent and thoughtful financial stewardship. I am grateful for this opportunity and eager to get started."
As finance director, Bowen will oversee all municipal financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting and long-term financial planning.
