Newsletter

California JPIA Celebrates Habib Ali’s 10^th Anniversary

Financial decisions that support the California JPIA pool are often made behind the scenes, yet they help shape the programs, services, and long-term stability that benefit member agencies. Behind those daily financial operations is Accountant Habib Ali, who celebrates his 10th anniversary with the California JPIA in October 2026. From processing accounts payable during the pandemic to helping develop multi-year organizational budgets, Ali ensures that the Authority’s financial operations run smoothly, supporting member communities.

Read More

After earning a degree in business administration with a concentration in finance, real estate, and law from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Ali worked in accounting for the City of Artesia before joining the California JPIA in 2016 as an accounting specialist.

He was promoted to accountant in October 2024, and continues to find joy in his work. “The most rewarding part of my job is knowing that the work we do helps our members better serve their communities,” said Ali. “While accounting often happens behind the scenes, it plays a role in nearly every decision an organization makes. After processing thousands of invoices over the past decade, I have developed a deeper appreciation for the work happening on the ground and the ways the Authority supports its members.”

Throughout his decade with the Authority, Ali has contributed to significant operational improvements. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he maintained the accounts payable systems to ensure continuous financial operations. He later helped evaluate, prepare, and implement the Sage Intacct accounting system to enhance department workflows.

Following his promotion to accountant, his role expanded to include generating annual contribution and property invoices for members and assisting in the development of the 2026-27 and 2027-28 budgets. “The budgeting process allowed me to meet with every department, learn about their goals and operational needs, and better understand how each team contributes to serving our members,” said Ali. “It provided a unique perspective on the organization as a whole and reinforced how interconnected our work is.”

Ali’s commitment to public service extends beyond his daily responsibilities. Inspired by his upbringing and his father’s career in government service, Ali served as co-chair of the City of Cerritos Community Safety Committee from October 2023 to January 2025, advising the city on crime prevention, traffic, and pedestrian safety. Within the Authority, he has also fostered camaraderie among colleagues and member agencies by organizing digital scavenger hunts during the Risk Management Educational Forum in 2018 and 2022.

Finance Director Jason McBride praised Ali’s dedication and positive influence on the team.  “Habib brings incredible energy to our team, combined with genuine enthusiasm for taking on new challenges and applying his financial expertise,” said Finance Director Jason McBride. “His collaborative approach has made him a vital partner to every team he works with, and the collegiality and warmth he brings to the office truly enrich our organizational culture.”

Reflecting on his decade with the California JPIA, Ali attributes his professional growth to a supportive work environment and a willingness to adapt. “Looking back, what stands out most are the relationships I have built, the challenges we have overcome, and the opportunities I have been given,” said Ali. “I would like to thank the leadership team and my immediate supervisor, Jason, for believing in me and providing me with the opportunities to thrive at the Authority. Having that support makes coming into work a joy.”

The California JPIA congratulates Habib Ali on his 10^th anniversary and thanks him for ten years of dedicated service to the organization and its membership.

< Back to Full Issue Print Article