The City of Creve Coeur is pleased to announce the appointment of Joan Leary, CPFO, CEBS, as its next finance director, effective May 4, 2026.
Leary brings more than two decades of progressive municipal finance and executive leadership experience to Creve Coeur. She has served as director of finance for the City of Town and Country, Mo., where she led all core governmental accounting and financial operations, including budget development, revenue forecasting, audit coordination and financial reporting. In addition, she oversaw risk management, insurance programs and key human resources functions.
Throughout her career, Leary has demonstrated a strong commitment to financial excellence and transparency. She has played a key role in developing award-winning budgets and financial reports, strengthening internal controls, modernizing policies and improving organizational efficiency. Her work has contributed to multiple recognitions from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), including Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards and Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) honors.
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Prior to her role in Town and Country, Leary served in several senior leadership positions with the City of Webster Groves, Mo., including director of finance and administration, assistant city manager and interim city manager. She has also held finance leadership roles with the cities of Chesterfield, Ferguson, Wildwood and Glendale, building a broad base of experience across diverse municipal organizations.
“Joan brings extensive experience in municipal finance and a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and long-term financial stewardship,” said Mayor Robert Hoffman. “Her ability to lead complex budgeting, reporting, and audit processes, along with her expertise in investments, risk management, and organizational leadership, will be invaluable as we continue to maintain Creve Coeur’s strong financial position.”
Leary succeeds Lori Obermoeller, who is retiring after a 32-year career in municipal government finance, including nine years with the City of Creve Coeur. Notably, Leary began her municipal career with the City of Glendale over two decades ago, where she was mentored by Obermoeller for the role of finance officer.
“I am honored to join the City of Creve Coeur as finance director and am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community,” said Leary. “I look forward to working with city leadership and the entire Creve Coeur team to continue the lasting legacy of professional municipal management and fiscal responsibility that reflects a deep commitment to long-term financial health and high-quality public services.”
In addition to her municipal service, Leary currently serves as chair of the board of trustees for the Missouri Local Government Employees Retirement System (LAGERS). Leary holds a Master of Business Administration from Iowa State University and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Central Missouri. She is a Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO), Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) and is currently completing requirements for her Accredited Fiduciary (AF) designation.
