City of Walla Walla hires Darlene Wilson as its next Finance Director
The City of Walla Walla is announcing the hiring of Darlene Wilson as the City’s next Finance Director. Wilson will officially begin her new role on Oct. 26, 2026.
“I am thrilled to welcome Darlene to the City of Walla Walla team. Her experience with conducting audits and preparing budgets will assist the City in maintaining its fiscal health, and her leadership approach will be an asset to the Finance Department,” City Manager Elizabeth Chamberlain said.
Wilson comes to the City from Whitman College, having served as Assistant Vice President for Finance and Controller since June 2021. Wilson has a background in accounting, budgeting, financial statements, and leadership roles, and holds Certified Public Accountant licenses in Washington and Oregon.
“I was born and raised near the Walla Walla Valley so this is home for me,” Wilson said. “I’ve watched Walla Walla change in remarkable ways over my lifetime, becoming a more vibrant, confident community while still maintaining that friendly, small-town feel that longtime residents love. As the wine and tourist economy has grown, we’ve also seen thoughtful work on infrastructure and financial planning that positions the City well for the future. That kind of positive change only happens when the community and City government work together.”
Wilson’s role as director of the Finance Department will include leading the 12-member department, which plays an integral role in preparing the City’s biennial budget, overseeing Utility Billing and being responsible for the annual financial and accountability audits.
“I’m honored to step into this role. The City of Walla Walla has a proven track record of strong financial reporting with a highly capable finance team,” Wilson said. “I’m excited to join the City’s talented Finance team and work alongside a dedicated leadership group that is deeply committed to serving the Walla Walla community. Together, we’ll continue to be careful stewards of the City’s financial resources.”
After Oct. 26, Wilson may be contacted at dwilson@wallawallawa.gov or 509-527-4423.
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