Meet the Republican: John Leary

"Meet the Candidates" is a feature on Southington Patch designed to help you get to know your local candidates before you take to the polls this November. Each profile was submitted directly by the candidate.

Take a moment to review each profile so you can be informed and prepared when you go to the polls on Nov. 5, 2013.

This week, we are looking at the Board of Finance candidates:

Name: John J. Leary
Age: 46
Party, Board Seeking: Republican Candidate for Board of Finance
Family information: Married to Karen Matthews Leary 21 years, 2 Children - Lauren (18) Freshman, University of St. Joseph, Matthew (15) Sophomore, St. Paul Catholic High School
Occupation, if applicable: Director of Consolidations Accounting, Tronox
Political Experience: Served 4 years on Board of Finance, currently as Chairman.
Other Experience: Eagle Scout and Boy Scout Leader 35 years, Saint Dominic Parish Finance Committee, numerous other aspects of service to church, community and Scouting.

Why did you run for office?
I feel I have a duty to perform community service and a skill set to do it effectively. I have a unique skill-set that has developed over 18+ years of managing accounting staff, systems, processes and operations in billion dollar multi-national corporations with complex organizational structures. I also have a strong desire and history of performing community service beginning in my youth through Boy Scouts and continuing ever since.

If elected, what would be your primary areas of focus?
Increased collaboration with all stakeholders (Taxpayers, Citizens, Town Staff "department heads and staff", other boards & commissions)

What do you feel is the biggest issue facing Southington today?
Southington is facing both an aging infrastructure and a growing community. Tending to both properly, with long term solutions, will cost money while our taxpayers have varying willingness and ability to pay. So the key is proper prioritization and moderation as we move forward with proper solutions.

What skills do you have that you could bring to the community?
First and foremost I am an Eagle Scout. Professionally I am an accountant and financial analyst. During my career I have gained experience as a manager in both manufacturing cost accounting and later Internal Audit. I have served in two large corporations as Director of Consolidations Accounting where I work globally to ensure accounting is performed in a consistent, timely, automated and accurate manner. Collaboration is a huge component of my job.

(Optional) Anything else you would like to share?
Contact Info - JLeary@Southington.org or Home (860) 621-5960.

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