The City of Rancho Palos Verdes last week announced the promotion of Interim Director of Finance Vina D. Ramos to permanent director of finance.
Ramos began her new position on November 20, though she has been leading the department following the departure of former Director of Finance Trang Nguyen, who left the City in May to hold the same position in the City of Orange.
She brings 20 years of experience in city government and municipal finance, including eight years in Rancho Palos Verdes.
“I am very excited to take on the position of Director and am grateful to RPV for this opportunity,” Ramos said. “I also look forward to continuing to serve the community along with the outstanding RPV team. I feel fortunate to be surrounded by hardworking and supportive colleagues and City leaders. As I have the past eight years, I will stay committed to safeguarding the City’s finances and bringing forward ideas that will both sustain and improve the City’s strong fiscal health.” 
Ramos joined the City in 2015 as an accounting supervisor, overseeing day-to-day accounting activities, annual audits, compensation reports and the City’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports. She played a key role in updating the City’s internal controls, finance policies, migrating to the new financial system and leveraging other financial tools for improved operational efficiency. Ramos was promoted to deputy director of finance in 2020.
Under her leadership, the City received its first Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association in 2023. Ramos has prepared complex financial analyses to help City leaders make informed decisions on major projects, including the revitalization of Ladera Linda Community Park and the Civic Center Master Plan.
“I have had the opportunity to work with Vina since 2015, and to watch her rise through the ranks to the position of Finance Director speaks volumes of her capabilities and skills,” said Rancho Palos Verdes City Manager Ara Mihranian. “I am thrilled that the City was able to promote from within the organization with someone who understands the City’s culture and community, which is especially important when it comes to financing and budget forecasting.”
Before joining RPV, Ramos worked for the City of El Segundo for 12 years, holding positions as accounting supervisor for finance, senior analyst for recreation and parks and management analyst for the fire department.
Ramos studied at Cal State Long Beach for her Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting and is completing a Master of Public Administration degree in public sector management and leadership from Cal State Northridge.
About the City of Rancho Palos Verdes
The City of Rancho Palos Verdes is located on a coastal peninsula overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the South Bay of Los Angeles County. Incorporated in 1973, the City is home to 42,000 residents, 7 1/2 miles of coastline, a 1,500-acre nature preserve and hundreds more acres of open space. Residents and visitors enjoy expansive ocean views and ample opportunities for recreation, including golfing, hiking, beach access and whale watching. Notable landmarks and points of interest include the Wayfarers Chapel designed by Lloyd Wright, the Point Vicente Lighthouse, the Point Vicente Interpretive Center, Terranea Resort, the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve and Trump National Golf Club.