County Executive Metzger Appoints CJ Rioux as Commissioner of Finance
Published on October 03, 2025
KINGSTON, NY - Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger today announced the appointment of CJ Rioux, CPA, as the County’s new Commissioner of Finance. Rioux brings nearly two decades of experience in public finance, accounting, and administration, including extensive service in Ulster County government and the State University of New York system.
“There are few people with the years of experience and depth of County finance and accounting expertise than CJ Rioux, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to appoint him to this leadership position,” said County Executive Jen Metzger. “He will be a careful steward of County finances, bringing a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to financial management that will serve Ulster County well. I want to thank Deputy Commissioner Max Cordella for serving as Acting Commissioner in this transitional time, and I am confident the County is in good hands with this dream team of finance professionals.”
Rioux most recently served as Assistant Vice President for Administration/Controller at SUNY New Paltz, where he oversaw departments including Accounting Services, Purchasing, Internal Controls, and Facilities Contract Management. Prior to that, he held multiple leadership roles at SUNY Ulster, including Dean for Administration and Acting Vice President for Administrative Services, where he managed budget development, capital projects, labor negotiations, and campus operations.
From 2012 to 2021, Rioux served as Deputy Commissioner of Finance for Ulster County, where he was responsible for accounting and financial reporting for the County and its component units, prepared the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, and supervised a staff of more than 25 employees. He also served as Acting Commissioner of Finance during his tenure.
Rioux began his career in public accounting at Sedore & Company, CPA’s, PC, specializing in municipal and nonprofit auditing and consulting. He holds both a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Public Accountancy from SUNY New Paltz, and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in New York State.
“It is an honor to serve as Ulster County's Commissioner of Finance,” said Rioux. “I am committed to ensuring transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility while working to protect taxpayers’ dollars and strengthen the financial foundation for our County for years to come. I look forward to working with County Executive Metzger, the Legislature, and our dedicated staff to ensure strong financial stewardship and transparency for the residents of Ulster County.”
Rioux lives in Hurley and is an active member of several professional organizations, including the New York State Government Finance Officers Association and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants.