The former chief financial officer for Long Beach has been tapped by the city of Burbank to be the new financial services director. Robert Torrez was appointed to the position April 6 by City Manager Mary Alvord following a search process during which 15 candidates were considered during three interview panels. Torrez worked for Long Beach as that city’s chief financial officer from 1994 to 2004. He most recently was senior vice president of public finance with the Los Angeles office of Southwest Securities, Inc. “We’re very happy with how the recruitment turned out,” Alvord said. He has the credentials. He’s excited and we’re excited.” Torrez replaces Derek Hanway, the former financial services director who died in June from cancer. It’s been a difficult time for the city to have to replace a department head who had so much credibility, Alvord said. “We think Bob’s going to be a good fit,” Alvord said. “He’s a real team builder and likes to bring people along and mentor them.”
