Dena Heald will serve as the City of Big Bear Lake’s new Director of Finance after being selected through a recruitment led by TS Talent Solutions (TSTS). The City worked closely with TSTS to identify a candidate with the expertise and vision to guide its financial operations.
Dena Heald brings extensive experience as a finance professional with a proven record of leadership in municipal government. She has held multiple positions in the City of Moreno Valley, including Chief Financial Officer/City Treasurer, Deputy Finance Director and Financial Operations Division Manager, where she managed complex financial operations, audits, budgets, internal controls and compliance programs. Known for her solution-focused approach and technical expertise, Dena excels in guiding teams, implementing process improvements and ensuring transparency in public finance. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from Chapman University. Dena will draw on her experience to support informed decision-making and guide the City of Big Bear Lake’s fiscal direction.
“We were seeking a Director of Finance who could not only strengthen the City’s financial foundation, but also lead with vision and a collaborative spirit,” said Big Bear Lake City Manager Erik Sund. “TS Talent Solutions helped us find a candidate who fits both our culture and understands the unique needs of our community. We’re excited to welcome Dena Heald to the team and look forward to the strong leadership she will bring.”
Executive Recruiter Christine Martin, Recruitment Coordinator Morgan Teruel and Assistant Recruitment Coordinator Sofia Gonzalez played a key role in guiding the City of Big Bear Lake through its recruitment. They developed a customized recruitment brochure that highlighted the City’s unique mountain community, vibrant resort setting and welcoming spirit. By showcasing what makes Big Bear Lake a remarkable place to live and work, the brochure helped convey the City’s character and appeal to candidates seeking professional growth and a balanced lifestyle. Beyond the brochure, the recruitment included close collaboration with City leadership to refine priorities, review and evaluate candidates and facilitate interviews to ensure the selected candidate was the right fit.
“Big Bear Lake’s unique character and dynamic environment made this an exciting recruitment,” said Christine Martin. “Every step of the process was designed to attract candidates who would fit the organizational culture and make a positive impact. We’re thrilled that the City chose a leader whose experience aligns perfectly with their goals and priorities.”
“I’m excited to join the City of Big Bear Lake and be part of the important work happening here,” said Dena Heald. “Serving the public has always been central to my career, and I’m thrilled to work alongside the leadership team in bringing the City’s vision to life. The guidance and support from TS Talent Solutions made the recruitment process smooth and engaging.”
About TS Talent Solutions
TS Talent Solutions is a California-based executive search and talent development organization focused on the local government sector. A division of Tripepi Smith, TS Talent Solutions leverages the expertise and digital acumen of its parent firm to deliver next-generation recruitment solutions for public agencies. The quest for talent never ends, but progress is made with TS Talent Solutions.
We’ve sourced talent for:
City of American Canyon, Town of Atherton, City of Bainbridge Island (WA), City of Bell, City of Commerce, City of Fairfield, City of Indian Wells, City of Indio, City of La Cañada Flintridge, City of Lomita, City of Manteca, City of Morro Bay, City of Needles, City of Palos Verdes Estates, City of Paramount, City of Pasco (WA), City of Rosemead, City of San Luis Obispo, City of Saratoga, City of Tracy, Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District, Humboldt County Association of Governments, Redwood Coast Energy Authority, Ventura Council of Governments, West County Wastewater District
We’ve developed strategic plans for:
City of Bellflower, City of Carpinteria, City of Cerritos, City of Foster City, City of Hercules, City of La Cañada Flintridge, City of Lomita, City of Westminster, Heartland Fire & Rescue