Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Financial Management & Comptroller)

The Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Financial Management & Comptroller), often abbreviated as SAF/FM or simply Comptroller, is a senior civilian official within the United States Department of the Air Force. This individual reports directly to the Secretary of the Air Force and is responsible for all financial matters pertaining to the Air Force and Space Force.

The responsibilities of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Financial Management & Comptroller) are extensive and include:

• Budget Formulation and Execution: Developing and managing the Air Force and Space Force budgets, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and congressional appropriations. This involves overseeing the preparation of budget requests, justifying funding needs to Congress, and executing approved budgets efficiently and effectively.

• Accounting and Financial Reporting: Ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting, adhering to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and other relevant regulations. This includes managing accounting systems, overseeing audits, and providing financial analysis to support decision-making.

• Financial Management Policy and Oversight: Establishing and enforcing financial management policies and procedures across the Air Force and Space Force. This involves developing guidance on topics such as resource allocation, internal controls, and risk management.

• Cost Estimating and Analysis: Providing cost estimates and analysis to support acquisition programs and other initiatives. This includes developing cost models, analyzing cost data, and providing recommendations to improve cost effectiveness.

• Program Management Oversight: Monitoring the financial aspects of major acquisition programs to ensure they are executed within budget and on schedule. This involves reviewing program budgets, tracking expenditures, and identifying potential cost overruns.

• Civilian and Military Personnel Management: Providing oversight of the financial aspects related to civilian and military personnel, including pay, benefits, and travel expenses.

The Assistant Secretary of the Air Force (Financial Management & Comptroller) plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial health and accountability of the Air Force and Space Force, enabling them to effectively carry out their missions. The position requires extensive expertise in financial management, budgeting, accounting, and related disciplines. The office is staffed by a team of financial professionals who work to support the Assistant Secretary in carrying out these responsibilities.