Las Cruces finance director gets national honor for ‘exceptional contributions’

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of Las Cruces’ finance director has received a national honor recognizing “exceptional contributions to public finance and local government service,” the City said.

Finance Director Lesley Doyle was selected by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) to receive the organization’s “Recognition for Outstanding Public Service.”

The award recognizes Doyle’s leadership during a critical financial period for the City.

She stepped into the role of finance director as the City’s FY25 audit identified a projected beginning balance shortfall of more than $10 million in a community of nearly 120,000 residents, the City said.

Doyle led a coordinated effort to communicate the financial situation clearly to City departments, executive leadership, and the City Council, while working with the budget team to close the gap without reducing essential services.

Josie Trevino, assistant finance director, credited Doyle with building a culture of trust and collaboration between the Finance Department and other City departments from the beginning of her tenure.

Doyle came to municipal government after a career in public education, transitioning from a school district into City finance leadership.

“In her first year, she met the challenge with confidence, emphasizing open communication, transparency, and proactive problem-solving. Her leadership has helped strengthen relationships across the organization while fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture within the Finance Department,” the City of Las Cruces said.

“The balance of technical skill and genuine care for people is what makes Lesley’s leadership unique,” Trevino said.

The GFOA has published Doyle’s recognition on its website, and her story will also be highlighted during the upcoming GFOA newsletter and highlighted at the annual GFOA conference.