Bhama Cairns has over 40 years of work experience in various financial roles. Bhama started their career as an Auditor at Ernst & Young in 1978 and later joined Kent County as an Internal Auditor. In this role, they performed financial, compliance, and program audits and implemented improvements that resulted in increased efficiency and cash flow.
After their time at Kent County, Bhama worked as a Financial Analyst at the Reformed Church in America. Bhama then joined the City of Rockwood as Deputy Treasurer, where they established internal controls, oversaw financial functions, and reduced debt.
Bhama furthered their career as Deputy City Manager, Finance Director, and Treasurer at the City of Wayland. During their tenure there, they successfully managed finance and treasury operations, increased the general fund balance by $1.4 million, and reduced debt.
In 2013, Bhama was recruited by the Governor Appointed Emergency Manager to serve as the Controller for the City of Hamtramck. Bhama facilitated the city's financial recovery and successfully brought it out of receivership.
Currently, Bhama is working as the Deputy Finance Director for the City of Kentwood. With their expertise in financial management and compliance, they contribute to the city's financial stability and growth.
Bhama Cairns is an individual with a strong educational background in various fields. Bhama holds a Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) degree with a focus on Local Government Administration from Western Michigan University. Bhama also obtained a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Accountancy from Calvin University.
Bhama Cairns further pursued their education in the field of Management Accounting and obtained the designation of Chartered Management Accountant from The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (U.K.). In addition, they hold a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree with a specialization in Business Administration and Management, General, from Calvin University.
Apart from their academic achievements, Bhama Cairns has also obtained several certifications. Bhama is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Michigan. Bhama is also a Chartered Global Management Accountant and a Chartered Management Accountant, both from The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants in the United Kingdom. These certifications were obtained in 2021 and 2023, respectively.
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